Im going to be buying an engine, an Atlas WC GP40, but it has a decoder in it. Will I be able to run it on a DC layout? Or do I have to rip out the decoder and replace it with a DC lightboard? Thanks for the help.
Alec
If it’s a dual-mode decoder, which most newer ones are, it will run as is on DC.
Even my cheap Bachman GP had a duel mode and ran fine on DC. I just put it on the track and it ran.
The DIRECTIONS COMING WITH THE ENGINE should tell you.
If you buy it ‘used’, you will have a problem - finding out what kind of decoder your engine has.
Either case ATLAS can tell you.
If it is a factory decoder, then it is a dual mode and should run fine on straight DC. Some of them do require the user to change a jumper switch on the decoder. As the others have said check the manual.
If it is is a used locomotive, and/or has an added on decoder all bets are off.
Not ALL factory decoders are dual. Most of the early ones are NOT DC compatable.
David
Thanks for the help guys! Would It be a bad idea to see if it runs on DC? That wouldnt burn anything up would it? BTW, the engine is NIB, and was made in 2004. Im guessing thats not “early” DCC.
Alec
in 2005 i bought two atlas sd35’s new in the box. they had a decoder that required that a jumper plug be moved to allow the loco to be run on dcc. the plug was accessable by removing the dynamic brake housing to get to it.
Read the instructions carefully. If it’s dual-mode it’ll be noted. If you have to move a jumper, that will also be noted.
The Atlas decoder on the GP40s has a jumper on it. Usually they are set to the DC postion out of the box. If it is set to DCC, the headlights will come on, but the engine will not move. You won’t hurt anything.
To change, pull out the Dynamic brake hatch, the decoder is directly below. There will be what looks like a plug towards the rear. Pull it out, and reinsert in the other position.
I was not able to program mine to automatically switch between DC and DCC. Pulling out the hatch isn’t too hard,
Thanks very much guys!
Alec