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Messages - Yampa Bob

#226
General Discussion / Re: DCC and Sound Decoder
May 21, 2009, 02:40:20 AM
Are you running DC or DCC? If DCC what is the brand/model of your controller? This information is vital for set up procedure.

For the Dash you have two possible options, either a replacement board with sound, or a sound decoder with 8 pin plug to connect to the existing onboard socket. 

This sound board is designed for the Athearn Genesis diesels, but has the correct prime mover sounds for the Dash. Soundtraxx # 828056 TSU-GN1000 GE FDL-16.
This board is a new release, I cannot confirm it will work properly with your Bachmann locomotive, suggest calling Soundtraxx technical support for more information.

http://www.soundtraxx.com/dsd/tsunami/index.php?p=1000gn.php

Plug in Tsunami (9 pin to 8 pin adapter harness required). Soundtraxx # 827107 TSU-1000  GE FDL-16.  I suggest this option as it is much simpler to install.

http://www.soundtraxx.com/dsd/tsunami/index.php?p=1000.php

You will need a small oval speaker with front enclosure. Speaker can be placed high inside the shell, directly under the horn area, without drilling any holes. This is my preferred method for diesel installs, the sound is excellent with adequate volume.  I have part numbers for speaker and enclosure if you want them.

A **programming booster may be required, depending on your controller.
http://www.soundtraxx.com/access/index.php?p=ptb100.php

If running DC, a DCC controller capable of adjusting CVs is required to enable analog operation on user installed Tsunamis.  If you have the **Bachmann EZ Command DCC controller, it will be a plug and play, ready to run installation. (except for soldering wires to a speaker.)

**I use EZ Command, I can't verify setup with other controllers.

If you opt for the plug in version, please read the following regarding the shrink tubing on the decoder.
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,8263.0.html

Regards.
#227
Hi CALRR,
Make sure the 4 pin socket from the locomotive is inserted fully into the tender connector. Two wires in this connector go to the motor, the other two for the headlight.

If the headlight is working, but not the motor, then you may have a loose or broken wire leading to the motor.

To aid in your troubleshooting, refer to the following thread, through the 6th post.

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,7439.0.html

Note in the second picture, the red and black wires (colors may vary) leading from the circuit board to the back of the 4 pin male connector. If you have a spare DC power pack, or even a 9 volt battery with leads, try to jump DC power directly to the motor.

To remove the tender shell, first remove the screw in the bottom. Swivel the front truck as shown for access to the screw. Lift the shell front up, then slide shell forward a bit to clear the two catches at the rear. DO NOT remove any wheels as they must be oriented as shown.

Another way to "jump" the motor (tender disconnected) is by connecting DC power to the two pins in the female socket on the locomotive, but you will need tiny wires to insert into the connector. (correct pin size is .015")

NOTE: This point should be obvious....all "jumping" mentioned above is done OFF the tracks.

Keep us posted on your progress.

Regards.
#228
HO / Re: RF-16 DCC Question
May 20, 2009, 02:10:13 AM
Jim just logged off, guess he needs his beauty sleep.  :D

If no one else comments, check back tomorrow. Oops, it is "tomorrow".   8)

Good luck and good morning.
#229
HO / Re: Tortise and Atlas turnout switch
May 20, 2009, 01:33:21 AM
Rick,
PD uses his teeth....when he's not trimming his toenails. Out here we call that "Hoof in Mouth" syndrome.  :D  :D

I've never used the transition joiners, don't have a clue how the overall height difference is compensated. 
#230
HO / Re: RF-16 DCC Question
May 20, 2009, 12:56:11 AM
Michael,
The specs should be the same for the board version. As to programming a Bachmann non-sound decoder with Zephyr, I think the workaround is to "place a 1000 Ohm resistor across the programming track."  Please stay tuned, Jim Banner and others will be in with more details.

I have the Bachmann EZ Command, which means I understand CVs, just not on "speaking terms" with them.  :D

Bob
#231
HO / Re: RF-16 DCC Question
May 20, 2009, 12:16:44 AM
Hi Michael,
Here's a link to the Bachmann decoder instruction PDF, supported CVs are listed on page 2.  Note that CV19 is supported.

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/ez_content/1_Amp_Decoder_Instr.pdf

Regards.
#232
General Discussion / Re: Time Ratio
May 19, 2009, 07:34:36 AM
Here's some more information:
http://home.earthlink.net/~mrsvc/id27.html
#233
HO / Re: 4-6-0 tender
May 19, 2009, 07:18:50 AM
If you're considering swapping tenders, you might want to read the following thread through the 6th post.

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,7439.0.html

Regards.
#234
HO / Re: Tortise and Atlas turnout switch
May 19, 2009, 01:21:23 AM
The page I linked to are for transition joiners, to connect 83 to 100. They are a bit pricey, only 12 for $3.00.
#236
General Discussion / Re: Shelf Sanity
May 18, 2009, 01:55:44 AM
For those with minimal space, I think a shelf layout is a great idea. I certainly would never criticize anyone who likes the challenge of switching and solving puzzles.  Every modeler has a preference for layout and operation.

Our layout represents a point to point between two large yards. For our own convenience we chose to wrap it up into a loop on a 4 X 8, using the center for our extensive yards.

We have 4 feet of clearance on both sides of the layout, and 6 feet of clearance on the ends.  Our trains never "chase their tail" as we never have more than 8 to 10 cars hooked up.

#237
I have a bunch of plastic "job trays", they measure 9" X 6" X 2" deep. The loco and loose parts stay in the tray until the job is done.
#238
Hi Rob
As Jim mentioned, there is an error in the instruction manual. For more detailed information please refer to the following thread:

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,8893.0.html

I also have EZ Command, and love the simplicity of operation.

Regards
#239
Hi Dapper,
You might also check out the Soundtraxx site. They make excellent sound decoders, each tailored to the prime mover of each generation of locomotive. You can listen to actual sound samples of their decoders.

http://www.soundtraxx.com

The decoders are a bit pricey, but the sound is great. To use in your K4, you would need a 9 pin to 8 pin adapter harness, readily available from most sources. I don't know where you are, but I get all my train supplies from Caboose Hobbies in Denver.
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/index_home.php

Regards
#240
General Discussion / Re: Handy Train Controller
May 17, 2009, 01:12:25 PM
Erik,
My friend actually made reference to a "mobile phone", that might translate to "cordless phone" over here.  As often mentioned, we are a common people separated only by an ocean and the "English" language.  :D

I searched and found this site, I'll pass it along:
http://www.lenz.com/products/xpressnet/xpa.htm

Thanks for the information.

Ray, Ain't it the truth. We have two cell phones, my wife insists I leave mine on so she can keep track of me.   8)