mth PS1 coal turbine inoperative

Could be the battery, I would change to a new battery or go to a Bcr. If you smell a burnt smell then a board just took a crap. 

The good news is that the boards are available and fairly cheap.  Look at the board set closely, if you smell smoke, you normally see something that has lost it's "magic smoke".

If after start up you turn power right back off and it plays shutdown sounds your battery is ok.

PS-1 come out of the first reset state after powering up with voltage less than 10V.  After that you can change direction at any voltage level.

The sputtering at a higher voltage is an issue. Does it do it even if still in reset (neutral) or only after changing direction?

If when trying to move it could be a few things from binding in truck gears, bad wiring, or possible issue with the motor drive section of the board.  Not uncommon.

The engine boards are easily repairable or can be replaced.  Can you post a picture of the boards close up.   G

Transformer?? 

Thanks for all the inputs.  This one is on its way to Timko's in Ohio where I have had many things worked on before when I get stuck.  I'll update this after he returns it. usually pretty fast.  Thanks everyone!!

O gauger