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This topic could also apply to Lionel Tips-n-Tricks. If any of us believe that there is a different proper protocol for Lionel smoke than for MTH smoke, then we can run a similar thread there too.

So, why am I raising this subject?

First, MTH PS3 locos run on DCS are my favorite locos and their smoke feature is my favorite feature. I admit I'm more than a little weird, but believe I'm not alone when it comes to MTH PS3 and smoke.

Secondly, IMO, if the proper protocol is not followed, the smoke feature often breaks down and is lost.

So, if you're interested in this subject, what protocol do you follow to keep your smoke healthy and well.

I will share my protocol later. Arnold

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I don't know of any protocols personally, but I'll share how I run my loco smoke. I have never had any issues. I place about 5 drops of fluid in the reservoir and run my smoke for about the first 10 mins or so that I run the loco. Then the room gets filled or my wife complains so I shut it off and run the rest of the session without. I always add the few drops of fluid as I'm sure you don't want to burn up the wicks. I have many smoke features around the layout as well, ie, smoke stacks, exhaust ports. I basically do the same for those.

I can go into more detail.

First time I start an MTH engine with fan driven smoke, I put 20 + drops in stack and blow lightly down the stack.

I typically run engine for a few laps (5 minutes).

When done running, I put a few drops down the stack.

For MTH, I always use MTH Protosmoke fluid; for Lionel I always use Lionel Premium smoke fluid.

For all future runs of MTH locomotives with fan driven smoke, I put in 8 to 10 drops or about 20% of the medicine dropper of Protosmoke and lightly blow down the stack before I start the engine. Then, I follow the rest of the steps in the above protocol.

Doing the above has greatly reduced my problems with MTH Smoke units.

What do you think? Am I doing anything unnecessary? If so, what is unnecessary?

How much is too much smoke fluid to put into an MTH engine?

Arnold

Last edited by Arnold D. Cribari

I've needed 30+ drops in a new dry fan driven unit. Usually 20 will due after that. 10 drops if I'm topping off a still smoking unit on the tracks after a few minutes of cool down. I've never got anywhere with 5 drops.

I'm a big MTH PS3 guy for smoke like Arnold but I have to say my 5 or so lionel engines from more recent years smoke just as well.

From what I've  heard lionel has come a long way with their smoke in recent years. Not to mention JT Mega steam was a game changer in my opinion.

Brad

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