Just bought Zephyr starter kit and have the new Tower 55 model with dcc and sound coming as well. Since this will be the only model on my layout, will I need to program anything? I know the models come from the factory addressed 03. Should everything be ready to run?
Since it is your only locomotive, you can run it on 03 as it comes. Most of us program new models to the last number of the engine and use all four digits if you have multiple units.
I always try the model on 03 as received before changing the address to a assigned one that I will use.
The reason we use the last two numbers is to remember the number easily at any time.
I agree. Test it as it is shipped to you, and see if your intuition tells you that it is a keeper. Even if it is not, it may be like BLI steamers and need considerable breaking in. After a while, you will probably want to set the starting voltage so that the loco just begins to move at speed step 1 on your throttle. That is CV 2. CV’s 3 and 4 are for intertia (slow starting the heavy train) and momentum (slowly getting a moving train stopped), respectively. I have gotten to the point where I can’t stand quick stops and starts with throttle inputs. I need to have the trains move more realistically, and you may find that, too. Also, the sound volume is usually set at its maximum setting, so use mouse on your hair the first time you power up the loco. You will probably want to reduce the volume soon after you get the loco. Even the bell or horn/whistle may be too loud for the engine noise.
That is a sample of some of the CV’s that you will eventually play with.