LionChief Remote and Engines

Remote is tied to that specific engine.

If the remote dies, do you toss the engine as well?

 

You can replace the remote.  You just order the one for that engine.

I figured that, I was being a bit facetious.  I still can't get over my disappointment that they didn't just do something like basic TMCC in these sets so you could integrate them into a larger layout and use your TMCC/Legacy system to control them.  I get the terrible feeling Lionel is slipping back into the MPC era with cheap junk!

Because you would need a command base to pull that off.  These are starter sets, period.  they can't even run in conventional.  This is a way to make a budget remote control set as a way to introduce kids to a more modern way of model railroading while keeping the price point within reason.

I guess my point is that MTH managed to put out sets at a similar price point and include the full command capability.  Even if they made a "basic" TMCC set that emulated the MTH DCS Remote Commander and included the command in the locomotive, they'd be way ahead, and so would the purchaser.  They're not that cheap compared to the competition, that's my point.

 

In any case, I doubt I'm going to change anyone's mind, so I'll move on.

A) The basic ps-2/ps3 controller requires that you reprogram the engine to factory defaults to go back to the starter set mode.

 

B) Think about DCS in "passive mode". Or better yet about the original demo mode where the trains were run directly off a laptop without any special interface, aka direct signal injection onto the track.

 

C) If you want to see sticker shock, watch what happens when mom or dad takes the non functioning starter set engine in and they learn that it will cost almost as much to fix as they paid for the original set.

 

MTH keeps the price point down by shifting costs "downstream".  The toy is cheap to produce because ALL of them use the same electronics package.  Once something happens to that package the repair/replacement costs is much higher in terms of labor and parts.

Soo...LionChief is basically another way of saying "Cheap-o R/C using track power instead of batteries"?

 

---PCJ

Yes.  More in common with Aristo-Craft train engineer system.  Direct rf from remote to loco.  KISS and cheap.

I am with gunrunner on this one!why not a simple tmcc package. that being said even though the lionchief remote is simple, kid friendly and cost effective and almost bull it proof.I personally think they chose poor locomotives to put it into for the introduction of the new system. The thomas line was fine,but the other sets leave a lot to be desired! Please the tired old scout loco and the cheaper rs santa fe diesel.Mth has the railking imperial set engine the sd70ace and it is a better loco with ps2 included Than the lionel diesels they offer. The mth engines have better motors, electrol-couplers. More diecast parts ect.Lionel uses cheap can motors and cheap plastic trucks and couplers plus a cheaper smoke unit in the steamer line. Mth steamers all have proto smoke and full ps2 sounds and speed control. The mth sets with the better engines are more likely by the consumer to be incorporated into there expansion of there railroad empire than the engine and cars in lionels low end starter sets. Just my opinion of course!

I agree with John.

I think that Lionel is missing the boat on this one.

I'm all Lionel motive power, track, transformers and control system.

However, I'd have a difficult time talking a new hobbyist OUT of buying an MTH starter set. I like the fact that, as John said in another post, the MTH starter loco doesn't become an orphan when you graduate to a full command system and layout. 

 

I understand you point Chuck but a massive failure should be a rare occurrence and may even be covered as a warranty repair.

I personally see nothing wrong with using a universal board set in the locomotives, I think it's a good idea.  If they can produce a better product for the same money, what's not to like.  As far as the electronics failing, that can happen to any unit, and I don't see the MTH locomotives raining out of the sky with bad boards, any more than Lionel stuff. 

 

As far as the RTR sets with the wireless remote, I see the Lionel models as disposable toys for the most part and the MTH sets being able to be used for an expansion.

Are the remotes matched to engines, like electronic car keys?  I understand the blue, red, green, etc.  But what about multiples of blue (Thomas)?  One would have to be careful at 'go home time'.

I'm guessing that the color is the "match", and if you have two blues, you will have issues.

Would this engine also be able to run without the designated remote? Like just conventional power?

 

Hopefully Lionel would make available in a Legacy up version(eg 1.52) that can handle the little tykes.

Engines do not have conventional e-unit support.  They are designed to run on 18 volts track power with the remote.

I think the answer to your questions are No and No.

But - a question I have is 'Do these LionChief' units run on track other than fastrack? I mean the pictures show a completely different hookup track for the power. Is it just a mini-jack terminal track, meaning one would cut off the end, and simply hook up the 2 wires to the mth lockon?

 

I also noted, after hearing the 0-8-0 run on youtube, I am at least impressed with the fact that the sound seems to be on, instead of the asinine interruptions that the other 'railsounds' units have.

These locomotives will work on any three rail track as long as you have sufficient voltage present on the rails (about 10-18 volts from what some people have posted). You do have to have the remote, unless it is one of the forthcoming Lion Chief Plus,

in which case you can also operate them in conventional.