troubleshooting - 2 beeps and error message on controller

Steve-

I'm assuming the F40 has Proto 3, which would eliminate a weak/dead battery as a possible cause of the beeps.

Typically beep codes are heard after when the sound/chain files are flashed; if the flash was successful the beep codes will stop on their own.

This forum post can offer more advice on post-flash beep codes  https://ogrforum.com/...e-won-t-stop-beeping

-John

If it's PS/3, I'd consider trying to reload the chain files, then the sound files.  Power cycle twice between loading the chain files and the sound files.

Thanks

It is an MTH 20-2148-1

@Sgolden876 posted:

Thanks

It is an MTH 20-2148-1

O Scale Premier F40PH Diesel Engine - With Proto -- sold 1997

You have a PS1 engine that no, DCS remote will not operate or find and add the engine.

Only PS2 and PS3 can be accessed and controlled in command mode with DCS.

The 2 dings are there telling you you have a protosound 1 engine you just powered up. It is conventional only.

https://mthtrains.com/20-2148-1

Highly suggest you first open that shell and check for and most likely replace the original white 9V rechargeable battery that is required for correct conventional operation of that engine. Again, minimally post a picture of the battery after opening the shell. Inspect for leakage or corrosion on the 9V battery snap connector. Even if the battery is the green label or the new grey silver, they could be old enough and leaking to still need replacement.

The manual https://mthtrains.com/sites/de...ction/20dl11807i.pdf

Also note, that in the manual this engine may be picky on what conventional transformers can correctly operate it- seen at the back of the manual.

I was going to say, a 2 ding is PS-1.  Conventional only. G

@Vernon Barry posted:

You have a PS1 engine that no, DCS remote will not operate or find and add the engine.

The 2 dings are there telling you you have a protosound 1 engine you just powered up. It is conventional only.

Also note, that in the manual this engine may be picky on what conventional transformers can correctly operate it- seen at the back of the manual.

Vernon's right on the mark.

It might also be very picky on the sequence and position of throttle movements, while and after it's first started up.  Normally after the 2 beeps, or dings, turning the throttle off then on again will get it moving.

On earlier models this may not be sufficient.  Check out these old posts (below) for some hints.

Follow this link for more detail, embedded within a previous poster's related question on Protosound 1 (PS1):

   Rock island set MT-2127LP (6/5/21) | Merlin

Be aware that there is also an alternative approach, which for whatever reason is quite different, that was published back in the day, apparently by MTH.  See this link:

   PS1 Cautionary Note (6/29/21) | mort1345

Lastly, on the subject of transformers vs TIU's and Lionel TPC's or PowerHouses operating ProtoSound 1's:

   Proto sounds Compatability (7/14/19) | Mellow Hudson Mike

Good luck; let us know how it turns out.

Mike

Thank you everyone -- i popped the cab off, found the battery, it is dead. i ordered a new one and it should arrive today

i am disappointed that it is conventional (my bad) but i still love it and will use it as a conventional engine, again thanks for all your help and advice

BTW anyone know of someone looking to unload O gauge MBTA Bilevel passenger cars?  they are harder to find than chickens teeth!

thanks