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Messages - richd286

#1
When I read any CV on the service track I get a value of 255.   I have programmed different values in various CVs and can see the expected effect in engine performance so I believe the CV values are changing.  Does anyone have experience with this CV read problem.  I have a ProBox wired correctly.  Thanks.
#2
N / Re: EZ-Track Double turnout problem
February 28, 2016, 09:43:10 AM
my crossovers are wired to provide pass through polarity on the assumption that the crossover and approaches are the same or a common cab source.  I would think that if the crossover is a transitional piece between blocks it must be isolated and powered separately. I don't see a crossover as a powered block separator but rather pass through power integrity.
#3
HO / DCC metal frog polarity not changing with turnout
February 28, 2016, 09:19:08 AM
I have 2 Bachmann #6 turnouts that short whenever an engine touches them when set to straight, engines pass over the frog just fine when diverging but the frog polarity shorts when in straight through position.  The polarity of the track from all directions to the turnout is consistent.  I don't run a lot of small engines so I never used the powered frog connection under the turnout.  I have checked the gaps between the rails leading to the turnout and they are isolated.  So there must be something in the frog/decoder that would change polarity when changing directions.  I have 3 crossovers that work perfectly.  Any ideas?

#4
HO / Re: programming CVs
September 04, 2013, 08:20:31 AM
Each engine has its own characteristics.  Consider the weight and service type for each prototype and program the CVs accordingly. 
#5
HO / Bachmann Turntable Rail Head Alignment
August 18, 2013, 02:24:20 PM
I added the motorized DCC turntable to my layout.  I have noticed that some of the connecting tracks end up at a different height when the turntable aligns with it.  The turn table track is noticeably lower and most engines get hung up trying to make the "step" up to exit the turntable.  Is there any adjustment that can be made.  I think this is one for Mr. Bach Man.   Thanks
#6
press programming button on turnout,  points toggle back and forth to signal programming mode

press accessory button on handheld

enter address you will use to select turnout

press turnout action button on handheld

turnout will toggle again to acknowledge

done
#7
On the topic of signalling,  I have read but not attempted to install a stationary accessory decoder near the turnout with the same address.  The concept is that when you direct the turnout, all decoders with that accessory address are activated. so the accessory could swing and/or flash when the turnout is thrown.
#8
EZ Command is the reasonably priced entry level item, with it you can control more than one engine.  DCC turnouts keeps the action through the controller.  EZ Command has limited programming and you will want an upgrade eventually as your skill level increases.  After a year of track expansions and added turnouts I jumped to a Dynamis wireless.  I was able to control everything through the hand held anywhere in the room.  The EZ Command controller is now the power source at my work/repair bench.
#9
I have long been interested in model railroading and after 20+ years I dug out all my old stuff and started reading about current technology and techniques.  Amazing advancements.  What I learned:
DCC is the future and if you are interested in expanding, its the way to go.
Bachmann EZ track comes in two types nickle silver alloy (gray roadbed) and steel ( black roadbed )  nickle does not oxidize like steel and is far more reliable for consistent running.

The starter set you reference is not DCC and comes with black road bed track.  From your posting these are not where you want to go.

I suggest you find the Bachmann item that includes the EZ Command controller pack that comes with a locomotive, they come with either  steam or diesel engine.  Its a great value.

Look online for a track deal.   E-Bay often has sellers who have lots of gray roadbed track packages and sometimes a manual turnout is included.  If you can spend the $ a DCC turnout is a very satisfying addition.

Now you can look around for rolling stock of your choice and a caboose that matches your engine's road name. 

I think I've seen a DCC starter set at my LHS so you might find one that has all the latest technology and quality you'll enjoy.

RD


#10
HO / Re: dynamis probox set up help.
June 07, 2013, 08:16:04 AM
The isolated service track should only have one loco during programming.  Also, make sure the loco/tender wheels have not crossed the insulated joiners and connected to the track beyond,  the entire system becomes a service track and takes the instruction.   I won't let that happen again!!
#11
HO / Re: Bachmann Turntable and dcc
May 09, 2013, 10:22:31 PM
The decoder allows you to treat the turntable as another mobile decoder ( like an engine). default for new decoder is 3,  change address to whatever # you wish.  The speed adjustment of the turntable is controlled like the speed  of an engine.
#12
HO / Re: Sheds for e-z track turntable.
April 13, 2013, 10:20:24 PM
openings and doors seem ample for any HO scale engine.  The only limitation is the turntable bridge is 10" long.  All diesels pass fine,  and the largest steam loco I can turn is a 2-6-0.   I can get a larger loco into the shed if it is the one straight ahead of the access track 
#13
HO / Re: Sheds for e-z track turntable.
April 13, 2013, 12:51:44 PM

tidmouth sheds can be used with the e-z track DCC turntable, turntable base includes slots to anchor the shed side walls in exactly the same way as the manual turntable is attached
#14
HO / Re: Re-Railers????
April 01, 2013, 10:48:22 PM
Bachmann must have a 100,000 rerailers out there and is not likely to own up.  They are useful as a power connector and serve setting a car onto the tracks by hand if you move the trucks perpendicular to the track until the flanges seat.  That's the only use I get out of them.  I have tested fitted running a fine wire down the groove on the outer edge of the rail that would roll the flange over into the flange way but have other tasks are on the priority list to do and have not put it into operation.  I bet there are any number of solutions to fill the groove.  Get out your magnifying glass and check out the groove.  Maybe a gap filler glue bead?
#15
HO / Re: Re-Railers????
April 01, 2013, 08:06:20 AM
This is an old discussion.  There is a flaw in the Bachmann rerailer.  There is a small channel on the outer edge of the rail that snags the flange and stops it from crossing over the rail head.  Ever notice that when you are placing a car on the tracks it takes a lot of "passes" to get it to seat correctly and sometimes you have to manually drop the wheel into the flangeway.  This discussion is not about track/wheel mechanics which is always a worthy discussion but rather the Bachmann rerailer.  I have an Atlas rerailer that gets the job done in one pass every time.