That is the small O smoke unit.  Check the resistance of the single smoke heater.  They may have loaded the wrong DSP code into the board.

@Jon G posted:

That is the small O smoke unit.  Check the resistance of the single smoke heater.  They may have loaded the wrong DSP code into the board.

Thanks Jon.  Unfortunately, I haven’t a clue how to check the resistance. I don’t have any of those ohm meters or other devices.  Would checking how hot it gets while running on the track without the hood be a good way to test this?  How do I place the new wick so I can try?

Well, I installed some new wick by stuffing it in the well just like I found it when I opened it up. After loading it up with fluid, it smokes great but the smoke unit ran incredibly hot to the touch. Also, after about 5 minutes of running it on the track, I noticed that it wasn’t responding to my dcs handheld speed step changes.  It now appears to have lost speed control and only moves in response to the transformer voltage (more power, faster speed, etc). Feature resets have no effect and  I noticed that the wires under the smoke unit might have melted or been affected by the heat.  Looks like I’m sending this back to Trainworld. What a bummer. My first engine bought away from my local train store and it failed after only a couple of months.  

Unfortunately, Trainworld doesn’t do repairs, so unless they can replace it, they will likely refund your money.  I have an email in to MTH to see what DSP was loaded.

@Strap Hanger posted:

Thanks Jon.  Unfortunately, I haven’t a clue how to check the resistance. I don’t have any of those ohm meters or other devices.  Would checking how hot it gets while running on the track without the hood be a good way to test this?  How do I place the new wick so I can try?

I STRONGLY advise you to invest in an inexpensive multi-meter!  It's a must-have item around the train room, especially if you're doing any maintenance!

Here's one of many, more than sufficient for your needs.

Etekcity Digital Multimeter, Voltage Tester Volt Ohm Amp Meter with Continuity, Diode and Resistance Test, Dual Fused for Anti-Burn, Red, MSR-R500

Thanks guys.  Jon G, I didn’t know that about Trainworld. That is disappointing. Hopefully they have one in stock that they can swap out with me. If not, what a bummer. I just finished applying my MTA decals under the cab to make it look more like the prototype. I’m going to call them tomorrow and see how they want to handle this. What a bummer.  Let me know what mth tells you on the dsp. I don’t think it matters now in my situation with the speed control also malfunctioning, but I’m curious what caused the overheating smoke unit and I could pass it on to Trainworld.

Gunrunner, thanks for the link. It’s not the same unit as the one pictured in your post.  Is the linked item the one you recommended or did you mean to link the pictured one?  You’re right. I need to purchase one of these and just want to make sure I get the one you’ve recommended. Thanks?

@Strap Hanger posted:

Gunrunner, thanks for the link. It’s not the same unit as the one pictured in your post.  Is the linked item the one you recommended or did you mean to link the pictured one?  You’re right. I need to purchase one of these and just want to make sure I get the one you’ve recommended. Thanks?

You're right, I was looking at two.  The one I linked is actually a cool unit as it measures AC current without breaking the wire,  I use my clamp-on meter all the time to check how things are going on the RR.

This is the item I attempted to link...

Etekcity Digital Multimeter, Voltage Tester Volt Ohm Amp Meter with Continuity, Diode and Resistance Test, Dual Fused for Anti-Burn, Red, MSR-R500

Just heard from the sound engineer.  The new RS3’s do indeed have the wrong DSP code. So, if you have one, turn off the smoke unit.  New Consumer packages are already posted to the website.  MTH will announce how they will handle this problem for those that can’t load the new software.

Wow! Thanks Jon. I’m going to let Trainworld know.  This is unreal.  

FWIW, there is also a version of the PS32 firmware floating around that has the wrong smoke control file in it as well.  The PS32 board chain files for the small smoke unit actually had the standard smoke unit code.

I just got off the phone with Trainworld customer service and they told me Ken Jr. has been notified and will be getting back to me shortly.  I’ll keep you guys posted.

Gunrunner, if that is the case, you would think MTH would have made sure not to repeat that mistake before releasing these new engines to Trainworld as part of a special run.  I guess mistakes will always happen, but it’s a real bummer, particularly after I spent hours removing and installing decals on the shell to make this thing look prototypical with MTA signage.

Sorry for this issue Strap Hanger and anyone else who may experience this defect.  Sadly, our products are definitely designed by humans and humans make mistakes.  The DSP code in the model is setup for driving the regular O ga smoke unit.  This model uses the small O ga smoke unit referred to as smO internally.  The error is a simple "checked the wrong radio dial" in a software application that sets up all the variables for the DSP code.  It happens.

