Psycho decoder

[CSX_road_slug]

Is there something about TCS decoders that I should've been aware of before I attempted to install it?  I put a TCS-A4X in a 1992-vintage Kato SD40 (not a dash 2); when I tested it, it worked OK for a minute or two, then the loco suddenly changed direction and started running full speed - ignoring my commands.

When I tried to read the 2-digit address on the programming track, it said 'noPg' instead of the expected '003'.  I tested a few of my of decoder-equipped engines and they all worked fine.

Is there any way I could have avoided this?  I've installed Digitrax, Soundtrax, Lenz and NCE decoders before and never seen anything like this.  I have 5 other TCS decoder sitting unopened on my workbench - should I toss those as well?

[locoi1sa]

  CSX

 Most of the sixty decoders I have are TCS. I have never had a bad one. They have a goof proof warenty, The best in the buisness. Send it to them with a note telling them what its doing and Im sure they will make good. In the mean time try out another decoder or you can ship me the other TCS decoders. Ill be glad to take them if you toss them.

    Pete
 

[CSX_road_slug]

Thanx Pete

This is really more of a rant than anything else.  I'll try another one and if it does the same thing I guess I'll have to send them all to TCS like you said.  I've been spoiled by always having decoders work like they're supposed to when I install them - until today, that is! 

[locoi1sa]

  Ken

 No need to rant. Every manufacture is bound to have a couple lemons. Its how they take care of the problem that counts. Digitrax wanted to charge me $15 each to fix 2 decoders that popped on the program track. Both were plug in decoders. I only paid $16 for them. That was the last time I bought a Dco decoder.

    Pete
 

[cacole]

TCS decoders are some of the best on the market, and it sounds to me like you have a short in your wiring or the motor is not properly isolated.  Go back over all of your wiring and make sure everything is wired correctly, and no bare wires are touching at the ends of the decoder where the wires connected to it.  I always solder these connections instead of using the slip-on connectors that some manufacturers provide on their boards.

[CSX_road_slug]

I put in another TCS, and it appears to work OK! **fingers crossed**  I'll know for sure when I attempt to put the shell back on.  I try to position the wires so they wouldn't get pinched, but one of them still always seems to get in the way.

That first decoder musta been a lemon... Thanx for the replies everyone.  (..and yes, I am soldering all of my connections, not relying on the clip-on contacts) 

[simon1966]

TCS has the best decoder warranty.  I fried one myself due to an error in wiring and they even cover installation gaffs by the user.  They will stand by their product, of that you can be assured.