I just purchased a Mantu 2-6-6-2 T model #351602 at a train show. It already had a DCC decoder installed. At this time all I have is a DC test track. So I need to pull the decoder out, which I did. The parts list shows a DDC Decoder plug (#1001032) that plugs into the wiring harness. I would think this jumps the various wires so it will run without a decoder. Unfortunately I do not have this 9 pin terminator plug. I spoke with the tech guy at Model Power and he said it was not nescessary or supplied on the new engines out of the box. I believe he is wrong. I’m just getting back into the hobby after a few decades, so DCC is new to me. Is this a standard plug/terminator? The connector in the engine is 9 pins (female) inline. It looks like if I jump the Red and Orange, and the Gray & Black that should work for the motor only, but I am not sure and would not want to screw it up.
Bob,
Don’t do anything hasty! DCC decoders are designed to run on DC systems as well as DCC systems, without the need for removing the decoder. As for crossing wires, don’t do it is the best advise I can give you. Better still put the decoder back into the loco and run as normal. Then if you choose to upgrade to a DCC system later on you’ve got one loco ready to run with a decoder already in it.
Hope this helps,
Ian
I did not realize that it would run on DC with the decoder in place. I’m am not going to do anything hasty, I do not want to let the magic smoke out !!!
I put it on the test track and it runs great. I learn something new everyday !!!
You can’t assume that all decoders will run on DC – many of the older ones won’t. Unless you know for sure exactly what type of decoder you’re dealing with and have documentation you can reference, it’s always best to check with someone else.
I belive if you look up the documentation the decoder is capable of being set for dc its just a matter of setting a cv
This particular decoder is a Digitrax DH121. I had also contacted Digitrax and they confirmed it would run on DC. But that’s good to know that all may not run on DC. At this time I have no way to change the CV’s on a decoder. When I start to build the layout I will be running DCC, probably a Lenz system.
Bob if you have your dcc command station really all you need to do is setup a short stretch of track long enough for the steamer to fit on connect it to the program outlets from the command station put yout hand controler to pg and away you go.
At this time I only have DC. No DCC command station yet.