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1. I ASSUME that, when all is well, the OPEN command comes from the 'radio' board [R2LC] via the Command base.

2. I'm experiencing ABNORMAL coupler openings when pulling a string of K-line lighted Caltrain commuter cars.  Usually, but not always, this occurs in a particular place [traversing several turnouts] on the layout.

3.This occurs with several TMCC locomotives.

4.  I suspect, but seek advice from others, that SOMEHOW the combo of this train AND my new layout [still undergoing 'break-in' testing] combine to send a spurious signal.....OPEN COUPLER.... to the radio board.

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I added electro couplers to a loco and had a similar problem. I put .001 uf capacitors on all the switches. ( 2 per switch from the direction terminals to the common. the value is not critical, I used some .003 when I ran out of .001)

I had other locos that never had the problem so it was a surprise when it happened.

   This so far has cured the problem.

  Gunner John recommends putting a capacitor inside the loco. He has had success with that.   Don

 

A common fix for electrocouplers triggering randomly is to put a 1uf 50V non-polarized capacitor directly across the electrocoupler.  This is only for TMCC, Legacy locomotives already have the protection.

 

One thing to try before doing any electrical work.  Unplug the electrocoupler from the TMCC electronics and run the consist a few times through the problem areas.  If you still uncouple, you have mechanical coupler problems.  If it doesn't uncouple, I recommend the 1uf cap across the coupler as the first step.

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