What Tether Should I Use for a TMCC Upgrade?

If you are purchasing an ERR upgrade, there are usually some accessories including the tether that can also be purchased.  You may also want to concider an electro-coupler.

There is a phone number (408) 454-4127

Contact E-mail  errsupport@lionel.com

Landon,

   We have 6 & 8 pin that we use for tethers when upgrading. They are available on our web page under Lionel, wire and connectors. These use superflex wire. I don't know how many pins the Proto 1 uses but if there is enough pins I don't see a problem.

Bill

Is this what I need?

Forget the picture above, I know what I need now.

Thanks for the help Bill, would you be able to give me an item number on the 8 pin tether?  I can't seem to locate it.

and the receiver?

Oops, never mind I found it.  Not that good at technology.

I use the MTH PS/2 tethers.  They have 10 pins and come in straight and 90 degree connector types.

You need to determine how many control features you want before selecting a harness.  Basic TMCC function of early Lionel used just 4 pins, but in many cases you may want more.  AC power is 2, Motor is 2, HL is 1, smoke control depending on what you are doing can run 1-3, chuff switch is 1, if you are using an engine handrail as antenna that can be 1.  You can see how it adds up quickly.  Plus it depends on where you are putting the boards.  R2LC in the engine with RS in the Tender can reduce the required number. G

Landon,

   If you are going to do the upgrade I would also suggest installing shunted motor brushes, they are part number 610-8507-150. This engine will require 3 wires for the motor.

Bill

Not trying to be disrespectful, but what is the point of installing them, do they replace the brushes I already have in the motor?

They have a solid connection from the brush to the brush holder with a super-flex wire.  This eliminates one large generator of electrical noise, the connection between the brush holder and the brush.  All of the Lionel factory TMCC AC motors use these for that reason.  They're cheap and easy to install, so there's no good reason not to install them.

Thanks, I'll order them as well!