Con-Cor Zephyr DCC issues (N scale)

[sandypsj]

I have a problem that I suspect is fairly easy to solve, but I feel at a loss about. I have been lucky enough to land a Con-Cor Zephyr for an outstanding price. It runs nicely with the DC dummy plug in. When I try to plug in a decoder (I have tried two different Digitrax DN143IPs), I have light control, but no motor control--it will not move. I don't have a lot of experience with the NMRA 8-pin interface--is there a certain depth you're supposed to push the pins in to? TIA for any advice!

[jbonkowski]

I don't think there is space to install the decoder the wrong way around, but check that decoder pin 1 is going to the right spot.

You shouldn't have to push the pins in very far to make contact.

The through pins on the board poke down toward the decoder, so I put Kapton tape around mine to make sure there is no contact there.

I suppose its possible the plug going to the first car ended up flipped. Make sure the black wire is on the right side of the train.

Jim

[jbonkowski]

This thread prompted me to break out my Pioneer Zephyr, of course, and wouldn't you know, the lights worked but the engine would not move!

It might have been some kind of bind, something going on with the motor, possibly my throttle not talking to the engine?

After a little jiggery-pokery it started up and ran fine after that, so I think your decoder is installed correctly. Look elsewhere.

Jim