MTH PS1 Engine & Old ZW

A really nice sounding conventional locomotive that you can some some command like features like remote couplers and station announcements.  I would go to MTH's website and download the manual for it and read it cover to cover and then replace the battery with a new one before ever placing it on the track.  Then go run it and enjoy it.  I love all my PS-1 equipped locomotives.

You'll want to get a bell controller (e.g. Lionel 6-5906) for easier access to some of the sound features. A QSI Side-Kick horn/bell controller is even better if you can find one, it makes accessing PS-1 features easier.  ZW + PS1 is a great combination, though, I used it for years...

Be sure to read and implement the threads here on the forum about fusing and spike protection with classic transformers. 

The GN Man posted:

You'll want to get a bell controller (e.g. Lionel 6-5906) for easier access to some of the sound features. A QSI Side-Kick horn/bell controller is even better if you can find one, it makes accessing PS-1 features easier.  ZW + PS1 is a great combination, though, I used it for years...

Be sure to read and implement the threads here on the forum about fusing and spike protection with classic transformers. 

Thanks for the tip!  I just ordered this one.  I hope it is correct:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/173266165557

Ponz

Mine is a Sidekick II, which has a boost function and works with various transformers. Sorry I didn’t clarify that. The unit you purchased should be ok for horn and bell control with a ZW. 

The GN Man posted:

Mine is a Sidekick II, which has a boost function and works with various transformers. Sorry I didn’t clarify that. The unit you purchased should be ok for horn and bell control with a ZW. 

Oh no!   Will it still make accessing PS-1 features easier as you stated?

Ponz

There was also a unit called a "Power Programmer" (IIRC) that had a digital (7 segment LED) readout where you could just select which option you wanted and the box would then ramp the voltage up and down the appropriate number of times so you weren't doing it by hand.

I had one years ago, but it died on me.

-Dave

Dave45681 posted:

There was also a unit called a "Power Programmer" (IIRC) that had a digital (7 segment LED) readout where you could just select which option you wanted and the box would then ramp the voltage up and down the appropriate number of times so you weren't doing it by hand.

I had one years ago, but it died on me.

-Dave

Dave - will this do me any good?

Ponz

Ponz, you should be ok. Once the features are set up on a PS1 engine, it is rarely necessary to change them. Get your engine running with the equipment you have, then you can decide if you really need more controls. 

I have the railking k4 no 1461 with ps1. I run it with a postwar kw transformer and a lionel sound activation button for the bell. I dont normally access the other ps1 features. I bought it new prob close to 20 years ago and other than oil smoke fluid and a new battery it is a great running machine.

Ponz posted:

Dave - will this do me any good?

Ponz

I should have been more specific.  It's very helpful IF you need to do any of the "clinks and clanks" programming (the Power Programmer, that is).  Raising and lowering a throttle 25 times (crazy example to demonstrate - but some commands really are that many cycles or more!) with proper timing and voltage swing is not a manual task easy to do without pretty significant manual dexterity and concentration.

Assuming the engine is not in some odd mode you need to get it out of, 2 buttons for whistle/horn and bell in general operation should do fine. 

I'd recommend going with something that provides 2 buttons, like the item referred to above, or maybe two # 5906 buttons wired back to back (so one does bell and one does horn).  What I'm suggesting is I would recommend something that gives you buttons with a similar "feel" to them, rather than relying on a whistle/horn button (or lever) on the transformer and then using the button as just an add-on for the bell.  I say this, as getting the "rhythm" right for the timing of the button presses can be tricky (IMO).  It's easier if the buttons you are pressing are similar to help get the timing correct. (again, IMO)

-Dave