Where's the problem?

I'd first check the integrity of all the internal connections, but swapping the R2LC is not a bad place to start.  I'd also look closely at the handrail antenna, sounds like you could have a low signal issue.

Greg, give us the Lionel product number and getting you an answer should be no problem.  Did you reprogram the R2LC board?

First you need to figure out whether it is the train or the TMCC command system.  Does he have another TMCC engine to test with?

Bad Command base, bad connection to track, or not using a grounded receptacle for the command base power supply can cause issues.  Also remove any power strip and plug command base directly into grounded receptacle.   These are the things to do with the command base.

For the engine, does it run conventionally?  If all motion, smoke, and sounds work conventionally you can check for antenna issues.  The hand rail on the boiler is the antenna it should NOT be grounded to chassis. IF grounded that would be an issue.  If antenna is good, you can reprogram as Marty stated.  After that swap an R2LC.  Rarely a mother board issue, but possible.

You really need to half your problem thought by figuring out if this is a TMCC Control issue or Engine specific issue.  G

Hi. I just wanted to follow-up with this issue I recently posted. When I arrived at my dad's place for the holidays it was obvious that the steamer was experiencing antenna interference. Since his other TMCC engine had no issues, I decided to go in for surgery!

I discoverd in the cab that the wires leading to the antennae on the shell had been worn down to the bare wire from the motor flywheel! Once I taped up the bare wire and put everything back together, it ran perfectly.

Thank you all of those kind folks who offered input and advise.

Happy Holidays,

Greg

I hope you also made sure the antenna leads could no longer rub on the flywheel or you'll be back for round #2 shortly.