Optichuffer

Description

Synchronize your steam locomotive chuffs like never before with the Optichuffer.  No more unsynchronized “good enough” auto-chuffs, unreliable reed switches, difficult to install Hall sensors, and magnets getting lost or binding your mechanism.  Designed for ESU LokSound 4.0, Select, and 5.0 decoders (We’re working on others!), the Optichuffer uses a painted part of your locomotive’s mechanism, hidden out of sight, to time the chuffs, and give you accurate chuffs exactly when they are called for.  It’s small size will fit almost any HO scale steam locomotive, and it’s rapid response time will allow it’s installation in almost any conceivable mechanism.

We designed the Optichuffer out of our own frustrations with discreetly hiding reed switches or hall sensors, and magnets constantly falling off the locomotive drive wheels, even with superglue.  We even hacked apart our owner’s custom painted steam locomotive to provide a working demonstration, but don’t tell them that!

Installation is comparatively easy, though it may require some modification of the locomotive’s frame or weight, depending on what part you decide to paint as the sensor wheel and how much space there is inside.  Once installed, you can pretty much forget about it.  A little dusting when you do your lubrication should be all that is needed.

Compatibility Notes: This sensor has been tested to work with ESU LokSound 4.0, Select, and 5 decoders.  We’re working on making it compatible with TCS WowSound.  Unfortunately, Soundtraxx Tsunami2 and Econami decoders are not equipped with any sensor leads and thus cannot be used with the Optichuffer (or any external chuff sensor).

This product is not compatible with compound (articulated) steam locomotives such as the Big Boys, Challengers, or Norfolk and Western A class at this time, due to the dual-engine nature of these locomotives.  It can be used with geared steam locomotives, such as Shay, Heisler, and Climax, however.

Drivetrain Notes: Some locomotives do not have an easily-divided gear train.  For example, one revolution of the drivers may be 17 or 23 revolutions of the motor, or some fraction of a whole.  This is known as gear reduction.  Every model is different, and those that have reduction ratios not an even number may be unable to precisely dial in the number of cycles per quarter revolution of the drivers.  It is up to the modeler to determine the installation location and method best suited for the individual model.  Milepost 93 Models will not offer refunds or reimbursement for sensors, installations or models that cannot be synchronized due to the nature of their drive trains.

WARNING: This product may require modification and/or removal of material within the model.  The modeler assumes all responsibility for any damages resulting from the installation of our product.