We have already corrected the files and posted them to our website.  So now, purchasers of this model can update the code file and resolve the issue.

In the meantime, users should a) turn and leave the smoke unit off under DCS or DCC and b) turn the smoke volume pot to the off position for those running conventional power.

The file loading process takes about 3 minutes start to finish for someone familiar with the process.  Anyone can do it themselves as well.  There are videos on the MTH website explaining how to download the free "Loader" program, new package file for the model, and install the new package.  It's not difficult but, understood that not everyone is comfortable with the overall process.  The model can be corrected by anyone with a DCS system and the loader program.

Here is a link to a couple videos to help folks download and install the loader program as well as how to download the needed files from our website.  The top two videos on this page are the primary ones.  The new files that need to be loaded can be found on the product page.  Search for your item number and click on "support" and then the ProtoSound 3 logo.

DCS Loader Videos

We are discussing any possible alternatives and will update this thread if we come up with anything.

Again, very sorry for this oversight.  We will also look at implementing an additional test step to avoid a reoccurrence.  If you know any people that do not make mistakes, please let us know as we would be interested in hiring them.

@MTH RD posted:

Dave, Thanks for the update and solution on this.  I just downloaded the code update.

Is it only the recent RS-3's that are affected?

I'm pretty sure from past threads on this forum the same thing happened to the VO 1000 MTH locomotives from 2017.

Brad

@MichRR714 posted:

Dave, Thanks for the update and solution on this.  I just downloaded the code update.

Is it only the recent RS-3's that are affected?

Yes.  Only the latest run that was recently delivered.

@MTH RD posted:

Sorry for this issue Strap Hanger and anyone else who may experience this defect.  Sadly, our products are definitely designed by humans and humans make mistakes.  The DSP code in the model is setup for driving the regular O ga smoke unit.  This model uses the small O ga smoke unit referred to as smO internally.  The error is a simple "checked the wrong radio dial" in a software application that sets up all the variables for the DSP code.  It happens.

Thanks for promptly addressing this. MTH RD.  Just my luck though, getting to be the first one to detect this and melt his engine, LOL!  Glad to see this Forum once again acting as a resource to resolve issues and help those in our hobby.

FYI, just to peg a timeframe for others, my engine was delivered in late November, 2021.  It was given to me as a Christmas present, so I didn't start operating it until after 12/25.  Anyone receiving an MTH RS3 in this delivery timeframe should also exercise caution.

I wonder why they changed to the small smoke unit?  In the manual for the 2018 30-20455-1 RK RS-3, they at least picture the standard smoke unit.  I may have to look inside one to see if that's what is actually in there.

@gunrunnerjohn posted:

I wonder why they changed to the small smoke unit?  In the manual for the 2018 30-20455-1 RK RS-3, they at least picture the standard smoke unit.  I may have to look inside one to see if that's what is actually in there.

The screw placement for removal of the shell/hood  identified in the online instruction manual for RS3s with PS3 also changed with these new models, moving one screw to a different location as depicted.  I figured that out after 20 minutes when starting on this journey.

@Strap Hanger posted:

Thanks for promptly addressing this. MTH RD.  Just my luck though, getting to be the first one to detect this and melt his engine, LOL!  Glad to see this Forum once again acting as a resource to resolve issues and help those in our hobby.

FYI, just to peg a timeframe for others, my engine was delivered in late November, 2021.  It was given to me as a Christmas present, so I didn't start operating it until after 12/25.  Anyone receiving an MTH RS3 in this delivery timeframe should also exercise caution.

We're announcing the issue and resolution steps in the dealer newsletter today.  We will also be publishing the information in the customer newsletter tomorrow. 

Will this affect new, just delivered RS1s?

If you search the forum for "MTH VO-1000 smoke issues" you will find the post I mentioned. Maybe not the same issue but the fix was some type of "Reflashing the board" software issue. The smoke units were melting the top of the locomotives. Sounds to me a very similar issue.

Brad

@B rad posted:

If you search the forum for "MTH VO-1000 smoke issues" you will find the post I mentioned. Maybe not the same issue but the fix was some type of "Reflashing the board" software issue. The smoke units were melting the top of the locomotives. Sounds to me a very similar issue.

Brad

Yep, sure seems like the same issue. Here is a link to the thread Brad referred to - https://ogrforum.com/...vo-1000-smoke-issues

Same issue, the chain files had the regular dual-resistor smoke unit hardware file, you needed to FLASH them with the proper single resistor chain file.

I flashed three of mine tonight and immediately noticed the smoke volume decreased.  Seems it's how it should be now.

