Help! I am having issues with my new E8 ProtoSound set. When I placed on the track for the first time and powered up all I heard and hear are three start up sounds (brake release). I hear no "clinks" bells, etc. I followed instructions to move forward. I have followed instructions to reset, tried to unlock but get no results. I went out and bought a new battery and replaced it just in case and the same happens. Light do come on. I am new to this so any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Shar-pei18, first off welcome to TrainBoard! Second: Is your Rail King E8's Proto 1 or the new Proto 2? Third: What transformer are you using? Is it a standard AC unit or one of the command set ups from Lionel (Trainmaster Command) or MTH (DCS)? My first bit of advice is to place your locomotive on the track, then apply track power and let it sit. Even if you have a new battery it has to be charged. Many of my older Proto1 had their batterys die. To fix this I bought new batteries and placed the locomotives on the tracks at 18 volts and let them charge for 14 hours (over night) If your engines are Proto2, then we can check into another option. Jim
Thanks for replying. I believe it is the "Proto-Sound" 1 DCRU having all the sound and chatter functions. I am looking at the manual and it does not specifically say "1". I have let the new battery sit with power on for a couple of hours. When I power up the head lights appear very bright. I am using the MTH 750 transformer.
Yes you have a Proto 1, only the Proto 2s say they are Proto 2. Did you say you just bought this in a new set? If so check and see if the shop you bought it from is an MTH Service Center, if not call MTH Service. It sounds like the board is scrambled. A service center can fix a scrambled board and if this unit is new (30 days if memory serves right). In other words, MTH should fix it free of charge through a Service Center or direct. Keep us informed as to what happens. Jim
I have a tip for you, if its a Mikes train house early proto sound units, aka proto sound 1, you need to get a new transformer. i spent several hours confused as to why its not work, turns out, it was the transformer, so my recommendations are to sell your current one or return to hobby shop you purchased from, and purchase one with strait line AC... the most common of these are you either Mikes train house Z-4000 or a ZW. I vote ZW due to the fact that they have been around for several years and durable... im sure the z-4000 is a good unit, but they are pricey you can get yourself a nize ZW for about 150 or so... buy from a reputable person though, but they are an easy rebuild. also buy the ever lasting battery... they are called a capacitor battery, so you never replace them! see my thread about my MTH F-3s... that will shed lots of light on the subject
Shar-pei18- This definitely sounds like something you should take to an approved service center. Also, welcome to TrainBoard! Boxcab E50
Would agree on both counts, either not enough power from current power supply, or locomotive electronics are hosed. Personaly, I'd suggest getting the MTH Z-4000. Has 390 watts power to handle just about everything you can throw at it! Internal fan cooled as well, so it can handle heavier loads for longer periods of time. I run multiple trains during my railroad clubs yearly show. Multiple powered locomotives, lighted passenger cars etc....nd the Z-4K handles them all very well, for being run up to 8 hours a day! Also one of the rare options I have for getting my 3 rail stuff out and running the #%$^& out of it! When basement is finished off, I'll finally be able to get my stuff out of boxes on up on shelves, where it can been seen!
