ERR AC/DC Commander Difference

One runs AC motors, one runs DC motors, it's really simple.   They are NOT interchangeable.

The same PCB is used, but the parts that are populated on the board are different.

A huge difference you'll see is the AC commander does not have the large bridge rectifier that is on the DC commander.  Obviously, the software on the chip is also quite different.

Is there anyway to modify like the original to use with DC?

No, you'd have to have access to the code, and that's closely guarded.  Sell the AC commander and buy a DC model.

A big thanks as always. I have purchased one already. and I am guessing that is why it only operated the couplers.

I'll take the ac commander if you desire to unload it.

And the problem resolves itself.

Yep, thanks a tron as usual. Some of us would drive ourselves batty if you weren't here.

is there a list somewhere to know which one to get for each engine?  How do you know to get an AC or DC for the engine you are upgrading?

Edmund Schwartzel 060518 posted:

is there a list somewhere to know which one to get for each engine?  How do you know to get an AC or DC for the engine you are upgrading?

 

You need to know whether the engine you are working with has AC motor(s) or DC motor(s).  AC would be old Pulmor style, DC would be the more recently used can motors. (though there is not a specific "line in the sand" date-wise, there is quite an overlap of when each type was used for different products)

What specific engine are you upgrading?  If you post the catalog # (assuming it's not already been upgraded/modified since it left the factory), someone here will be able to help you figure out if its got AC or DC motors.  If you open the hood and take a photo, it can easily be determined what you have.  (If you are not comfortable taking the shell off, of course, then you really should not be considering doing this project yourself. )

-Dave

i am working on the mth y6b, and i wanted to make sure before i started i have the right kit.  i have the DC kit, i think i have the ac kit somewhere in the cellar if that is the one to use.  thanks

Ed

The Y6B has a DC can motor.  I recommend the Cruise Commander, once you have had good cruise on a locomotive, it's hard to go back.