I did have one strange occurrence that is probably unrelated but I didn't notice it until after I was done flashing the code.  I posted this question separately HERE.

This just came out today.

IMPORTANT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

2021 RailKing RS-3 Diesel Locomotive Smoke Unit Overheating

February 22, 2022 - The 2021 M.T.H. RailKing RS-3 Diesel Locomotives released in January 2022 were mistakenly programmed with the wrong smoke unit temperature values in the Proto-Sound 3.0 firmware resulting in excessive external smoke unit housing temperatures which could cause the locomotive shell to distort and warp. The issue exists in both conventional or command operating modes.

Owners of the locomotives should immediately cease operating the locomotives with the smoke unit on until the firmware in the locomotive is replaced. Revised firmware has been uploaded to the M.T.H. website and is available for free download by visiting the support tab of each affected RS-3 diesel's landing page.

The firmware can be replaced by consumers, retailers, or service centers using the DCS Consumer Loader Windows software and the DCS TIU. The affected RS-3 models can be found HERE. See below for more details on obtaining the DCS Consumer Loader software and using the software to reprogram the locomotive's firmware.

WHAT SHOULD M.T.H. AUTHORIZED RETAILERS DO ABOUT THIS ISSUE?

1. Contact all customers who purchased any of the affected models and advise them to cease using the models with the smoke unit in the ON position. Consumers can turn off the smoke unit in conventional mode by turning the smoke unit volume control knob located on the bottom of the locomotive all the way to the left (counterclockwise). The location of the knob is located in the User Manual on page 36. You can find the manual HERE. Command control operators MUST turn off the smoke unit using the DCS System as DCS overrides the smoke volume control knob position (the smoke volume control knob has no control over smoke output in command mode).

2. Update the Proto-Sound 3.0 software in any affected models still remaining in inventory BEFORE selling them.

3. Prepare to offer Proto-Sound 3.0 software updates to any customers who request it.

HOW TO OBTAIN THE DCS CONSUMER LOADER WINDOWS SOFTWARE

1. Visit the DCS Software Downloads page on the M.T.H. Website located HERE to download the free software.

2. Review the DCS Consumer Loader software installation tutorial video located HERE.

3. Review the DCS Hardware Connection For Firmware Updates tutorial video located HERE. Note: you'll only need to review the section about hooking up the TIU to the computer

4. Review the DCS Loader Program Instructions user manual located HERE.

Should you have any questions about this issue or require assistance in using the DCS hardware and consumer loader software please don't hesitate to contact the M.T.H. Sales Department.

@MichRR714 posted:

I flashed three of mine tonight and immediately noticed the smoke volume decreased.  Seems it's how it should be now.

I did have one strange occurrence that is probably unrelated but I didn't notice it until after I was done flashing the code.  I posted this question separately HERE.

Is this the process once you've installed the loader program (of course, we would obtain the zip files from the respective ps3 icon of of our particular model number, not the VO model in the example below)?

@Strap Hanger posted:

Is this the process once you've installed the loader program (of course, we would obtain the zip files from the respective ps3 icon of of our particular model number, not the VO model in the example below)?

Here are the steps to reflash:

1. Click on the SUPPORT tab

2. Click on the PS3 icon

3. It will down load a .ZIP file

4. Unzip the file

5. This will give you two more files

1-a .MTH file (sound file)

2-another .ZIP file (chain files)

6. Open the Loader program

7. Select the FLASH icon

8. Follow the instruction on the screen

9. Use the second .ZIP file from step 5

DONE

Yes.  Relatively simple.  Took me about 5 minutes per engine.

After loading the zip file, start the loco in conventional and you will hear a series of beeps as the code is written to the processor.  Let it run it’s course until the sounds start up.

Thanks, MichRR714 and Jon G.  This seems doable. 

@MTH RD I hope you add this to your email blast.  As unlikely and crazy as it might be, not everyone is on or reading the OGR forum or in touch with their vendor. 

According to the MTH Special Announcement, the dealers who sold any of these engines are supposed to be reaching out directly to all customers who purchased any of the defective engines. Hopefully they will do so ASAP.

Pat

@irish rifle posted:

According to the MTH Special Announcement, the dealers who sold any of these engines are supposed to be reaching out directly to all customers who purchased any of the defective engines. Hopefully they will do so ASAP.

Pat

I still think it would be prudent to do an email blast the way they've been announcing new products.  I can't imagine every dealer knows everyone they sold these to.

