I operate with TMCC, Legacy, and DCS. Once in a great while, I experience random [but repeatable] uncouplings from TMCC engines....from any manufacturer. Replacing the coupler with a new one, from the same manufacturer, seems to fix the problem. I'm trying to find the 'cause' of this problem...... ESPECIALLY if DCS is the 'cause'.
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There can be two reasons, electrical or mechanical. If you want to localize the reason, unplug the coupler inside the locomotive and then run it. If it still uncouplers, it's mechanical. If it doesn't, it's electrical. If you have an electrical cause, try a 1uf 50V non-polarized across the coupler connector on the motherboard.
Thx, John, for the good tips. I shall disconnect it. If the problem IS electrical, please tell my why that capacitor will/might fix it....
Because it is firing spuriously due to unwanted electrical spikes. The capacitor absorbs them.
GunrunnerJohn's advice on determining the fault should be followed. My coupler problems were mechanical. I fixed spurious openings on Legacy locos by disassembling the coupler and stretching the spring a bit.
The couplers are controlled using a triac, and if electrical noise is sufficient to trigger the triac, it fires and opens the coupler.
For mechanical issues, I'd love to find a proper replacement spring for the plunger, I've yet to find that one.
Thanx, Roy....An alternate path for those D**** electrons.
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