I have a Bachmann 4-8-4 Northern and recently replaced the Bachmann decoder with a SoundTraxx Tsunami “heavy steam”. It improved the overall operation and the sound was greatly improved. But I notice when I put the headlight on (function “o”), an additional noise starts up. I can only describe it as a kind of a hum or “generator” noise that is very noticeable when the engine is sitting still. When I turn “off” the lights, the noise stops and just the other normal “sounds” of the steam engine are heard. Before I contact SoundTraxx, does anyone know what might cause this? It does not seem to affect how the locomotive runs and it does not cancel out the other steam sounds. JRP
What you describe is the steam driven electric generator!
As a (real) steamer have no other way of making electricity for the lights, that sound is inevitable…
If you look around on youtube, you will find several examples of the sound!
I can agree that it is a very irritating sound if kept at factory levels though…
If you look in the manual you’ll see which CV to change to reduce the volume of it!
I looked it up, and it’s CV 133!
Try a value in it and hear the difference. Start with a low number (maybe 30…), and adjust accordingly.
Good luck.
IMHO both generator whine and brake ‘squeal’ are best if kept at a fairly low volume.
[2c]