Protosound Doodlebug

First off, put a new battery in it to start.  It requires a 9V NiMh rechargeable battery.

Next, advance the transformer to no more than 10 volts, just enough to get the sounds running.  After you hear the dings, you can press the direction button and it should move out.  Once it's out of reset, you can vary the throttle to any speed.

You might consider downloading the MTH RailKing Doodlebug User's Manual for more detailed instructions.

I have the manual! It just makes no sense to me! I use a variac hooks to a step down transformer. I may have to put it on my regular layout which uses a ZW!

ProtoSounds is a MTH adaptation of QSIndustries electronic reverse units and sound boards. It is designed for Lionel postwar transformers that produce "pure" or "full" sine wave AC. A ZW transformer is a perfect match.

Many modern transformers produce "chopped" sine wave AC. ProtoSounds can't "read" or "digest" it. They may run for a time but eventually "chopped" sine wave AC will damage or destroy them.

I replaced rechargeable batteries in my ProtoSounds with BCR's [Battery Component Replacement] available from J and W Electronics. Apply 10 volts for 1 minute and a locomotive is ready to go.

I've never known a chopped wave transformer to damage early ProtoSounds boards, they just won't run well with many types of those transformers.

Do you get 2 dings when power is first applied to the track. This indicates the engine is in reset mode(programmable with the clinks and clanks). To leave rest mode , lower the track voltage and press the dir button . don't be in a big rush....As mentioned a good battery is required to get the engine out of reset state.    Yep try the post war ZW.

I assume I have to unscrew the plate on the bottom to replace the battery. It say I can use a standard alkaline 9volt battery while waiting for the proper battery!

Actually, you have to pull the shell and remove the battery from the top.

There are 6 or 8 screws that need to come out to get the battery, been a while since I opened my Doodlebug.  And this whole chopped vs sine wave thing is BS, IMHO.  I've only run my Protosound locomotives with "chopped" wave transformers, and have for nearly a decade and not one has had any issues from it.  The big thing for Protosound locomotives is you have to have a good battery in them, and have track voltage below 10V to get them to leave reset.

After consulting with Jim in San Diego and John at the Train Crossing and calling MTH, I decided to send the unit back. The lady at MTH said the Proto One units should not be put on a shelf for years and be expected to run. She said replacing the battery MIGHT help but the boards would probably have to be replaced anyhow. The cost of all of that would exceed the value of the Doodlebug! This should also be a warning to folks selling MTH products. Put the units on the track and make sure they actually run before selling them to someone!

Sorry, that's BS.  Circuit boards do not just go bad sitting on a shelf.  Many of my Protosound locomotives were new in box never opened.  I just replaced the battery before powering them the 1st time and they have all worked flawlessly.

I am going to have to talk to Jim...he knows better  The MTH girl is not a tech.  Sinclair is correct on this.  Change the battery and go run them.  Worst case is a reset is required for 99.9% of these.  Especially a doodle bug which is after 1997 and less susceptible to battery related conflicts.  Mine sits on a siding for a year or two be for I fired it up and it worked fine.  G