Trains.com

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

DCC problems

2337 views
4 replies
1 rating 2 rating 3 rating 4 rating 5 rating
  • Member since
    August 2014
  • 9 posts
DCC problems
Posted by SP SD44R on Saturday, February 28, 2015 1:19 PM

I am having problems with a new atlas n scale c628 dcc ecuiped locomotive stalling on my atlas code 80 dc layout even though it is a brand new locomotive. I was wondering if it could be that it isn't getting enough power from the track.

  • Member since
    December 2004
  • From: Bedford, MA, USA
  • 21,483 posts
Posted by MisterBeasley on Sunday, March 1, 2015 11:23 AM

It could be that, because a sound-equipped DCC engine needs a lot of power just to get started.

But, the usual problem is insufficient track feeders and depending on rail joiners to get the power around.  Do you have a good bus-and-feeder system for track power?  Are there specific spots where the engine stalls?

It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse. 

  • Member since
    December 2008
  • From: Mount Vernon WA
  • 968 posts
Posted by skagitrailbird on Sunday, March 1, 2015 11:27 AM

Is the decoder on board a dual type? That is, is it designed to run on both DCC and DC? Your post indicates your layout is DC. If the loco's decoder is not a dual type that is probably why it is not running correctly. Continued running on DC will probably ruin the decoder.

Roger Johnson
  • Member since
    November 2006
  • From: NW Pa Snow-belt.
  • 2,216 posts
Posted by ricktrains4824 on Sunday, March 1, 2015 6:24 PM

My first check is power continuity, and then dirty track/wheels creating pick-up issues. DCC, especially with sound, locomotives are way more sensitive to that than DC locomotives are. If it indeed has the dual-mode decoder, my next check would be track and power. 

Ricky W.

HO scale Proto-freelancer.

My Railroad rules:

1: It's my railroad, my rules.

2: It's for having fun and enjoyment.

3: Any objections, consult above rules.

  • Member since
    February 2010
  • From: Hillsboro, Oregon
  • 934 posts
Posted by Eric97123 on Monday, March 9, 2015 1:44 PM

I vote dirty wheels.  I have gotten a few new locos that ran like crap and a little wheel cleaning and all was good. 

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Users Online

There are no community member online

Search the Community

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Model Railroader Newsletter See all
Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!