Re: Loco not moving

Nu2OscaleOGR Forum Member

Hello…I’m a newbie to the world of 2 rail O scale trains, and seek some help. I dabbled in some G scale, DECADES back, but never had to deal with switching options, (such as this DCC, DCS, etc) for operation….I had a CREST power source, tethered throttle, and I played trains..LOL.

I recently purchased a used, MTH Premier, 2 rail diesel locomotive from a mutual ‘friend’, who sent me a video of it running, with horn, bells, etc. all functioning.

My power source is a new MTH Z-4000, wired to Atlas 2 rail track. When I place the loco on my layout, and throttle it up, the unit powers on, and the lights activate. When I press the direction button, to initiate movement, the lights go out, turn back on, but no movement.

I’ve tried researching what may be a cause of this, but nothing very pliable, or comprehensive to limited knowledge of terminology. For reference, I have two, brand new, Atlas Premier, 2 rail, SD70ACe locos, and they function fine….operate just like my G scale units did…apply power, and off they go.

Any help or recommendations for a tutorial source will be greatly appreciated…..thanks

4 hours ago

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gunrunnerjohnOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

I suggest you post the exact model of engine you're having the problem with so we can better help you.

4 hours ago

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Nu2OscaleOGR Forum Member

@gunrunnerjohn posted:
I suggest you post the exact model of engine you're having the problem with so we can better help you.

Sorry about that, it’s a AC4400, and the box does indicate that it’s a Proto 2 model, if that helps.

4 hours ago

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Hot WaterOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBER

@Nu2Oscale posted:
Sorry about that, it’s a AC4400, and the box does indicate that it’s a Proto 2 model, if that helps.

An MTH Item Number might be more help.

3 hours ago

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Nu2OscaleOGR Forum Member

@Hot Water posted:
An MTH Item Number might be more help.

20-2787-2

3 hours ago

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Gerald JacksonOGR Forum Member

Check the DCC/DCS switch

2 hours ago

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Vernon BarryOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

@Nu2Oscale posted:
20-2787-2

I realize you are new to this so I'm going to point out some websites and a process for information. I am not saying don't ask here, I'm saying, in the interest of giving you the best help- self help is also a part of the total picture.

#1 use the MTH product website. All you have to do is google 20-2787-2, and the very first result is likely the MTH product page. https://mthtrains.com/20-2787-2

#2 under the support tab of the product page, is the manual for the engine.

https://mthtrains.com/sites/de...ction/20dl18507i.pdf

#3 Being a Protosound 2 engine, or in fact, most MTH PS1, PS2, and PS3 engines require a functioning battery or super capacitor energy storage inside the loco for proper conventional operation. The manual covers a fairly common sense test to see if this system is working as intended. You simply power the engine, wait for the sounds, and then cut power to the track. If the sounds instantly cut off- the system is NOT working. If the sounds keep going all the way to shutdown- that's a good indicator the battery or energy storage is working as intended.

#4 additional tips: Power the engine for at least 30-60 seconds and allow the full engine startup sounds to complete. This also serves to charge up the battery or capacitor. Ensure you completely drop power and do so long enough to be detected as an intentional change to switch from neutral to forward. Ensure when power is cut- the engine sounds continue for several seconds on into shutdown sounds. If the sounds are not continuing to play and cut off suddenly- that likely indicates a battery failure (this is a PS2 engine).

Also, the battery in this engine even being rechargeable- has a limited usable lifespan. Even sitting not used, the chemical battery degrades with time. You might need to replace it or minimally charge it and see if it holds a charge.