Is it Worth upgrading the Electronics?

Since you already own the engines, it seems like a no brainer to me. A pair of PS3 kits can be had for $360 if you shop around, less if you join the MTH club. Add 40 bucks for detail parts. $2000 or $400??? 

Pete

And your locomotives will be the only one just like the one you upgraded and detailed.

Pa Horse Shoe Curve,

These guys are giving you the correct skinny, I even up Graded an original Lionel Tin Plate 249 with ERR.  Up Grade it if you already own it!  The new technology is fantastic.

PCRR/Dave

I don't go into all the detailing you do but I still say yes it would be worth it. I do ERR to some of mine as I look at it like this. If it's an engine I like why go spend $400 - $500 when I can do what I want for a little over $200. I want to get a 4-6-6-4 or 4-8-8-4 or something like that. I can't even start to afford one but if I can pick up a used PS1 for ( I have had a chance but didn't have the $ to spare at the moment ) From $250 - $400 I will jump on it if the $ are there and convert it to TMCC with cruise and sound . 

So Yes definitely it is worth doing it!

Okay while we're talking upgrade, can someone explain PS1 to me so I understand it. I understand change the battery before using. Is there anything else I need to know, also will any 9 volt will do for a temp. I know I need to get ( I think it's a ) BRC for it. 

Bill,

The P1 engines were really a conventional type engine, with some added sound. I sold all of mine when P2 1st hit the market.  They can now be upgraded however, and yes IMO if you are going to keep the P1 engine have GGG or Guns upgrade it.  Definitely install a BCR for best running results and to eliminate low battery problems, especially if you do not plan to upgrade.

Hope this helps a little.

PCRR/Dave

I think it's a good move, especially if you can get the trainphone antenna and the marker lights correct.

Pine Creek Railroad posted:

Bill,

The P1 engines were really a conventional type engine, with some added sound. I sold all of mine when P2 1st hit the market.  They can now be upgraded however, and yes IMO if you are going to keep the P1 engine have GGG or Guns upgrade it.  Definitely install a BCR for best running results and to eliminate low battery problems, especially if you do not plan to upgrade.

Hope this helps a little.

PCRR/Dave

Dave if I upgraded I would install TMCC from ERR as Thats the control system I presently have. But for time being if I win one I will just put a battery in it to insure all is fine. By the way if it has a BCR in it do I just turn it on and let it sit . And if so for how long?

rtraincollector posted:

By the way if it has a BCR in it do I just turn it on and let it sit . And if so for how long?

About one minute does the trick.

To join in the fun here, I bought an MTH premier PRR decapod years ago that had some lurching problems and a constant squeak.  I eventually had ERR installed and the magnet/reed switch chuff added to a tender wheel and it's a sweet runner instead of a shelfie.  I also had an ERR upgrade for a PRR consolidation that had servere lurching problems. Then I made the chuff modification. Thanks to GGG I finally got my K-Line B6 upgraded to get the speed perfect for switching.  

thanks all

Upgrading a PS1 loco is like getting a completely new loco. I just had my PS1 Premier Blue Comet upgraded to PS3 (Thanks, Marty Fitzhenry!) and the difference in performance is off the charts.  Go for it.