My Father'n Law and I are working on his large HO scale basement layout. For his steam engines on the main lines he is using a PFM-II. We have encountered a problem. When there are more than two blocks active at once the sound no longer works. The engine will still function, just no sound. This is a challenge because we have to constantly turn blocks on and off so that only two blocks are active as any steam engine travels on the mains. Is there anyone out there who has experience with the PFM-I & II and encountered a problem like this? If so, how did you solve it? BTW.... DCC is not an option for us because the layout is 80% finished and with over 40 engines in our library we simply cannot afford all the decoders and change out the old high-draw electric motors (most of our engines are 10+ years old).
Chris, First off, WELCOME to TrainBoard! I'm sure you'll find this a peacefull and interesting site, the members are very knowledgable and will help and answer any or all your questions as they get seen and read. However I can't help you with the problem you have as I'm using MRC Tech 2 dual packs and haven't had no trouble with it. Altho, I don't have sound in my steamers so... At least not of yet anyway, and I'm running some really large HO scale steamers! I'm sure that someone here can and will help you.. Just give some time for them to see your posting on your problem.... As for layout and all..... What railroad you modeling? Time Period etc???? I hope you find TrainBoard friendly an helpfull... Visit offen! Someones almost always around! As our members are from around the globe... Worldwide! Again WELCOME ABOARD!
Thanks for the warm welcome. The layout is not modeled after any specific RR. For the most part we are in the late 50's to early 60's. As a follow up to my earlier question, I have seen some information on a company called Grizzly Mountain Engineering that makes a system like the ol' PFM. Does anyone have any good/bad experience with their product?
