This is an archive of the 2-8-0 status page, as of 1/30/2006. We are keeping
it as it describes the issues with the first run of the 2-8-0s. The current
status is here.
DC and code 110 versions in production. Arrival in NJ expected March, 2006.
DCC Version: We have two 2-8-0s running with prototype DCC interface boards that are being tested with the Soundtraxx Tsunami sound system. Once approved, we will start production of the interface circuit board that will allow a standard Tsunami to plug into our 2-8-0. If all goes well, we should see these later this winter. Update: We had two locomotives running with the prototype DCC adapter board and SoundTraxx Tsunami decoders at the Sringfield, Massachusetts show Jan 29 and 30th. One loco ran on the Bristol Club layout continuously from 8:30AM until 5:00PM Saturday and 9:00AM until 4:00PM Sunday pulling a 38 car train. The second loco was consisted with it all of Saturday morning and part of Sunday morning, the rest of the time it was on display duty. Both locomotives ran ran perfectly! We received lots of positive feedback, much of it expressing amazement that it is a production, and not a "brass" loco!
Here is some video of
the DCC locos running with the Tsunami sound, including some video shot
at the Springfield show.
AF compatible LocoMatic™ versions that arrived in NJ Wednesday, 12/14:
Schedule: A partial shipment of replacements arrived in New York by air 1/25. We expect to start shipping replacements this week. We were able to get the new locomotives to the West Springfield train show last weekend, and ran two of them coninuously on our demo layout all day both days. They ran (and smoked) great! We had many enthusiastic comments on the locomotives and on the LocoMatic™ sound!
Not all road names were
sent, the B&O #1 & #2 as well as the Southern
did not make the this shipment. The factory is now closed for Chinese New Year.
With the limited amount of time, our builder built as many replacement 2-8-0
as time allowed. The factory will open again the 2nd week in February and will
complete our entire 2-8-0 order.
Smoke Units: We
took the opportunity of the recall to learn why not all 2-8-0s smoke units
produce the same amount of smoke. Several changes
to the element
and wick wrapping were tried and the best approved, and all new units will
use these new methods. With these changes, we expect a consistent volume of
smoke
with
all units. Update: We ran units
with the new process smoke units at West Springfield, and all smoked well!
Status of return shipment of 2-8-0s back to China - Our builder has requested that recalled 2-8-0 be sent back to them the 2nd week of February. We need to return all units that:
1. Have continuity between the smoke/LED circuit
and
the boiler/chassis.
2. Any units that have not been tested for continuity.
3. Any units that do not smoke.
If you received a letter from us asking you to return the locomotive for replacement, please do so before Feb. 8. If you have a loco which has been tested for continuity either by you or by us and is ok, and it also smokes ok, then you don't need to return it. Remember, the fact that the locomotive runs is not a sufficient test. Locos with the continuity problem run fine until a derailment cause power to get to the chassis, which then damages the LocoMatic board.
The test for a short is easy if you have a VOM or Ohmmeter. Instructions are here. If you can't perform this test, or don't feel comfortable performing it, please call for a Return Authorization Number and we will replace the locomotive.
There is also an issue with the Dallee LocoMatic™ 2-8-0 sound board. This only occurs when the 2-8-0 first powers up and only applies when using the 10 button controller. Mode 1 with a standard AF transformer works fine. For mode 2 & 3, when the locomotive is placed on the track, it takes about 7 to 10 minutes until it responds correctly to the 10 button controller. Usually, when current is first applied to the 2-8-0 none of the buttons have an effect on the engine. In a few minutes, when the HORN is pressed, the whistle blows, the headlight comes on and the engine moves forward at half speed. The stop button is the next button to work and in a few minutes, all of the buttons work OK. Dallee has determined that the fix is to install a capacitor on the LocoMatic™ board. This completely fixes the problem. If your locomotive shipping box has a round orange sticker on it, then the extra capacitor has been added and you are all set. If it does not have the orange sticker, that you need to call or email us so that we can send you a capacitor for you to install, swap LocoMatic boards, or replace the locomotive. Instructions on adding a capacitor are here. If you are going to add the capacitor yourself, or swap LocoMatic boards, you need to be sure to check the locomotive for shorts.
If you want to send your unit back to us for replacement (please use our shipping box and packing), Please call us (800-465-0303) or email us for a Return Authorization Number before sending it back. Check here for packing/unpacking instructions.
Sorry for the trouble and delay. We are working absolutely as hard as we can
to get everything rectified as quickly as possible. These problems have all
been eliminated in the replacement units at the factory, and all units
being shipped now are the replacement units.
We have added a 2-8-0 FAQ page, and will add to it as questions come in.
