I just got a brand new MTH Rio Grande SD-9 Diesel Engine 20-2113-1. It was new old stock of course but never the less new. I attempted to run it with my Z 1000 transformer and I had the initial start up sounds but couldn't get it to move. I then attempted to use my ZW 275 watter. It ran perfectly until I connected the bell button. I fired up the transformer after connecting the bell button and poof a puff of electrical smoke and that's all she wrote for the Proto 1 board. I cantacted MTH for repairs and I was told that as long as the locomotive was bought from an authorized dealer regardless of the manufacturing date it still under warranty and they will repair. The warranty cards says 5 years after the manufacturing date but I was ensured they would do the repairs under warranty and heres why. They are aware of the problem with some Proto 1 boards not working with the Z 1000 and then burning up with the other transformers. So if you have a Proto 1 that has fried with no neglect from you and it's new send MTH an e-mail requesting an RMA. I was unaware of this as I think a lot of people are so I thought I would pass it on.
Kevin
Can't stop working on the railroad!
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