Having trouble programming my early Challenger. When program switch is in place, the engine ignores and runs conventionally. I can't get it out of conventional run. I have power off, flip the switch to program, power on and the engine starts to move. Is this an electrical problem or operator error? I have 50 legacy locomotives and never had this come up.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
As long as you're SURE that the track signal is OK, it's probably an issue with the antenna (handrails), or the RDCR (TMCC receiver). If the locomotive sees the track signal, it should not start moving before being addressed.
The problem is addressing it. Doesn't it have to be in a programming mode before you can address it? It runs whenever power is added. It does not sit still to accept a programming command. It seems to be stuck in conventional mode.
Thank you for your response. Can the antenna be adjusted or checked in some way? My other Visionline trains run fine. Track signal is ok. Could this type of issue be caused by jarring during shipping?
If it's been shipped and now doesn't run properly, I'd suspect something got knocked loose inside. You can check to see if the handrails are grounded to the frame, if so that's your problem.
You may be able to test for continuity between the shell and the antenna. That would tell you if the antenna is coming in contact with the shell.
When testing, be sure you can get to metal (unpainted area) with the test lead.
Okay, do you know where on the engine that would be? Do I need to take it apart to check on the connection? Never had one of these apart, would it be difficult to do?
By the term "shell", do mean boiler or cab or ??? Am I correct in saying the handrails are unpainted? Sorry about my lack of knowledge and I appreciate your time and help.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
