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Just  wondering if anyone has ever installed a switch in a 2046 steamer to turn off the smoke unit. I have issues running smoke due to souse and others having alergy issues.If so, how did you do this. I want to be able to run these engines without disconnecting.

 

JoeG

Last edited by Trainlover160
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TrainLover, on your 2046, there is a single wire that runs from the smoke unit to the e-unit. You may simply add a SPDT switch to that cut wire. The hard part is locating the switch somewhere  without modifying the shell. You may be best locating the switch behind the boiler face if it is of the hinged type, or even if it isn't as it is a single very accessible screw to expose the switch.

Last edited by bmoran4
Trainlover160 posted:

Yes Joe, that would be my issue, is trying to run it out of smoke. David, that is one option that I had not thought of? Thanks everyone for your input and wisdom.

 

JoeG

If you have the patience, running them out of smoke is a one-time, permanent fix unless you put smoke back in them again.  Just set them up outside or in a well-ventilated room and apply power to the locomotive(s) in neutral (turn the e-unit off) and just let it sit that way until the smoke finally dries up.  Take a pipe cleaner and make sure to clean up any residue in the stack while that's being done.   When the smoke output is nil, run it with the wheels spinning briefly so the chamber can force out any remnants.   Easy, no fiddling with the wiring by adding a switch needed.

Last edited by John Korling

I have a Lionel 2055.  So I am too thinking how to use an on/off switch.  Many old desktop computers have a micro size dual wire plug that connects to a circuit board, so I will try to run this into the cab, then use a jump wire to turn on the smoke unit.  In theory thus far.

Dave

Here is progress thus far on my pike:

 

David Johnston posted:

Rather than a switch, you could put a small plug and jack in the cab.  You should be able to do this without modifying anything on the loco except the wire to the smoke unit.

I like this idea. Not sure what tender you use, but you could also put a tiny switch in the bottom of the tender and a run a couple wires into the cab of the locomotive where there could be a plug and jack. 

I modified the smoke output on a Williams Challenger years ago and stuck the switch under the cab of the engine to reduce the level of smoke output to half and off.  To locate the switch where I wanted it, I think I glued the switch to a piece of pcb material with epoxy.  The pcb material was cut so that it could reach an existing screw in the engine.  I put a longer screw in its place to accomodate the original screw length plus the thickness of the pcb board.  You could also use a thin piece of wood or plastic laminate.  In my case you just had to feel under the cab and locate the switch.  With a heavy engine there was little chance of derailing it while changing the switch position.  

You should have access to the inside of the 2046 or 2055 cab and could mount a switch recessed back inside the cab.  Use a black paint pen or sharpie to color the switch and wires black and then even you might not be able to find it.  Wherever you locate the switch, remember to allow plenty of room for your finger to get to and move the switch.

Last edited by aussteve

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