Lionel Odyssey and new Legacy Engines

While I never run with Odyssey off, I can understand why the switch should be there.  This is the first I've heard of them eliminating it so I will put the Bat Signal out to @SantaFeFan and @Dave Olson.

Marty - that photo is amazing. Just saying.

Correct, the ODY switch is no longer being put into Legacy engines. We have determined there was no use for it considering what the system was designed for.

FCAVOLO - we're trying to understand what you're trying to do with Legacy and block control. The ODY switch doesn't affect how the engine acts when power is restored to it. If you're running Legacy and you cycle power, it will not resume moving until a Cab command is sent. If you're in conventional mode and power is cycled the engine will go into neutral unless the direction lockout is on, then it will resume.

Dave,

I am using a Legacy/ DCS block control system on my layout that utilizes relays, resistors, signals, blocks and contact tracks to automatically run multiple trains on the same track.

It works as follows: a train enters a block where the voltage has been reduced and stops via the use of a contact track and a relay which is triggered by the “lead” train. The key to the system is to reduce the voltage sufficiently in the block through the use of resistors to stop the engine but NOT turn it off. As the lead train moves forward it hits a contact track section, triggers a relay and restores full voltage to the block containing the stopped train and it proceeds forward.

Most TMCC and Legacy engines with Odyssey turned off will stop and start fine in the blocks. All my MTH engines stop and start flawlessly. When Odyssey is turned on, the engines will stop in the block and not re-start or they will simply blow through the block without stopping at all. So, it is vital to me to have the ability to turn Odyssey on and off.

Frank Cavolo

I wonder if Lionel is still using Odyssey 2 in the newer engines.  I know at one time Odyssey 2 said switch included, meaning Odyssey 2.   Just Curious.  Personally, I like Odyssey for great speed control. We run rather long freight trains and with modest grades speed control is a must have.  Good subject...

Marty - the new Legacy B&M Mogul 2-6-0 I have has no Odyssey on/off switch. The interesting part is that the instruction manual says it's there and shows a diagram of the underside of the engine with it there, but it's not there. A little confusing at first, but I can understand Dave's point about not having a use for it any longer.

Richie C. posted:

Marty - the new Legacy B&M Mogul 2-6-0 I have has no Odyssey on/off switch. The interesting part is that the instruction manual says it's there and shows a diagram of the underside of the engine with it there, but it's not there. A little confusing at first, but I can understand Dave's point about not having a use for it any longer.

Thanks.  I'll have to take a look at some. 

Same with the S2. No switch but it is in the instructions.

Is it the switch that's eliminated only?  Are the electronics and connectivity still there that a switch could be added if someone wants this option?  I get why Lionel is elimating it if 90% of folks are not using it but for those who do maybe an internal suitcase jumper or the ability to add a switch would be sufficient.

MartyE posted:

Is it the switch that's eliminated only?  Are the electronics and connectivity still there that a switch could be added if someone wants this option?  I get why Lionel is elimating it if 90% of folks are not using it but for those who do maybe an internal suitcase jumper or the ability to add a switch would be sufficient.

Correct. A switch or jumper could be added.

Frank - with the way you're using your engines, you're essentially stalling the motors. The system wasn't designed for that sort of use. So as stated above, you could add a jumper or switch in, but do so at your own risk as this type of use was never tested or protected against.

Dave,

Please see page 50 of Robert Schleicher’s book “The Lionel FasTrack Book” where he discusses the use of an 8-ohm resistor to allow TMCC engines to stop in a block without losing their program settings.

Frank Cavolo