Let's tweak the Atlas RSD 7/15...DC - two rail

Another question here....the directions mention that the unit can draw up to six amps. Any decoder set-up would need to be able to handle that current.  Also, how much additional weight could be safely added under those circumstances?

First thing I've done with all my Atlas twin-motor locos was re-wire them in series.

That was the first thing to be done..with good success. Now to move on !

I think you'll find that a twin motor AtlasO diesel wired in series will draw less than 2 amps.  I have a pair of AtlasO Erie built FM's each driven by a single QSI "HO" Revolution U sound decoder . Pulling a 30 car freight up a 2.2 % grade they draw less than  3.6 amps.  I recommend you acquire a good DCC capable ammeter and use it to guide decoder selection and monitor performance.  With regard to adding weight - one way to do it is to place lead strips on top of your diesel to empirically determine how much is needed while staying under the sustained current rating of your decoder.  Once you determine how much weight you need to add open the unit and cement the weights to the underside do the hood in places that keeps the overall weight centered on the wheelbase of the unit.  Not rocket science but it works for me.

 

Ed Rappe 

I'm getting a number of recommendations for the QSI Magnum DCC set-up.  Not clear if this includes the sound chip or not. They also list a number of appropriate sound chips on their site....Alco V16 244 with various horns. Unable to down load any sound off their site, as nothing will open for a sample listen.  I thought about the possibility of going DCS, and just using the DC function for most operation.  Unable to get a clear answer from MTH as to whether this is a good idea or no.  The QSI certainly has enough capacity....I could likely add a good six pounds of lead to the Big Dragon Lady !

While we're here...anyone care to recommend a replacement stack for this unit, as Atlas did a horrible job on this detail.   Any late'50s 251 stack should be close, as would be a GE FDL stack from the old days, if it has the rounded corners.  Going to see about smoke for this chooch too, so we'll likely be coring out the bottom of the part to some degree.

QSI decoders do not have separate "sound chip"  They use a programmable chip and  sound files that can be downloaded and installed using a PC and the USB QSI Programmer connected to an isolated programming track.  The same decoder is used for both steam and diesel - it just depends on what sound file is loaded on it and how the Configuration Variables are set up.  When you order a new decoder you specify the sound you want and QSI will factory install it for you. Dealers/installers/users that have purchased a QSI Programmer can do their own sound installations/changes without physically touching the decoder.

 

Ed Rappe