Your MTH steam engine is equipped with a tetherless drawbar. There is no unsightly
cable or box showing between the engine and the tender to detract from the appearance
of the model. The electrical connections pass through conductors in the drawbar, so it is
important that the connector be properly inserted. The connector is fixed to the rear end
of the drawbar. The mating connector is attached to a swivel connection on the front of
the tender frame. The drawbar is connected to the engine chassis with a screw and
should not need any attention.
In order to mate the connectors of the drawbar and the tender, place the engine and the
tender on the track. Position the tender over the drawbar connector and insert the
drawbar pin on the swivel connector into the hole in the drawbar.
Now grasp the tender with both hands as shown below (in Fig. 8) and place a finger on
each side of the drawbar near the connector. Now using your fingers, push the
connectors together. The connector will make a slight click when it is properly
seated(in Fig. 9). At this point you are ready to begin operating your engine.
Placing The Engine On The Track
To disconnect the engine and tender apply downward pressure near the tender until the
connectors separate.
The drawbar is able to withstand a 90 degree twist such as might be experienced in a
derailment where the engine or the tender would turn over and the other unit would
remain upright.
If the drawbar is not properly connected your engine may exhibit erratic or no
operation. If this happens turn off the track power and make sure that the drawbar
connectors are properly seated. Then reapply power to the track and continue
operation.
Fig. 8: Pushing Connectors Together
Fig. 9: Connected Engine and Tender
Premier 2-4-1A Mountain Steam Locomotive
8
