How to Activate PFA on MTH Genesis 20-2189

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Hi,

I operate a Lionel “O” layout using a ZW transformer. I recently purchased an MTH Amtrak Genesis diesel 20-2189. The diesel runs great but the only features I’m able to use are the horn and whistle using the buttons on my ZW.

I am unable to initiate the PFA station announcements using the directions contained in the owners manual. I have contacted Marian Rankin at MTH tech support. She suggested I replace the nickel-cad battery which I did. She told me to reset all factory feature pre-sets using Reset 18 which I did. I am still unable to get the station sounds to play when I activate the PFA by ringing the bell on my ZW for 3 seconds and halting the engine in neutral. When I halt the engine in neutral instead of the station sounds announcements I hear the intermittent crew talk communication.

I have also called MTH tech support and let the technician walk me thru the activation steps while he listened to the sounds from the diesel. Still no success.

Does anyone have any troubleshooting steps I could try?

Thanks,

Lee Smith
maxxdixiecleo@hotmail.com
phone: (248) 377-5529 (work 6:30-3:30 EST) [:(]

2

This reminds me of my experience with my MTH Big Boy. I fixed it with a Lionel e-unit.

3

Hi michiganutfan.

Welcome to the CTT forum.

It’s been so long since we used the Station Announcements , we had to put one of our PS1 engines on the track and try it.

We will do it from the basics.

When you start the engine it is in neutral. Go thru forward, neutral, reveries, neutral. Now set the PFA by having the voltage at about 8 to10 volts and pu***he whistle button. This should set it.

Now put the engine in forward with the directional button. The next time use stop the engine with the direction button, the PAF should start. There is 4 parts to it. By using the direction button, it will cycle thru the 4 parts and then the engine should start forward again.

Hope this works for you


tom