When I run a TMCC steam engine using the Legacy controller, if I press the + button, my locomotive smokes great but when I release the button, the smoke output diminishes a lot. It seems like the heating element gets hot enough to create quite a bit of smoke when I press the + button, but when I release the button, it cools off quickly. Is there some command to set the smoke level so that it will smoke like it does when I hold the + sign down?
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If I can explain it correct.
the + button gives the resistor extra volts when pushed but the resistor returns to normal levels when released. it acts like a boost button.
talking about smoke, does the MTH STD ga. use a cam for smoke?,, any diagrams,,? thanks
Certain older TMCC locos have a "smoke boost" feature. that is activated the way you describe. It is designed to breif inctrease the voltage to get the unit heated up then return to normal operating voltage.
If your getting less than satisfactory smoke it may be time for rewicking or doing the smoke mods described by Mike Reagan of Lionel and other forum members have posted.
Do a forum search for smoke unit upgrades.
Certain older TMCC locos have a "smoke boost" feature. that is activated the way you describe. It is designed to breif inctrease the voltage to get the unit heated up then return to normal operating voltage.
If your getting less than satisfactory smoke it may be time for rewicking or doing the smoke mods described by Mike Reagan of Lionel and other forum members have posted.
Do a forum search for smoke unit upgrades.
An item# would be more helpful. Another issue that can occur is a bad regulator, a faulty regultor sends too little voltage to the unit and hampers smoke output.
Searching Lionels parts site for your loco and if so it will be listed there. I myself had a TMCC loco with poor smoke output until one day received a rediculous amount of voltage, smoked like crazy for a minute or two, then burned up. Changed the regulator and it smoked as it should.
I'm not sure how to test that the regulator is functioning correctly.
In some cases, a hotter resistor may be the answer.
Many times a hotter resistor can be used, but its best to ask, which one would be "safest" and effective at the same time. There are limits to the electronics.
You may want to start a thread or change the title of this one ( if possible) and get the attention of the "experts" and inquire what exactly your options are.In either case," gurus" like gunrunnerjohn will be able to assist.
I just replaced the regulator and the smoke unit PCB for one that went into "warp" smoke mode! 
I must admit, for a brief moment in time, it was an impressive display!
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