Hello Group,
I've run into a problem with my "N" scale Bachmann H16-44 locomotive that has the Bachmann light board with the DCC plug in connector. I wired a Digitrax DZ143 to the light board per Bachmann's instructions. I then was able to program the decoder to use a new 2 digit address. I was also able to modify the default values in CV2, CV5 and CV6 for start, mid-range and full speed values. I then placed the loco on my layout, the lights and direction responded as expected. I then set the throttle to 25, to allow the locomotive to make a few break in runs around the layout. On the third lap around my small HCD layout, the engine quit and as Digitrax states, I let the smoke out of the decoder. I had made sure before even placing the locomotive on to the programming track that all of the wires were insulated. Not only was the decoder damaged and needed repaired, the actual circuit board was damaged as well.
Next, I removed the factory installed light board and hard wired the decoder directly to the motor and the frame. I made sure all connections were insulated with heat shrink tubing. I was again able to program the decoder without issues. This time after about 6 months of flawless running, everything goes up in smoke. The engine runs fine on DC power, so at this point I'm not sure why the first decoder went up in smoke after only a few hours of use and the second decoder went up in smoke in 6 months of use. Has anyone else had these issues with the N scale Bachman H16-44?
Rich S.
Modeling the P&WV in "N" scale.