ProtoSmoke® Unit Operation
This diesel locomotive contains a Proto-Sound 2.0 controlled smoke unit that
outputs smoke through the smkestack on the roof of the engine. The smoke unit
is essentially a small heating element and wick that soaks up and then heats a
mineral oil-based fluid that emits smoke. The smoke is then forced out of the
stack by a small electric fan. Smoke volume is controlled by the Proto-Sound 2.0
system.
With a few easy maintenance steps, you should enjoy trouble-free smoke unit
operation for years.
When preparing to run this engine, add 15-20 drops of smoke fluid through the
smokestack (see Fig.2). We recommend M.T.H. ProtoSmoke, Seuthe, LGB, or
LVTS fluids. Do not overfill the unit or the fluid may leak out and coat the interior
engine components.
To adjust the amount of smoke produced, turn the smoke unit volume control
clockwise to increase the amount of smoke, or counter-clockwise to reduce the
amount (see Fig. 3)
If you choose not to add smoke fluid (or have already added fluid but choose to
run smoke-free), turn off the smoke unit by turning the smoke unit volume
control fully counter-clockwise (see Fig. 3).
Failure either to add fluid to the
smoke unit or to turn it off may damage the smoke unit heating element
and/or wicking material.
When the smoke output while running the engine begins to diminish, add another
10-15 drops of smoke fluid or turn the smoke unit off.
When storing the unit for long periods of time, you may want to add about 15
drops of fluid to prevent the wick from drying out.
After removing the engine from storage, add another 25 drops of fluid, letting the
wick soak up the fluid for 15 minutes prior to operation.
If you experience poor or no smoke output when the smoke unit is on and has
fluid, check the wick to see if it has become hard, blackened, and unabsorbent
around the heating element. After removing the locomotive body from its chassis
(See Figure 6), remove the smoke unit inspection cover (see Fig. 11). After
removing the inspection cover screws, lift the inspection plate away and inspect the
wick. If it is darkly discolored and hard, it should be replaced.
Replacement parts and wick replacement instructions are available directly from
the M.T.H. Parts Department (order online: www.mth-railking.com, e-mail:
[email protected]; mail: 7020 Columbia Gateway Drive, Columbia MD
21046-1532, FAX: 410-381-6122).
Railking Scale GP-20 Diesel Engine Proto-Sound®2.0
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