I was looking at an Atlas O engine in the secondary market, produced about 2004, that is equipped with EOB. I'd be interested in hearing opinions about whether EOB is still considered a decent cruise system, and how robust it is. I seem to recall someone mentioning that the boards on these might be failing as they're aging.
And if they do fail, are they repairable, or is the only cure replacement with ERR? Thanks.
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I run two engines still using EOB with no problems whatsoever, however I do have ERR cruise commander waiting in the wings. I won’t change out unless needed. I think EOB is very well made. Electronic guys like GRJ may be able to repair a failure but it’s really not worth it. I’m sure he would agree.
Usually what fails is the motor drivers which can be replaced but all too often the board burns up at which point you have to replace everything. As the main board supports the audio boards as well they have to replaced or a new motherboard just for them has to be installed.
Best when considering an EOB equiped engine is look at the cost of a total TMCC replacement then calculate that into your cost.
TAS also made EOB drop ins which is the equivalent of an ERR Cruise M but few manufacturers used these in new builds. Too bad as those are easily replaced.
Pete
breezinup posted:.......whether EOB is still considered a decent cruise system........
The biggest criticism of EOB was its momentum feature. It accelerated too slow for many people. I have it in a couple of engines and since I don't do jack rabbit starts it is fine for me.
Is you engine a steamer? If so you can change the chuff rate from 2 to 4 via the handheld. A big advantage compared to the TMCC engines of the time.
Norton posted:Usually what fails is the motor drivers which can be replaced but all too often the board burns up at which point you have to replace everything. As the main board supports the audio boards as well they have to replaced or a new motherboard just for them has to be installed.
Best when considering an EOB equiped engine is look at the cost of a total TMCC replacement then calculate that into your cost.
TAS also made EOB drop ins which is the equivalent of an ERR Cruise M but few manufacturers used these in new builds. Too bad as those are easily replaced.
Pete
The traces between where power come to the board and the full wave bridge rectifier are not beefy enough to handle the large current draw when the engine is running slow with a large train behind it. Better to dump the connector where power comes into the board and solder directly to the full wave bridge. I have five engines with EOB. It's a great systems when they work and haven't failed. Check out these Kline berks with EOB drop in boards. The slower the better, one reason why I love EOB, ERR cruise, and Legacy
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