Can't Program Lionel Sharknose B Unit

Pennsy JohnnieOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

I just picked up a new Sharknose Superbass B Unit (2133279) and am having an issue programming it using Command Control. I have the two AA Units, as well as the motorized B unit that's part of this set, and they all work fine. When I place the unit on the track and power up in Program position, the legacy sounds come on (sounds great), but entering new engine number (I'm using 32), followed by "Set" on the Cab 2 doesn't do anything, and the unit doesn't seem to respond to any command. I realize this unit isn't powered, but I'd expect that you can still turn it on or off from the remote. Then, I tried adding it as part of a Train consist, and it just sits there and "rumbles away" on its own, with no dialog or horn / whistle effects (although those switches are turned "on"). Any thoughts as to what I may be doing wrong?? The unit is under warranty, so I can send back to Lionel, but that obviously involves waiting for them to repair, so thought I'd start by asking here first.

I also noticed that on the sides of both boxes for the B Unit (and on the Lionel site), it indicates that the units are supposed to have rear electrocouplers, but in looking at them (and attempting to engage the one on the motorized B unit that I've been able to program), they don't seem to actually have that! I was hoping to have the flexibility to use either as an A-B-B-A consist or split into 2 A-B trains and run that way. Obviously, to do that, it would be beneficial to have rear electrocouplers, as both say they should have them.

Really appreciate any insight anyone has on either issue. Thanks so much!

7/22/222:09 PM

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GweedoOGR Forum Member

Don't know but maybe the run program switch is wired wrong. Might try programing the b-unit with the switch in the run mode. Then put in program mode to run engine. Other than that maybe try to do a engine reset as shown in the manual.

7/24/222:45 PM

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Pennsy JohnnieOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Thanks for the reply!! I found another post on this forum that talked about unplugging and re-seating the connector that plugs into the program run switch. I tried that, and it WORKED!! Must have been poor QC at the factory, which unfortunately happens.

now, the big question remains… where is the rear electrocoupler that the web site and side of box both tout this unit has?!? After successfully programming, I tried both F/R uncoupling controls on by Cab 2 remote, both in engine mode, then once the B unit was included into a MU Train. Not seeing anything opening on the rear coupler. Do you think the omitted it on my piece?? Now THAT would be really poor QC!

Thanks again for response!!

7/24/223:28 PM

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gunrunnerjohnOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Turn if over and look, the coil coupler will be obvious. Once it's in the middle of an MU configuration, the coupler should not fire since only the trailing engine coupler works in that situation. Standing alone and using it's TMCC ID, the coupler should indeed fire.

7/24/223:43 PM

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Pennsy JohnnieOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Thank you Gunrunner for the response! I actually was hoping to have the flexibility to use as either an A-B-B-A, or just an A-B for shorter consists. Theoretically with all 4 units, you could have many design options, and even use the SuperBass unit with the "trailing A" unit that doesn't have sound. When I purchased, the B units were described as having "Rear Electrocoupler" which makes sense if they're operated as the last locomotive in consist. Looking at the attached though, I'm not seeing the coil coupler that you describe, so I think I've been "hoodwinked" by Lionel. Nice way to spend more money than necessary to get the 2 B units. From a power perspective, I would have been fine with the 2 A Units. Who can you believe if not the manufacturer?!? confused