Proto 2 and batteries

Ed, I don't know the consequences of running with old batteries but yes, you can simply install a BCR instead.  I have done so in all of my Proto 2 engines.

Thanks, Mike. I’ll do that.

Ed, BCRs last for years.  Is this a new engine, may already have a BCR  already installed... if purchased 2nd hand.  Almost all PS1 & 2 owners installed a BCR... Makes the sound and performance much better...........

If it is a 5v Proto 2 please check the speaker for flaking as well, if it looks like dust on the magnet - do not power up until you replace the speaker!

Jim

I installed a BCR on my premier PS-2 GP38-2. Works like a champ!

I install BCRs in all my PS1 and PS2 locomotives.

MELGAR

What a coincidence! I just pulled out a Milwaukee Road PS-2 Premier Bi-Polar that has been in the box since about 2009. I signed on to ask this very same question. It sounds like I need to go BCR shopping tomorrow.

Thanks, guys.

Jim

@Jim Sandman posted:

If it is a 5v Proto 2 please check the speaker for flaking as well, if it looks like dust on the magnet - do not power up until you replace the speaker!

Jim

to add,

If it's a later 3 volt PS2, I'd try it. Charge it though. Then do a test by killing power and see how long the sounds play.

It may cause different issues if the battery doesn't hold a charge. I would recommend having the external MTH charger and checking the battery after charging with that.

I have many engines that continue to operate with batteries over ten years old. It's just that they get undependable.

If an engine has issues, I always look at the battery first.

I've have had batteries fail early, that had a tough life. I bought them used and tried to guess at what happened to them. One engine of mine bought new, had long periods of no use and then the battery went early. I think it used to read a lower voltage around 2 volts if I remember correctly. Replaced it, and the engine has been fine ever since.