MTH F3 stuck in neutral

Probably not. I would recommend checking the voltage on the battery to ensure it is properly charged; if it isn't, leave the locomotive on the track (set the throttle for around 14 volts) for an hour or more to permit the battery to charge. If the battery is not the issue, I would check to ensure the locomotive was not inadvertently locked into neutral.

 

Hope this helps!

 

-John

Try the reset but another transformer might work. 

Early MTH Z750 transformers in yellow boxes were not compatible with Proto-1. Maybe a Z1000 isn't, either. Proto-1 systems were designed for Lionel postwar transformers. MTH Z4000 transformers puts out full sine waves as they do.

 

Do other Proto-1 locomotives work with that Z1000?

 

Can you use a postwar transformer to test run that ABA set?

 

Proto-1 systems can be finicky. Some work with newer transformers and some don't.

 

There is another option, but - like a factory reset - if a circuit or a board is bad, it could do damage.

 

Using no more than 10 volts, Proto-1 locomotives can be unlocked by pressing a whistle button and turning off track power. Wait until the sounds stop and turn on the track power. When sounds come on again, locomotives should be back to normal.

Come to think of it, a recent topic dealt with a balky locomotive. The person who wrote it removed the body, pushed the circuit boards together, and that solved the problem.

 

It could be a worn or defective component on a circuit board, too.

Was the new battery full charged?

 

Turn on and let start up, then turn off power.  Does it play shutdown sounds?  If so battery is good.

 

Startup again, but make sure voltage is 10V or less so only about 1/3 on the Z-1000.  PS-1 starting voltage the first time must be less than 10V.

 

Try changing direction, or lowering throttle to off and back up.  Does it move now?

 

If not follow the reset procedure in the manual.  Do a reset 18.  Press whistle button twice.

 

If still no joy, chances are you have a software conflict that needs to be reset by a tech.  What model do you have, there were some known issues with early engines.  G

Thank you all for the invaluable advice. I will closely study each option and report  back. I may be acquiring a MTH 4000 and was advised this is a versatile power pack that has a wide range of usable features including a reset. Thank you sooo much (So Cal jargon) forum members!