Railsounds posted:We have done additional research on this question. It turns out that the very first run of Thomas remote engines is NOT compatible with the Universal Remote.
The first Thomas version has the same Lionel part number/SKU (6-18769 ) as later Thomas, which DO work with the Universal Remote. In order to determine if a given Thomas engine is compatible with the Universal remote, open the locomotive by removing two screws which can be accessed with a long-shaft philips screwdriver between the driving wheels and the frame. (During re-assembly, make sure the eye mechanism rod is aligned with Thomas’s eyes.)
If the PCB is green with the lettering "LT117-RX4," the Universal Remote will not work with this locomotive. If the PCB is blue, it WILL work with the Universal Remote.
We believe this is the only exception to our previous statement that the Universal Remote will work with ALL LionChief engines.
Thanks Rudy !! I'm the fellow with the first run Thomas. Is there a direct replacement PCB (i.e. drop in) I can purchase and install in my Thomas which will work with the Universal Remote V1.1 ? Also would it be necessary to return Thomas to the factory for channel selection given I presume the Universal Remote works with all channels ? My original Thomas remote has a factory installed resistor matrix for supporting one of three channel selections. Mine is channel 3.
