Locomotive Help

Good morning,

I'm having some trouble with my U30C "U Boat".

Engine sounds, whistle, bell, and forward direction are working fine, however I'm not getting any cab lighting and my reverser does not allow me to alternate between forward, neutral, and reverse (always stuck in forward).

I'm using the Rail King Z-1000 (100 watt) transformer but have also tried my simplified Lionel 40 watt transformer (with just the direction and whistle buttons) yet I still run into the same problem. Currently running on a small O-27 (42 inch curves) test loop.

The previous owner said that he operated exclusively in TMCC mode and that perhaps it needs to be re-programmed to my MTH Rail King transformer. Is this an easy process?

I don't believe there is a "directional" switch on the bottom of the cab, only "run vs program", "smoke vs no smoke", and "sound vs no sound".

I appreciate any and all suggestions. Thank you and Happy Holidays!

12/15/129:59 AM

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Joe FermaniOGR Forum Member

For a TMCC loc, the Program/Run button is the direction lock out switch when running conventional. The switch should be set to the run position. The smoke and sound switches will not affect the direction of the locomotive.

There is no reprogramming needed to use the transformer. TMCC engines will automatically detect the command signal or not and will switch to conventional mode.

If the switch is in the run position, its possible that the r2lc board may have come loose when it was shipped to you. I would take the top off and re-seat the boards. Then try it again.

12/15/1210:08 AM

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phillyreadingOGR Forum Member

Is the engine in question a Lionel with TMCC or is it an MTH with DCS?

Reprogram is possible with the Z-1000 only if it is an MTH engine with PS-2.

If a Lionel engine he may need the CW-80 or ZW to reprogram the engine.

If you need more help try posting this on the command control board.

Lee F.

12/15/1210:37 AM

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SouthBostonOGR Forum Member

Thanks for your help guys. I will keep you posted.