how to fix sound in my bachmann g scale train.

[daddyrabbit]

just bought some used g scale trains.  ring master and suwannee river special.  the sound tender on the special is not working.  can it be fixed?  how do i take it apart? i have swapped tenders with ringermaster train and i get sound. the suwannee tender seems dead.  new batteries and all of that.  is it easy to repair? 

[RkyGriz]

They're pretty simple to work on. First, remove the 4 Phillips screws holding the chassis to the body. Pull the body away and inspect the 2 wires from the plug that are soldered to the PCB. If their connection is solid, then inspect the metal battery contacts and the attachment wires that run from the PCB to the battery tabs. Once you've verified that everything is properly connected and that the metal contacts are clean, reassemble the tender and test the sound. If there is still no sound coming from the unit, then it is highly probable that you will need to replace the PCB. A replacement PCB will cost you $40.00 plus shipping from Bachmann. Here is the direct link for the part:
http://estore.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=66_69_623&products_id=584
You can also order a replacement plug and wires for $8.00 if you find an issue with the internal pins in the plug upon inspecting the plug end where it enters the socket on the locomotive. Here is the direct link for that part from Bachmann:
http://estore.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=66_69_671_148&products_id=5225
You may find it cheaper and more expedient to buy a good used tender on Ebay from a reputable seller and then cannibalize the parts you need from it. Just make sure that the seller states that it's been tested and proven to function. I've done that for a custom job I did after I ruined the original tender by applying the clear coat too early over new paint. It wasn't pretty after that but the replacement is perfect. In fact, here's a video  of it. It's the Rio Grande #14  sitting on the siding.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDEZnfhLbDw
Just make sure to get one with metal wheels if you decide to go that route.
Hope this helps you!
Later,
Andrew

[Loco Bill Canelos]

Since the tender from both locos works fine on the ringmaster then the problem is in the tender of the swaunee.  It is extremely rare that the sound board fails.

I would start with the simple stuff before tearing into anything. Is the battery actually good? Double check  to make sure. Is the polarity correct when you installed it??  Sound does not work if the polarity is wrong.  Are all the switches on?  Check the red switch on the rear of the locomotive below the cab opening(if so equipped)is it in the on position?  Check the switch under the tender.  Is it on and is the volume turned all the way up?? If it still does not work recheck the battery to be absolutely sure it is new and fresh.  If you do not have a multimeter or battery tester swap batteries that work in the good tender and see if that helps.  The above instructions cover 99percent of the problems with the sound unit.

If you bought the sets used and do not have the instructions:  here is the link:
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,18832.0.html

Check out the instructions for sound.

Have fun with your new trains!

Bill

[daddyrabbit]

hi guys,
thanks for the responses.  i ended up having to pull the top off the tender and found a disconnected wire on the speaker.  a quick solder and it is working great!  Thanks!