Change to the DCS/DCC feature in PS3

The switch was causing a lot of issues for DCS users.  That is probably why they removed it. (speculation)  The DCC O users are smaller group and I am sure they will modify the engine the way they want it.  G

Although the switch was, indeed, removed from RK engines because of the confusion for DCS operators, DCC functionality can be had by simply changing a jumper on the PS3 board.

My understanding is that Premeir engines still have the switch.

I don't know if this applies as a "new" engine, but my recently arrived RK NS Heritage SD still had the switch.

It all depends on the date of manufacture.

After asking mth about setting up the r142a subway to run under dcc thy provided me with these instructions, I followed them and it works fine. The only thing I would add is to make sure to differentiate between that grey cable and the one of the proto couplers as they are the same type of cable. And also, you may wanna install a small switch as it is a better solution to the wire nut. Hope this helps in some way.

I think I'd put the switch in, especially if there's a hole for it.

"My understanding is that Premeir engines still have the switch."

 

Purchased one in march. It has the DCC switch.

In another post about a week ago, someone said that switching the PS3 board to operate on DCC could be done without using a switch simply by setting a CV to a different value. Is this the case, or is it necessary for the user to install a hard wired switch to operate the loco on DCC? Once the PS3 has been put into DCC mode, will trying to run it on a DCS layout damage the decoder? Won't cutting a wire and installing a switch for DCC void any warranty on the loco?

 

I have been modeling trains for over 60 years in other scales/gauges, but have never been involved in 3-rail O until joining a local club several months ago. I have a new MTH PS3 loco on order (due in December) and have also just gotten a LionChief+ mikado, which I like a lot, even though I would prefer scale proportions. Honestly, after happily dealing with DCC in several different scales for over 20 years now, the more I read about DCS, the less I think I'm going to like it, and I'm wondering if I should cancel my order for the MTH loco and get a LionChief+ diesel instead.

 

If anyone can clarify my confusion/reservations, I will appreciate it greatly.

 

Thanks,

Bill in FtL

Bill, what engine did you order? If a premier engine it should have it, if a premier scale wheels engine it will absolutely have it.

no damage should occur if operated incorrectly according to the manual, it might buzz a little and won't operate but that's it. Given that this is their official instructions I don't think it would void the warranty. This is for the 142a subway set only though.

The engine is the Railking Scale Alco RS-1, so it's not Premiere, nor is it 3/2 convertible. The RS-1 is one of my favorites, more so than the RS-3 being released in LC+, although I think the LC+ control might be preferable to me. I also would prefer 2-rail scale, but the club is primarily 3-Rail O, running DCS, TMCC, and Conventional AC.

 

Bill in FtL

Bill,

In another post about a week ago, someone said that switching the PS3 board to operate on DCC could be done without using a switch simply by setting a CV to a different value. Is this the case, or is it necessary for the user to install a hard wired switch to operate the loco on DCC?

That turned out to be incorrect.

 

A PS3 engine can only be put into DCC mode by either:

• Switching to DCC, if the engine has such a switch (all Premier and some early Rail King models)
• Or removing a jumper that's in lieu of a switch (in later Rail King models).

Once the PS3 has been put into DCC mode, will trying to run it on a DCS layout damage the decoder?

No, it just won't respond to DCS.

Won't cutting a wire and installing a switch for DCC void any warranty on the loco?

I wouldn't think so, as long as you don't make a mess when you open up the engine. However, to be on the safe side I'd ask MTH before doing anything.

My guess is that it will have the switch.

If it's a newer Rail King, it most likely will not have the switch.

Thanks for the answers everyone.

 

Does anyone have any idea how much disassembly will be needed in order to access the jumper on the new RailKing locos which switches the PS3 boards from DCS to DCC?

 

Also, when operating the new PS3 locos in conventional mode, does the board automatically recognize it, or do you need to change a switch or jumper for that, too?

 

Bill in FtL

PS-3 will automatically detect DCS if present.  If not, it automatically works in conventional.  Only changing to DCC requires a switch or jumper.  Difficulty will vary between models.  Steam is probably the easiest.  Accessing via tender shell.  G