This has probably been beaten to death, with all kinds of opinions, but I would like to ask again and get some facts, because whatever I read in the past, I have forgotten. This time I will copy into notepad and save the info.
Regarding the 9V, I have some that are dying. I know I can use regular 9's as a temp fix, but there are problems long term...they are not meant to be charged. If there were a battery door, I would use them no more than I get to run my trains, but regular are out since it is a pain to take the engine shell or tender body off. I am sure most of you do not do that either.
So....there are other "9V" rechargeables that resemble the MTH 8.4V 120 mAh batt, but no direct replacements around me. RS guy looked, did not have any and had none in their catalog he said. That said, will other 9v rechargeables from Wmart or other locales work/be compatible with the charging system in the PS 1 and PS 2 engines? Anyone have the facts on that one? Info is appreciated, and I may not be the only one who needs to know.
If the answer is no, is MTH ($9 or $10 each I think) the next logical source for batts or do most of you have other sources? That would be appreciated also.
Next, BCR. I know what they are and what they do. Cost around $25 and only are bought once I believe. What is the source most of you use for those? I can swing to those, but this is the first time in about 7 - or more- years I have needed to replace the 9V. I may be just as well off with a battery instead of the BCR. I think I have about 2 PS1's (the chip scrambled and was replaced years ago, it was the Chessie work train set) and maybe 5 PS2 engines. Two of those have the rect charge port instead of the round one. I think that means they are not the 9V batts but the other newer ones that resemble AAA if I remember what I read in past posts.
I definitely have 2 engines in need of a new power source. Pull the voltage they shut down, and charging the batt directly or via overnight track power does not keep the batt full. It dies in a day.
Any any all replies are appreciated....and kept confidential. No one else will read this!
Thanks, Greg (I am posting this on the 3 Rail forum as well since not everyone frequents all forums on a regular basis.
