protosound 2 and lionel transformers

[chadw]

I got an MTH SD 80 and when I ran it with my CW-80 transformer the horn blew continuously.  I switched the track power wires on the transformer and the bell rang.  I really need to know if there is a way to fix this because I can't afford a new transformer after buying a $475 loco.

[nblum]

There's an old trick that worked with other Lionel power supplies for PS1 locos  using an inexpensive capacitor  for  about $10 that was written up in the magazine some years ago.  The commercial version was called the Soundmaster and available from Ed Carter who is [e-mail].

Good luck.

[trainmasterz]

Chad,

I know exactly what your talking about we had the exact same thing happen.  Like the other guy said you can get a $10 capacator or you could just take it back and I'm sure they will be happy to give you credit towards a Lionel loco.  However, if MTH is what you want....and you cant rearrange your transformer to train relationship..............thus the indecision.

[Anonymous]

The problem is with the transformer. This does not mean that the transformer is defective. There is a compatability problem with the CW-80 and some sound systems. I don't know about this capacitor, what are the ratings. If you went into a store and just asked for a 10 dollar capacitor all you'ed ger are funny looks. What you can try before you do anything drastic is to get a 18 volt light, the kind that may be used in an accessory, and connect that accross the track where you connect the power. This often works and is cheeper and easier.

[chuck]

The capacitor is a special bi-polar electrolytic.  I don't think you'll find it at Radio Shack.