"The MP-15s are jack rabbits. CTT did a comparison of low end locos and tested an Mp-15. I think its starting speed was around 40 scale miles an hour. I think it topped out at 200 mph! They are geared way high. I dont know if there is a solution."
Yes folks, as I said - there IS a solution and that is to run these kinds of locos with any transformer that starts with a ZERO output to the track. I'm sure when CTT tested this loco, they probably used some larger transformer with the minimal 6 volt start to the track. Matter of fact, most postwar and MPC Lionel transformers - large and small - all start off with a minimal 6-8 volts to the track.
Even the no-frills basic K-Line transformer included in most early K-Line sets starts at zero volts to the track, although it does go up to 18 volts which of course, will make these engines FLY!
I'm using the Lionel 1033 with the B-U voltage setting (0-11 volts) and I CAN AND DO RUN THESE ENGINES VERY SLOW! I've got no secret solution folks. If I can do this, any one else can by using the 1033 with the B-U setting.
And I do not have one single loco wired in series, and I can STILL run them slow.
Granted, I make a lot of alterations and changes to my locos. And I also run my layout on converted DC power. But heck, even the few locos I have that still have circuit boards in them, and that have not been altered yet, can STILL run SLOW on AC power to the track via the 1033. If I can do this, you can do this.
The Lionel 1033 is the solution in one simple sentance. Buy one, and the problems end.
I've always said the Lionel 1033 is without question, hands down, the best Lionel transformer ever made for the money. That B-U voltage setting is a charmer for these truck mounted can motored locos. And it's easy enough to switch to the A-U setting (6-18 volts) for my older postwar/MPC locos with open frame AC motors that require a little more power.
PS: Paul, I too hate referring to these kinds of locos as cheap. But if that's what folks want to call them, I say I'd rather spend LESS money on my trains and have FAR MORE FUN with them, than spend more money on trains loaded with all kinds of features that fail to work, details that break off easily and that cause more frustration than fun.
There are times in life when less is actually much much more, and our train hobby is becoming just like that.
