Engine won't run in conventional-but it will run with DCS.

 I want to say battery problem but there is no battery with proto-3,  A capacitor takes the place of the battery so I would try the same test.. how long do sounds continue on after track power is turned off. Now some say the sounds don't continue on as long with proto 3  and  I don't know for sure... I'm guessing at least 5 or 6 seconds.

I guess there's the possibility the engine is locked in neutral (rather then refusing to leave neutral) So I would  a conventional factory reset (1W and 5 bells)  If that doesn't help ,perhaps a factory reset in command. This  should over ride any convectional lock. However if this is a capacitor problem you really can't do a factory reset and have it stick with the engine.......... How long do sounds continue on after track power is shut off.

Scott.

Most likely it's a defective Supercapacitor or its charging circuit.

Just like PS2 engines cannot get out of neutral with a dead or weak battery, PS3 engines need a functioning Supercapacitor for the same reasons.

What kind of transformer are you using? I'm thinking another possibility is that if the transformer is electronic, it may be pulsing at lower voltages and not charging the capacitor properly.

What kind of transformer are you using? I'm thinking another possibility is that if the transformer is electronic, it may be pulsing at lower voltages and not charging the capacitor properly.

The museum had both Lionel CW80 and MTH Z1000's neither made a difference.

Scott Smith

I would agree that it is locked in neutral. I had this happen on 2 of my units, one PS2 and the other PS3. You should be able to unlock it using an approved conventional transformer using the unlock sequence used in the manual.

Did you try the battery Capacitor test?? how long do sounds continue after power is turned off. A charged engine is a must for changing or resetting anything and have it stick.

Scott,  I had the same problem with a PS2 RS-1 awhile back at the club layout (Z4000). Couldn't get it out of neutral. Back at home with DCS it ran fine.  Don't have an answer...

Scott,

With you supporting MTH almost single-handed, I'm surprised Mike hasn't come to your house with a replacement loco.

Fred

Huh.

I have a 3rd Rail NYC Mercury K-5 Pacific that will run only under TMCC, but won't

get out of neutral in Conventional. I don't really care; I discovered it accidentally.