User's Manual

Answers to questions

Problem Solving

Everything is connected, but nothing’s happening.

• Check all power connections to track power transformers and the Command Base. Make sure each

component’s “on” lamp is illuminated (if applicable). Make sure the circuit breakers on your power

transformers are not tripped; reset them as necessary. Verify track voltage with a test light. If all connections

are secure and a lamp does not illuminate, contact your Lionel Customer Service for assistance.

• Verify that your CAB-1L and Base-1L are set to the same channel. Another nearby device may be operating on

the same frequency, try changing BOTH CAB-1L and Base-1L to a new channel and re-test.

The Command Base-1L’s green light is off.

• Make sure the Base’s power supply is properly plugged into a grounded 3-pin outlet. Also check the power

connector to ensure it is snug in the Command Base-1L’s power input. The green light should illuminate.

The Command Base-1L’s red light doesn’t blink when I send CAB-1L commands.

• Try a new location for the Command Base; CAB-1L communications are not being properly received. Press

WSTL/HORN and watch the red light for response (it should blink).

• Avoid metal surfaces when installing the Command Base-1L. Metal detunes the Base’s antenna and causes

poor reception. lf you must use a metal table or shelf, place a nonmetallic spacer at least 2” in height

between the Base-1L and the metal surface.

• Check CAB-lL’s alkaline batteries. Remove one battery; then reinstall it. Make sure batteries are fresh and

properly installed. You should hear a small “chirp” with every button press.

• Tum off any interfering electronic devices in your railroad area: tele visions, computers, WiFi devices and CB

radios.

I programmed my ENG ID, but the engine won’t move.

• Make sure the red light is blinking on the Command Base-1L when you send CAB-1L commands. This says

your CAB-1L commands are being received by the Command Base-1L.

• Check your wiring connection between the Base and either your power transformer or common rails. The

Base-1L’s communication wire should be attached to the common (U) binding post of your transformer or

the outisde rail.

• Make sure no derailments have occurred.

• Make sure your track has power by using a test light—for example, an illuminated freight or passenger car.

• Check track-power circuit breakers. Reset if necessary·

• Make certain there are no connections between your railroad and either earth ground or power-line ground.

• Reprogram the locomotive’s ID#. Slide the program/run switch to program. Put the locomotive on

unpowered track. Make sure the Command Base is on. Power up your track. Now, press ENG, the locomotive’s

ID#, and SET. The horn or whistle should sound, indicating receipt of the new programming. Slide the

switch back to run. Press ENG and the ID#, WSTL /HIRN or tum the throttle. Your locomotive should

respond.

I turned the throttle, but my locomotive doesn’t respond.

• Check batteries! Press any key to make sure CAB-1L is awake and try again. Check for blinking red light on

Base-1L while turning the throttle. Blinking indicates throttle commands are being sent; problem may be

with loco.

• Readdress the locomotive: press ENG and its ID number. It should now respond to any command button

press or throttle change.

My locomotive is acting kind of strange. How can I reset it?

• Presss AUXI and O on the keypad. This resets your locoomotive.

• Shut down the track power to the locomotive for 10 seconds after Raibounds finishes its shuts down

(assuming you have a battery installed in your loco). This restarts the computer inside your locomotive.