I run my small 4x8 layout in conventional with MTH Z-1000s.
I've got two PS3 engines currently, a Dash 8 diesel and 0-6-0, both Railking Imperial units.
Per standard operating procedure, the PS3 locos sit with lights on about 20-30 seconds before coming on.
Occasionally, and very occasionally, upon power up, the 0-6-0 will come on in full lights, sound, smoke, etc. If I cycle voltage to 0 and back up to cycle the reverse unit, it will immediately go silent and come on silent with lights, as it should in stead of forward. After 20-30 seconds, it runs fine even though it started up in full lights/sound, etc.
I've also found that if it comes on in full lights and sound and some and let it still it in idle 20-30 seconds, it will still perform as it should.
Obviously, something isn't telling the capacitors to charge or keep the engine quiet. Anyone have this issue? I have not had this happen on the Dash 8. In addition, I tested an engine I was considering purchasing at my LHS this morning, an MTH RTR 2-8-0 loco with PS3 and immediately came up in full sound, lights, smoke, etc on the test track. When cycling into forward, it died. Upon power up again, it sat quite, EXACTLY like my 0-6-0. I did not purchase the engine as I felt something wasn't right with that behavior.
What would the repair be on this? Any cost estimates?