Hi, this is my first post on the forum. Maybe someone can help me with a problem replacing or repairing a MTH constant lighting board.
The constant voltage board in my MTH 20-3031-1 PRR G-5 ten wheeler recently suffered a component failure at the board's power input. Although badly burned, the component looks like it might have been a capacitor.
I removed the board and the loco runs alright without it, except that it no longer has a headlight, front marker lights, smoke, etc.
I contacted Midge at MTH service and, so far, she has not been able to locate a replacement board or any schematic that would positively identify the burned component. I also asked our local authorized MTH service center to locate a replacement board and they, too, were unable to do so. Although the loco is not too old, circa 2000, component replacement has apparently become practically impossible.
This model has great sentimental value for me as I grew up with its prototype G-5's running on PRR's Grand Rapids & Indiana branch. I would like to keep it in top notch shape. Does anyone have any ideas or sources for replacing or repairing this board?
Original Post