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db150 problems running locos

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  • Member since
    July 2008
  • 1,206 posts
Posted by mfm37 on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 5:17 PM

If they won't move on their new address but the functions can be controlled with the address, it sounds like they could be in a consist.

Place one on your program track and program CV19 to 00. Move it to the powered track and try running it on its address. If that works, do the same to the others. If it doesn't work, no harm will be done. Get back to us with the make and model of decoder in each engine if still no joy.

Martin Myers

  • Member since
    February 2010
  • From: Hillsboro, Oregon
  • 934 posts
Posted by Eric97123 on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 5:12 PM

I agree, it was the best upgrade I did to my layout.  Yes

  • Member since
    February 2002
  • From: Mpls/St.Paul
  • 13,892 posts
Posted by wjstix on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 4:47 PM

It's pretty easy to use insulated rail joiners to isolate a section of your layout and set that up as a programming track. Just use a DPDT (double pole double throw) switch from Radio Shack to switch the section from regular power to programming and back. It's nice to be able to change a CV and then throw the switch and test it without having to pick up the engine to move it to and from the programming track.

 

Stix
  • Member since
    February 2010
  • From: Hillsboro, Oregon
  • 934 posts
Posted by Eric97123 on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 3:20 PM

bnsf0823

i have a section of track that i use for programming i just use alligator clips to the rails and then switch the wire back to the main rr. 

I have the Super Empire Builder, which is what it sounds like you have and have had little trouble with it once I got familar the system.  What it sounds like is you are disconnecting a section of main line power and clipping it to the program track which in doing so you are still updating all the other locos on your layout as well. 

Unless you have a lot of locos I would recommend just progamming them on your layout.  So take all the locos off and program one at a time, first reset it and then program in the address, remove it and set it aside and do the next one.  Then report back on if that fixed your problem.

  • Member since
    February 2010
  • 191 posts
Posted by bnsf0823 on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 2:34 PM

i have a section of track that i use for programming i just use alligator clips to the rails and then switch the wire back to the main rr.  The funny thing is they were all programmed with the cab number and working fine then all of the sudden nothing works.  the decoders are digitrax.  i havent tryed using 03 that would be a good idea thanks.  I am really feeling like i need to rewire my layout set up blocks maybe and a blocked track for programming.  What do you think?

  • Member since
    July 2003
  • From: Metro East St. Louis
  • 5,743 posts
Posted by simon1966 on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 6:43 AM

bnsf0823

 I program locos then put them on the track

Can you explain more.  Since the DB150 does not have a dedicated program track, where and how are you programming these before placing them on the track?

What brands of decoders are you using?

Did the locos work on their default 03 address before trying to program them?

Simon Modelling CB&Q and Wabash See my slowly evolving layout on my picturetrail site http://www.picturetrail.com/simontrains and our videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/MrCrispybake?feature=mhum

  • Member since
    May 2008
  • 4,612 posts
Posted by Hamltnblue on Monday, May 16, 2011 9:15 PM

Best thing to do is concentrate on one loco that isn't working.

What brand and model is it and how did you program it?

You have a working loco so taht rules out the controller and DB150.

Your loco may either have a function button for start-up or may need to be reset.

Springfield PA

  • Member since
    February 2010
  • 191 posts
db150 problems running locos
Posted by bnsf0823 on Monday, May 16, 2011 8:44 PM

I have an ho scale layout that is controlled by a DB150 and my throttle is a dt402.  I am having problems with running my locomotives.  I program locos then put them on the track and they will not go forward or backwards but i can get the lights to go on and off with the function buttons.  The only engine i can get to run correctly is a athearn geniness 70 ace with sound.  I am stumped does anyone have any suggestions on what i could do or try.  It is a large layout about 500 sq.ft double decker with two reverse loops both powered by psx-ars that i know work great.  please help i am losing all faith in dcc, but am in too deep now.  i have three buses that run to a terminal that then run to the db150 i really wish i could get someone that could just tell me how to wire this thing i would be willing to spend some money on wire electrical components etc.

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