Shay Electronics

Control

All electronic components (except batteries) are manufactured by Keithco, Inc and marketed as the Locolinc system. Locolinc has been very responsive in helping diagnose and repair problems.

On-board Battery Power

The Shay uses an on-board 13.8V, 1.2 amp-hour lead-acid battery. Although track power is not required, 13.8 VDC can be applied to the track as primary power with the battery acting as a backup to extend running time. The Locolinc electronics module automatically selects either track power (if it is available), or the on-board battery, to power the locomotive. A Locolinc battery charger is mounted in the Shay's coal bunker and the battery is charged by simply letting the locomotive sit on the powered track.

Auxiliary Battery Power

A second battery is mounted in a passenger/baggage combine car and can be selected using a toggle on the water tank. A telephone cable carries current from the battery to the locomotive and power from the loco to passenger cars for interior lighting. This battery extends operating time to about 4 hours.

Sound

The Shay is equipped with a Locolinc sound chip and a 4 inch diameter speaker. The whistle, bell, and a few other sounds are controlled by buttons on the radio transmitter.

Installation

The total weight of the electronics and battery installed in the locomotive approximately equals that of the lead weight (installed at the factory) that was removed to make space for the installation. So, all weight is on the drivers and the loco weighs about the same as it did before the conversion.

The Shay can pull at least 11 cars up the 7.2% grades on the layout.