Lionel compability with mth

You will have to have the MTH DCS control system to run it in command mode; Legacy cannot run DCS (PS2/3) as a command system. You can run the MTH loco in conventional mode when not using Legacy.

So can I not double head the engine using legacy for the Lionel and no dcs system for the MTH Locomotive?

Alex Trains posted:

So can I not double head the engine using legacy for the Lionel and no dcs system for the MTH Locomotive?

that is correct.

You would have to swap the electronic guts out of one engine and make it match the control system used in the other to even have a shot at double-heading, and even then it may not work very well if the engines use significantly different gearing/drivetrains.  I would recommend just purchasing two of the same manufacturer's engines if you want to run a multi-unit.  

As mentioned above, you need the DCS system to have access to all of the command features of an MTH engine, TMCC or Legacy can not control them.  If you layout is equipped for conventional locomotives, perhaps with PowerMasters or the like, you could run the engine conventionally through your Legacy system.  

If you just want to get your feet wet with MTH engines, you could also purchase a DCS remote commander, which will give you access to some of the basic features of the engine on a constant power, command only, layout.  This device uses a simple IR remote control that allows adjustment of speed, whistle/bell, and a couple other features.  

The remote commander or full DCS system  will work right along side your legacy system, and one will not interfere with the other .  Depending how your layout is wired, you may have trouble with the DCS signal, however several folks have reported that the latest revision of the TIU often works without much, or any, modification to layout wiring.  There are plenty of other threads on the subject to be found by searching for 'DCS star wiring'.  

Over all, I'd say if you like the MTH version more than the Lionel one, give it a go with the remote commander, or better, if you know anyone that has a layout running DCS, see if you can get some hands-on time with the system and see if you like it.  

JGL

Thanks!

I have both Lionel 911 and Veterans SD60E's. I don't think the paint isn't bad on it. There is several posts on here that say the paint is bad on the 911 by Lionel. I love mine and I double head it all the time with the Veterans.

If you go the MTH route will need to the DCS like everyone has stated or the remote commander as JGL stated. I just got my DCS system at the end of December. I just the bought the TIU and WIU (wifi). I didn't want another remote. I have no problem adding and running engines with just my phone or iPad.

Also, like JGL stated. You can easily add DCS to your existing layout. If you bused wired your layout DCS may not have a problem. A lot of people have bussed wired and had no issues. It really depends on your track length and if you have blocks. Also, you won't have to control track power with the TIU. You can operate it in passive mode (covered in Barry's book). That is what I do. Get the DCS companion book by Barry (sold by OGR) and do research on the forum if you go this route. 

MTH says their new app for wifi will operate Legacy engines, but I'm sure won't get all the functionality as the Legacy system or LCS. We will see. You also still need a Legacy system on your layout. 

I like Legacy a little better in my opinion, but DCS is still a nice command system. With TMCC/Legacy you can bus wire and your done. Since DCS is a two-way system it gets a little more complex. 

HI Alex:

You can program Lionel Engines to run with the MTH/DCS Controller.  This photo shows the process to ADD a Lionel Engine.

TMCC is a Lionel Engine. Cab 1 or 2.  To learn more about this process ask your hobby shop or call MTH.

M.T.H. Phone Support

Monday - Friday (12:00PM to 5:00PM E.S.T.)

410-381-2580 - Extension 596

Hope this helps:  Gary

trainroomgary posted:

HI Alex:

You can program Lionel Engines to run with the MTH/DCS Controller.  This photo shows the process to ADD a Lionel Engine.

TMCC is a Lionel Engine. Cab 1 or 2.  To learn more about this process ask your hobby shop or call MTH.

M.T.H. Phone Support

Monday - Friday (12:00PM to 5:00PM E.S.T.)

410-381-2580 - Extension 596

Hope this helps:  Gary

Hey Gary,

David from across the pond says hello.

trainroomgary posted:

HI Alex:

You can program Lionel Engines to run with the MTH/DCS Controller.  This photo shows the process to ADD a Lionel Engine.

TMCC is a Lionel Engine. Cab 1 or 2.  To learn more about this process ask your hobby shop or call MTH.

M.T.H. Phone Support

Monday - Friday (12:00PM to 5:00PM E.S.T.)

410-381-2580 - Extension 596

Hope this helps:  Gary

Don't forget you must have both systems(DCS & TMCC or Legacy)hooked together in order to run TMCC or Legacy with the DCS remote, and need the hook-up cable between the DCS & Legacy or TMCC system.

One very important thing; Don't use a Lionel CW-80 with any MTH PS-2 engine! The MTH engine won't move.

Lee Fritz

You have to have the Lionel "base" hardware and the cord that connects from the TIU to it as well.

Why not a CW-80 with a ps2 ? I just purchased a ES44 csx PS3  currently have only run it on my MRC dual power 270W. Not very impressed with the engine. It has no coasting flywheel action when power is dropped it slams to a hault and all light weight cars derail. The engine is also not very fast. But maybe because its not on dcs I don't know. I was going to try it out on my CW80 to see if it acted different. The details and smoke is great from the new engine, but I have to figure out a couple features, etc. I will be holding off buying any other new MTH. I have an old Non scale MTH sd90 protosound That pulls better, has bigger flywheels or less engine braking, and the motive sounds and crewtalk are pretty good for its age.

This is the cord.......

TIU / TMCC-Legacy 6' Connector Cable     Part Number: 50-1032

Update: You can run Lionel Legacy with this cable.  Must have TIU / MTH / DCS Controller along with the proper Lionel equipment. See you MTH Dealer for details.

It is always best to talk to MTH Tech. Support.

M.T.H. Phone Support

Monday - Friday (12:00PM to 5:00PM E.S.T.)

410-381-2580 - Extension 596

Hope this helps.   Gary