@Jon G posted:

After loading the zip file, start the loco in conventional and you will hear a series of beeps as the code is written to the processor.  Let it run it’s course until the sounds start up.

Is this a required step?  I wasn't prompted to do this but did hear some tones after the process completed with the loader program.

@MartyE posted:

I still think it would be prudent to do an email blast the way they've been announcing new products.  I can't imagine every dealer knows everyone they sold these to.

Marty:

I totally agree with your point. Communicating through as many channels as possible is always advisable. Better to over-communicate than under-communicate, particularly on something this important and where time is of the essence.

I think that many dealers are aware of what products they have sold to their customers, particularly those that have automated record-keeping and on-line ordering systems. But even in those cases, or other situations where a dealer keeps sales records manually, there is no guarantee those dealers will contact their impacted customers, or when they will do so.

Pat

This issue was included in an email blast I just received from MTH.  I give MTH credit for dealing with this issue as they have.

@MichRR714 posted:

This issue was included in an email blast I just received from MTH.  I give MTH credit for dealing with this issue as they have.

I just got the same. Excellent job getting the word out!  You can only do so much but you should do as much as you can.

@MichRR714 posted:

Is this a required step?  I wasn't prompted to do this but did hear some tones after the process completed with the loader program.

If you heard the morse code beeps, you should be OK.   If it doesn’t do it, start in conventional.  When we used the DCS commander at MTH to load the Flash file, it usually required a conventional restart.

@MTH RD posted:

Sorry for this issue Strap Hanger and anyone else who may experience this defect.  Sadly, our products are definitely designed by humans and humans make mistakes.  The DSP code in the model is setup for driving the regular O ga smoke unit.  This model uses the small O ga smoke unit referred to as smO internally.  The error is a simple "checked the wrong radio dial" in a software application that sets up all the variables for the DSP code.  It happens.

We have already corrected the files and posted them to our website.  So now, purchasers of this model can update the code file and resolve the issue.

In the meantime, users should a) turn and leave the smoke unit off under DCS or DCC and b) turn the smoke volume pot to the off position for those running conventional power.

The file loading process takes about 3 minutes start to finish for someone familiar with the process.  Anyone can do it themselves as well.  There are videos on the MTH website explaining how to download the free "Loader" program, new package file for the model, and install the new package.  It's not difficult but, understood that not everyone is comfortable with the overall process.  The model can be corrected by anyone with a DCS system and the loader program.

Here is a link to a couple videos to help folks download and install the loader program as well as how to download the needed files from our website.  The top two videos on this page are the primary ones.  The new files that need to be loaded can be found on the product page.  Search for your item number and click on "support" and then the ProtoSound 3 logo.

DCS Loader Videos

We are discussing any possible alternatives and will update this thread if we come up with anything.

Again, very sorry for this oversight.  We will also look at implementing an additional test step to avoid a reoccurrence.  If you know any people that do not make mistakes, please let us know as we would be interested in hiring them.

I have one of the affected engines - comment and questions...

It's not clear from the videos and instructions that it's the chain file that needs the update, nor is it obvious which of the downloaded files that is.  I initially reloaded the sound file (a 45-minute process).  After doing that, I got clued in by rereading the comments about flashing the engine and the process only taking a few minutes, so I did that as well.

1) The flash process said that it finished properly.  Is there any way to verify that the issue has been resolved?

2) After flashing and startup, I compared the volume of smoke against a couple of other engines - it still seems a bit on the generous side, but not overly so.  Does this indicate that it's now functioning correctly?

Anything else to look for and/or do?

Thanks. 

@Mallard4468 posted:

I have one of the affected engines - comment and questions...

It's not clear from the videos and instructions that it's the chain file that needs the update, nor is it obvious which of the downloaded files that is.  I initially reloaded the sound file (a 45-minute process).  After doing that, I got clued in by rereading the comments about flashing the engine and the process only taking a few minutes, so I did that as well.

1) The flash process said that it finished properly.  Is there any way to verify that the issue has been resolved?

2) After flashing and startup, I compared the volume of smoke against a couple of other engines - it still seems a bit on the generous side, but not overly so.  Does this indicate that it's now functioning correctly?

Anything else to look for and/or do?

Thanks.

Mallard, the roof of my RS3, about an inch from the smokestack to the cab, became incredibly hot to the touch.  So much so, it caused a slight dimple or bubble spot in the upper right hand corner (facing the smokestack) of the grills at the top of the engine.  I’m going to be regularly feeling this area for excessive heat after my board is reflashed with the new code just to be sure. I’ll let my guard down once I regularly notice that it’s not warmer than my other engines (like my mth rs1).