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.
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 trainman9@aol.com.
Good luck.
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.
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.
The capacitor is a special bi-polar electrolytic. I don’t think you’ll find it at Radio Shack.