Protosounds 2.0 Upgrade for
Lionel Locomotives

Lionel locomotives present a challenge, as there are three different types of motors inside Lionel locomotives. The motor types are more of a concern than space is. Most pre-1999 Lionel locomotives are equipped with either an AC Pulmor type motor or the smaller low amperage DC can motors, which are mounted inside the trucks. Currently Protosounds 2.0 will not operate open frame AC motors, however, we are in the process of adapting the Protosounds 2.0 boards to operate AC motors, please stay tuned for more information on the development of this! The smaller DC can motors that are mounted perpendicular to the wheels, inside the trucks do not have flywheels, nor can flywheels be added, so locomotives with these smaller can motors cannot be converted to Protosounds 2.0, but can be converted to TMCC using any of our numerous TMCC upgrade kits, for more information on TMCC upgrades for the smaller can motors please click here;
TMCC upgrades for locomotives

Lionel locomotives that are equipped with DC can motors with flywheels CAN be converted to Protosounds 2.0. There are numerous Lionel locomotives in circulation that are in fact equipped with can motors that have flywheels. These locomotives include both steam and diesel locomotives. TAStudios can install Protosounds 2.0 in virtually all of these DC can motor equipped locmotives. Lionel locomotives that are equipped with fan driven smoke units can have the smoke unit modified to work with Proto 2.0 electronics so steam locomotives will puff in sync with the chuffing sounds and you will be able to control the smoke volume from the remote.

If you are unsure about your specific application please contact us we can assist you in clarifying exactly what can be done with your locomotives, which specific components to use and how much it will all cost.

Each Protosounds 2.0 upgrade features

• Proto Speed Control - Run locomotives at constant speeds up and down grades, through curves with and without loads, regardless of track conditions.

• Proto-Coupler Operation - Uncouple your train at any time in conventional and command modes.

• Variable Proto-Smoke Control - Control diesel and steam smoke output with four different settings (requires a fan driven smoke unit).

• Protosound 2.0 Digital Sound & Control Effects - Full Command control features and CD-like quality.

• Software Upgradeable Design - Enhance locomotives with new features or sounds as they are created.

Special Attention for Accurate Control

Protosounds 2.0 electronics require a precise combination of variables for the accurate performance of the speed control portion and chuff rate on all locomotives. While most Lionel locomotives have no standard gear ratio, flywheel diameter or driver diameter this presents a problem for the normal Protosounds 2.0 upgrade kit flywheel stripes. TAStudios takes the time calculate all of these variables and to develop and print the correctly spaced flywheel tapes to match the speed step performance of a factory equipped Protosounds 2.0 locomotive. This extra step ensures your locomotive produces an accurate 4 chuffs per revolution of the drivers and complete lash up compatibility with other MTH locomotives. This step is often overlooked in the conversion of non-MTH locomotives!

 

When TAStudios converts your locomotive to Protosounds 2.0 every component removed from your locomotive will be returned to you.

Each Installation includes complete installation of Protosounds 2.0 electronics, charged back up battery, battery charging port, smoke unit modification (if originally equipped with fan driven smoke unit or separate installation), Smoke on/off switch, new low voltage coil couplers, new tether (for steam locomotives), complete programming of your new sound file and thorough testing of the locomotive on our test layout.

Return shipping is charged to all installations. Please contact us prior to sending your locomotive for current lead times.