@sinclair posted:I'd have to look for the details, but gunrunner John knows it, it's a bi-directional cap across the output on the TMCC Powermaster. Once I did that I could run all my MTH PS-1 locomotives all day long without issues. I just don't remember what the specs the cap needs to be, but it has to be bi-directional or else it'll burn up after a while. You just screw int eh leads the same time you screw in the track wires and you're set.
Thanks for the detailed response. What you're describing is the hardware fix.
The reason I asked is because there is also a software update that was applied to the older TPC design to add several MTH-related features, at least one of which has to do with ensuring that PS1 locomotives come out of the reset state (the state entered after powerup) successfully.
When Lionel bought the product line from IC Controls it's my understanding is that this update was being installed in current production before the transfer. It is definitely in the Lionel manufactured versions made afterwards.
And then there was a period after the transfer when some folks were apparently lucky enough to have their older IC Controls TPC's updated by IC Controls' Lou Kovach if they contacted him about it.
Click here for more details:
IC Controls TPC vs Lionel TPC | ANTHONY
I have several the early ones, including some that could benefit from Lou's update, if I can find out where to get it in today's world. In my opinion these are the most economical, because you can currently find them at lower prices.
Adding the hardware fix is only a slight roadblock. Getting Lou's update is probably a little harder.
Mike