3
RailKing Dash-8 Operating Manual
QUICK START - BASIC OPERATION
The RailKing Dash-8 contains state-of-the art electronics with several
built-in automatic features for incredibly realistic operation. Despite these
advanced features, the Dash-8 is easy to operate with any compatible
standard AC transformer (see the compatibility chart on page 35).
All models are controlled by a ProtoSound® DCRU® electronic reverse
unit. The reverse unit operates in the same manner that all reverse units
function by using forward, neutral and reverse states that are entered each
time the throttle is turned on and off or by using the transformer direction
switch (if so equipped).
The reverse unit is designed to
ignore dirty track, dead spots on
switches or minor short circuits
without disrupting the engine
operation, even at slow, prototypical
speeds. Once the engine is placed
on the track, the throttle on the
transformer can be advanced. You
will see that only the engine’s lights
come on and that only two dings of
the ProtoSound® bell occur
followed by the diesel start-up
sounds (on ProtoSound® equipped 3-rail models). The engine does not run.
This is known as the RESET state
and is explained in more detail
beginning on Page 4. The
ProtoSound® DCRU® will not
power the motors until the throttle
is turned OFF and then ON again.
At this point, the engine will now
function just like any other
electronic or mechanical E-unit. On ProtoSound® equipped engines, the
diesel engine sounds will change in volume as the engine begins to move.
The horn can be activated by pressing the whistle button on the transformer
just as any horn would be activated. See the sections later in this guide,
beginning on page 5, for more information on activating the horn and bell
sounds.
DCRU®
Lockout Switch
Figure 1: ProtoSound® DCRU® Lockout Switch
RESET
Neutral
Reverse
Neutral
Forward
Figure 2: DCRU™ Cycle Phases
