I put a Digitrax DH126PS decoder in a couple of my new Athearn Genesis GP38-2's, I couldn't get the shell separated from the frame so I installed them by taking the dynamic brake blister off. The lights come on and it takes a lot of power to get it moving, around notch 30 on my NCE DCC handheld. Once it gets going it won't stop unless I use the emergency button, sometimes that doesn't even stop it. I put one of these decoders in my new SW1500 and it works great, other than the rotary beacon doesn't blink and works only in the forward mode. Any of you guys got any suggestions on what is wrong??? Roger
I tried to program it again like I did the 1st time (start over) if that is what you mean. The strange thing is it happens to both of them (#419 & #454), they won't notch down. I got 2 more (#683 & #695) so I would like to figure these out before I buy more decoders. Is there a way to delete or wipe clean the decoder to make it like it is brand-new? Sorry to sound dumb Jim, but I'm not very DDC-savy. Roger
We need Keith to chime in. Try a web search on which CV value is the factory setting for your decoder. I use Tsunami and it could be different. I am no expert by any stretch.
1) The shell of the GP38-2s is held on by at least one screw on the underside near the fuel tank as I remember (I can't check mine because I am on the road). 2) The Digitrax 120 series decoders were inclined to have issues. I would recommend in buying the SoundTraxx MC2H104AT decoder because it makes an easy board swap or the SoundTraxx MC2H102P8 (much less expensive) because it will plug right in the 8 pin socket and you just can't beat Soundtraxx on motor control, lighting features and its support of the braking function which will make the operation of your locomotive as prototypical as possible. Adding sound with the Soundtraxx Tsunami TSU-GN1000 (which are virtually identical to the OEM) decoders is very easy.
Are the issues the same with the GP15's? They run the just like the GP38's. I made a video comparing it with a Atlas GP7 but it says they are to big. I sent them to Charlie to see if he can post them. Thanks Keith!
Well the videos are too big for Charlie to post. I've got one of the Soundtraxx MC2H102P8 ordered, couldn't find a Digitrax A6X. I'll let you know how it goes. Roger
Roger, I tried installing a DH123 and a NCE decoder in a GP15 and neither worked. It would work in DC mode only. I suspect there are board problems that crop up from time to time so a board swap looks like the only answer.
You would think as much as they cost you wouldn't have these problems. It's almost as if they want us to buy the sound/decoder equipped versions. Another thing why don't they include instructions on how to take the shell off? They include the exploded view on every little piece but not how to just take the body off the frame. Roger
You're right, Rodger. I've practically torn stuff apart trying to disassemble things without proper or any instructions. Sometimes a search on the net provides the answers. I hate hidden screws and stuff like that.
I got good news to report the Soundtraxx decoder works like a champ, the 454 runs almost as good as an Atlas. I put the Digitraxx decoder that was in the 454 in a SW1500 and the same thing happened, wonder if I can send it back to Digitraxx??? Found the little screws under the fuel tank, someone must have a wicked sense of humor. Little tight when putting the shell back on but no problems as long as you watch out for the little wires. Just one thing now, it runs forward when the handheld says reverse. Can you put an 8-pin decoder in backwards??? Roger
Yes, it is possible to plug a decoder into the 8 pin socket reversed and the loco will run backwards and the lights will not work. Roger, one of the neat features of all Soundtraxx decoders is the braking function. I have written about it elsewhere on this site and the DCC Pulse column in one of the recent NMRA magazines featured my instructions on setting up the braking function.
I'll chime in on the braking function of Soundtraxx decoders. It adds a very entertaining element to running trains and makes operations seem even more realistic. Especially with the brake squeal! The only thing Soundtraxx doesn't provide is the smell of creosote and diesel exhaust (or steam).
