Just bought my first 9-pin decoder to install in Athearn RS3 loco equipped with DCC quick-plug harness. However, I can’t detach the manufacturer installed jumper board from the end plug of the harness so I can attach the decoder. It looks like it should be a simple pull out the plug process but it isn’t. If I use too much force, I’m afraid I’ll damage the harness plug. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Those jumper plugs do fit very tightly, and careful maneuvering is required to remove them. If you look closely at the ends of the plug, you will see a slight gap between the socket and the plug. Insert a very small pointed screwdriver or edge of an X-acto knife blade into this gap and pull. After you have this edge pulled out slightly, do the other edge. Keep alternating until the plug is far enough out to be grasped from the end and pulled off.
Also note that there is an index groove in the ends of the socket, and the pins on the decoder are offset to one side. Be sure you line the decoder plug up correctly.
I don’t understand why they make these so difficult to remove. It can be very frustrating. I finally had to destroy the jumper board to get it out. But, a Lenz decoder installed just fine and this RS3 is a very smooth running loco.
Thanks, Charles! Took your advice and frequently alternated sides with jeweler’s screwdriver. It worked like a charm to remove jumper. Then plugged in decoder, reassembled frame, and now loco works fine. Also sent an e-mail to Athearn’s tech department advising them of the issue.
The tight fit of the dummy plug is not Athearn’s fault – nearly all JST connectors fit very tightly, and were designed that way so they don’t vibrate loose. There’s nothing Athearn or anyone else can do about it because they don’t make these parts.
Well they sure don’t have to worry about them vibrating loose! That will never happen. I just thought there was something wrong with the one I got. Every time I judge someone I seem to find out that they’re just a little smarter than I am. Actually it’s a good idea and I’ll just have to be more patient next time. Thanks for the explanation.
First decoder I did that had a JST connector on it, I was wondering how much it would take to pull it off. It’s not easy. With a decoder and harness there’s usually enough wire to grasp all 9 wires and gently wiggle until it comes loose. After a couple of cycles it fits a lot easier. Wiggles left to right, not up and down. Up and down will probably bust the connector loose from the board.
–Randy
As a side note, I spoke with MRC and are planning to start making their decoders with the nine pin connector on the board and providing a tail that ends in the standard 8 pin plug. Sort of a concession to Athearn’s RTR engines. I believe their new clip in decoders are a replacement for the board in the RTR units, and some Atlas.