PRR K4 #3678, Lionel 6-38089, no bell, no whistle, improper chuff in conventional.........

Cherry switch is where chuff originates....chuff is generated from ground through the cherry to radio board.....cherry switches known suspect, usually either out of adjustment, or just plain failing.....sometimes all that’s required is slight pushing on the bracket that retains the switch...sometimes the switch just goes into hit or miss mode...how did you verify switch with DVM?

Pat

What transformer are you using ? I’m just learning the differences between a “vintage” transformer (which I understand produces a “smooth” sine wave current) and the “current” production Lionel (which produces a “chopped” sine wave current). I’m learning a vintage AC power pack just doesn’t work with a Lionel Legacy locomotive. The accompanying Instruction Manual makes no mention of any differences. Could this be the source of your locomotive’s issues ?

Thanks for the reply. With my Fluke 23 DMM on ohms scale, I measure <1 ohm when switch closes. I'm spinning the motor flywheel by hand to rotate the cam. I also get a "beep" on diode function. I'm measuring at the 2 pin connector on the motherboard. I did bend the arm to make switch actuate a little sooner, but no change. Is the cherry switch used in TMCC mode or is there another mechanism to trip the chuff? I can't help but think this issue is related to no bell and no whistle in conventional mode.

Paul

Thanks for the reply. I'm using a relatively modern Williams 80 watt transformer Model #1000080, Cab1 remote, command base and PM-1 powermaster. This same system activates the bell and whistle on my TMCC diesels in conventional mode without any difficulty. The K4 is my only TMCC steamer.

Paul

So you’re using the cab 1 but running everything conventional? ........is that correct?....if so, I wonder if you’re just not able to keep enough track power to keep the sounds alive......have you tried it in command?...same issue?.....something’s not quite making sense...try using the back up battery feature ( 9 volt ) if you’re in conventional.....see if that makes a difference ....

Pat

I can't demonstrate full functionality in conventional. No issues in command, bell, whistle and rhythmic 1 chuff per wheel revolution works fine. Yes, I'm using Cab1 in conventional w/ command base off.  New 9v battery in tender. Battery seems to be working since steam shutdown noises continue when I de-energize track and there is no sound loss when changing direction.