Scott,
Thanks for the quick reply and analysis of my problem. Since that 601 has had some other modifications, I suspect the horn was removed and a sound board added. It must have been subsequently removed prior to my purchase. I'll go with the soundboard - any suggestions as to a source? I will need help with the electrical installation, but perhaps I can get some guidance from Allan on that. I have an old horn with that "Beep", and don't like it at all.
I found a source of "Super Strong" coupler springs, and will try that before the rubber bands. Why the heck would Lionel produce such a great engine with poorly constructed couplers, then not produce a "fix"? I guess that is why some models have non-operating couplers. Are you aware of any replacement couplers perhaps from another model that would work? I note that it isn't just that the coupler opens, the whole spring and pin drops down out of the locking hole. I thought it had been dropped, but from what you are saying, this is a common problem.
I'll try to touch base with you or Allen at the Christmas display. I'm not familiar with that area at all. Is there an address, and are any times of operation determined yet? I'd love to bring my grandson to see it. He went last year in Cedar Park and really loved it. Once I find out when you or Allen might be there, I can plan my visit. Thanks for the help.
Regards,
Don
-----Original Message-----
From: scott a smiley <sc.smiley@juno.com>
To: ttat-members@aoot.com
Cc: ttat-members@aoot.com
Sent: Tue, Nov 3, 2009 9:52 pm
Subject: Re: New Member needs help
Don if there are parts broken on the coupler or missing I probably have them. Depending on what is the actual problem is, if all the pieces are there and the spring will not keep the pin up, then a small rubber band can be a quick fix. I use orthodontist bands.
As for the horn, the original parts do not sound like a real horn and any replacement like the original will not sound like real. Only the sound boards have authentic sounds. the early ones are more of an electronic horn and the latest are actual digital sounds and may even be recordings of horns. Sound boards can be installed into older engines without much difficulty. Allan is an expert in this modification. Some engines can be a little tight inside to hold the IC board but removal of the original horn stuff should make room for the board and the speaker. they are designed to run from the transformer controls or a command board in the engine. I will not make the NB show but will be around some weekends when we are set up down town and would be happy to look it over and see what can be done.
I probably have some old horns if you want the original beep sound.
Scott
I'm new with the club and still finding my way among the technology and price demons. I recently bought a Lionel 601 Diesel on E-Bay. However, the horn has been removed and the couplers do not want to stay closed. Two questions. Is there a horn Model Number that actually sounds like a multi-tone horn like a real diesel that I can put into the 601? I have the bracket but not the little round horn. How does the Diesel sound cicuit board work? Can it be installed and operated off the transformer "Whistle" button? Is there a fix for the coupler problem - other than Epoxy? Thanks for any input. Don Newman
-----Original Message-----
From: scott a smiley <sc.smiley@juno.com>
To: ttat-members@aoot.com
Sent: Wed, Oct 28, 2009 8:19 pm
Subject: New Member