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For those that use MRC TECH6

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  • Member since
    November 2013
  • 618 posts
For those that use MRC TECH6
Posted by DAVID FORTNEY on Tuesday, July 7, 2020 3:30 PM

Beings I only run one train but like running two or three engines together I would like to consist with the tech 6, can it be done? Can I consist with the tech 6 

The tech 6 is a great unit to use with dcc/ sound engines without the expense of buying a full dcc controller.

Dave

  • Member since
    November 2006
  • From: NW Pa Snow-belt.
  • 2,216 posts
Posted by ricktrains4824 on Tuesday, July 7, 2020 4:03 PM

If you are using DCC Sound units, on a DC controller, you can not mix in non-sound units.

Only issue that would limit otherwise is the current draw. Some sound equipped units do draw a considerable amount of power, plus the current inrush for sound start on some is quite steep.

But with only one train, two or three units should slide in under the current limit.

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
    April 2003
  • From: Clinton, MO, US
  • 4,261 posts
Posted by Medina1128 on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 7:33 AM

DAVID FORTNEY

Beings I only run one train but like running two or three engines together I would like to consist with the tech 6, can it be done? Can I consist with the tech 6 

The tech 6 is a great unit to use with dcc/ sound engines without the expense of buying a full dcc controller.

Dave

 

I don't use Tech 6 units, but I DO use Tech 4 2600's, and am able to consist with DC and DCC units. With the BLI's DC Master, I can program their DCC and Blueline locomotives to act as a single consist. When it comes to consisting non-DCC locomotives, I use locomotives from the same manufacturers. Athearn Genesis with Athearn Genesis, Walthers Trainline units, and so on.

 

  • Member since
    October 2001
  • From: OH
  • 17,574 posts
Posted by BRAKIE on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 9:15 PM

DAVID FORTNEY
Beings I only run one train but like running two or three engines together I would like to consist with the tech 6, can it be done? Can I consist with the tech 6

I consisted 2 Atlas nonsound DCC GP38s by using my T-6 hand held throttle simply by giving both engines the same number, the same start and momentum sittings.  

You have 15 amps. 

Larry

Conductor.

Summerset Ry.


"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt  Safety First!"

  • Member since
    February 2002
  • From: Reading, PA
  • 30,002 posts
Posted by rrinker on Thursday, July 9, 2020 9:26 AM

 2 amps should be able to run 6 locos. Most HO locos don't draw anywhere near the 1 amp "rule of thumb" when they are freely pulling a train. Most newer (past 20 years or so) don't even draw 1 amp if you grab the flywheels and stall the motor. I've had 10 moving simultaneously with the 2.5 amp output of my Digitrax Zephyr. 

 DOubleheading, if the train could be pulled by a single loco, doesn;t draw twice the current of running a signle loco - there is double overheard (light the lights, the slight draw of the decoder electronics, etc), but since you now have 2 motors sharing the load, the draw per motor is LESS than the draw of just one motor pulling the same train. Ideally, half, but no one makes model trains to that tight of tolerances for that to be absolutely true. Plus there are losses int he motor, as no motor is 100% efficient.

 But running 6 DCC locos on a 2 amp system is not as out there as it might sound.

                                    --Randy

 


Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's

 

Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.

  • Member since
    October 2001
  • From: OH
  • 17,574 posts
Posted by BRAKIE on Thursday, July 23, 2020 12:46 PM

Lastspikemike
Did you run one GP 38 in reverse?

No, I was on the lazy side  Black Eye  and ran them elephant style. It was more of a "new toy" expreiment then anything.

Larry

Conductor.

Summerset Ry.


"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt  Safety First!"

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