Unused PS-2 Engines and Batteries

1) yes

2) you should charge the batteries if you are running conventional. If they're 5 volt, it maybe better to see what you have before charging. The 3 volt should take a charge. Did you buy a charger?

If you run with the DCS system, the engine may well run as it charges. It won't add correctly to the remote if the battery is dead. So you could run each one for awhile before trying to add it to the system, or you could add to address #1 and then manually edit the address after it charges up.

Thank you Joe.  I run DCS and I do have a MTH charger, but I don't think it has a fully charged indicator.  Is there a way to tell if the battery (both 5V and 3V) are charged?  Also, can try to operate without damaging the board?  Thanks.

can try to operate without damaging the board?

Yes, you can

Just get the engine started making sounds, in conventional or under DCS, and immediately cut track power. If sounds persist for at least 6 seconds, the battery is fine. If not, charge the battery until sounds do persist for at least 6 seconds.

However, if sounds cut out immediately and the engine has a 5 volt board, do not operate the engine. Instead, swap out the battery for a new, fully-charged 8.4 volt rechargeable one.

Is there a way to tell if the battery (both 5V and 3V) are charged? 

By doing the sound test described above.

Thank you very much, Barry.  I will do exactly as you describe.  Your help, and that of Joe, is most appreciated.  Thanks again,

Steve