SoundTraxx Tsunami Steam Users Guide - Manual (Page 6)

Tsunami Steam Sound User’s Guide Page 3
Blow the Whistle
Engineers are required to blow various whistle signals to warn of the
approaching train as well as notify both passengers and train crew to the
planned movement of the locomotive. Some of these are signals for grade
crossings, stopping, moving forward, backing up and more.
Learning and using the various whistle signals can add a lot of fun to your
operating sessions! Some of the more common signals are indicated here.
To activate the Whistle, press F2 on your cab: the longer you press the key,
the longer the whistle will blow. While this allows you to make short or long
signals, F3 is designated as a ‘short’ whistle so your shorts will have that
nice, crisp, ‘toot’ regardless of how responsive your cab controls are…try a
grade crossing whistle!
Blow Down the Boiler
If your steam engine’s been sitting in the station awhile, there’s bound to be
some particle buildup in the boiler. Press the F4 key to open the blowdown
valve and blow out the sediment. Press the F4 key again to close the
blowdown valve.
Automatic Steam Sound Functions
Some sound effects happen in response to an action other than pressing a
function key. The blowers will automatically simmer in the background to help
vent the steam and keep up a good draft.
Airpumps
Brakes on trains operate using air pressure. When the engineer activates
the brakes, he is releasing air pressure, forcing the brake shoes against the
wheels and causing the train to slow down. When the engine stops the air
pressure is build up using a compressor, also called an airpump. The air
pumps will pound out a steadily slowing cadence that simulates the build up
of air pressure in the main reservoir. Deceleration of the locomotive while
applying the brakes will cause the air pump to resume pumping.
More Automatic Sound Functions on Next Page
Operation
Whistle Signals
Note: = Short Blast — = Long Blast
— — — Approaching Grade Crossing. (Hold final blast until crossing
is reached.)
— Approaching a bridge or tunnel
Stop, set brakes
— — Release brakes and proceed forward
Backup
Request signal from Trainman
— Warning whistle, used when approaching points where
view is obstructed.