I've just purchased a non-sound version of the MT4. Added a TCS T1 decoder and the engine runs fine. But....number board lights don't work.
I know they work in the sound version and I've read that with function 7 turns them on/off unlike the Challenger and 4-8-4 which remain "on" as long as there is track power.
So...before I start removing the boiler shell to investigate, I'd like to know if anyone else has tackled this problem with the non-sound version. Did Athearn run a wire thru the harness to the tender/light board? If so, I just need to find it and connect to the decoder. I suspect that if they added bulbs to the number boards, the wires go nowhere. In that case, I'll probably just leave as is or maybe tie it into the headlight wire.
And yes, I've tried to reach Athearn. An e-mail 2 wks ago has not been answered. Tried calling them today, got an automated response that just said "good bye" I will try calling again next week.
Other than these lights, which is really a minor issue, this is the best running and one of the best looking steam engines I've ever owned. Out of the box, it creeps along at speed step 1 and moves smoothly through the speed range I normally operate at.
john
The TCS T-1 decoder does not support this function. You need to use the TCS T-4 decoder.
I have the sound version and the no. boards are NOT controlled by F7. They are controlled by F6, but since you don[t have the capability it's a moot point. And I'm not surprised that you didn't get a response from Athearn. They have been in the process of relocating for the last few weeks. I don't know if all lines of communication are up and running as they should be yet. Just an FYi.