AS-16 Baldwin Proto 1 Question

After you get the 2 dings to you have idle sounds or does it go quiet?  Have you lowered the voltage after startup and BCR charge to less then 10V before trying to change direction?  PS-1 needs to be under 10V to leave the reset state.

If the above doesn't work what you want to do is follow your instructions (you can get a copy off MTH Website) and do a Reset 18.  If it is just locked out, that would clear it.  There are other faults that may have occurred, such as an ID issue.  That is why the sounds after start up is an important question.

Make sure you give the BCR a full 60sec to charge.  G

Wasn't some of the early Z series incompatible with early PS-1 engines?

Some early Z-750 transformers are not compatible with PS-1. They may damage the board(s). Try another transformer, especially a Lionel postwar transformer.

Chuck,  you are right, I missed the transformer type.  RD, The transformer won't "damage" the board, it may not function with it, but I have yet to see boards damaged by the transformer.  G

Hi Guys,

I have engine idle sounds after start up.

Thanks,

Jim

Makes sure voltage is less than 10 when trying to come out of reset.  I would use the throttle vice direction button. If still doesn't work, then try a pure sign wave transformer like a PW 1033.  G

If you have a BCR in the loco, put it on the track and power up to 12 volts. Let it charge for the minute or so necessary, then power it down until the sounds shut off completely. Then power up to 8-9 volts, let it idle for a few seconds then cycle the power off and on, should take off and run. Make sure you are using a postwar transformer or a Z4000. Z750 and Z1000 transformers are often incompatible with Protosounds locos, ironically. If it still doesn't work, it might need a chip swap, or a "make PS" chip treatment, even though it doesn't have the "three clanks of death". I have had good luck swapping a known good chip into the loco, steam or diesel, powering up the loco and running it a bit. Then put your original PS chip in the loco, and power it up as above. Very often the loco will start after the original chip is reinstalled. Don't ask me why, sometimes it works. If worst comes to worst, you need a new chip from MTH. These are still available even though MTH said they wouldn't support Protosounds after 2012. There is nothing wrong with Protosounds for those who like to run conventional locos.