MTH 256 Headlight Not Working

Newt posted:

I recently acquired a MTH 256 Tinplate locomotive with PS2. One of the two headlights doesn't work. I eliminated the possibility of a bad bulb by switching the bulbs. I suspect a wire has come loose or a bad headlight assembly. Can anyone provided some do's and don'ts on how to remove the shell to get at the headlights? I've done repair work before but never on a Tinplate engine. The Tinplate engines seem very fragile compared to the diecast or plastic engines.

Also, should I replace the battery while I'm in there? If so should I use a BCR?

Thanks for your help in advance.

Newt,

         The shell is removed very easily.  Just unscrew the two screws at both ends of the locomotive. These screws attach the shell to the locomotive frame.  Then just gently lift the shell off the frame.  Their are several wires still connected to the lights so be gentle when lifting the shell off.  You will be able to see quite easily if one of the wires has pulled free from the headlight tabs.  If one has come loose reconnecting it is an easy fix.  Replacing the battery with a BCR is strictly optional unless you are having trouble with your battery.  Once you get inside you will see if you have a 8.4 volt NIMH battery (looks like your standard 9 volt battery) or a dual triple A 2.4 volt battery pack.   The 8.4 volt battery is replaced with the original BCR while the Triple A 2.4 volt battery pack is replaced with the BCR2. I have this same engine and replaced my dual triple A battery pack with a BCR2 which has failed to charge so I put a new battery in and for now it is working although I've been told that if the charging circuit has gone bad in the engine the new battery will wear down very quickly and  have to be replaced in a very short period.  In any event whichever battery you have they are easily removed and replaced with either a new battery or a BCR or BCR2.  Good luck and hope this helps.

did you test the bulbs with a vom volt ohm meter that should tell you weather ur light is good or not! take the bulb out a try a battery and see if your light lights, the bulb could be good but the harness or board could be bad!?? the bulbs are usually 6 volts!

Be very careful with the bulb sockets.  I had a STD Gauge one with red and green markers, the mounting an insulation was AWFUL!  The reason it was in was the bulbs had shorted to the frame, small wonder.  I managed to fix it, but I didn't trust it.  I put a small PTC in series with the PV line in case they shorted again it wouldn't take out the board.