The new RCS/EVO PnP-3 Plug’n’Play 3 amp R/C controller was originally designed for the Bachmann K-27.
As the PnP socket in the K-27 was based on the existing AristoCraft (AC) PnP socket it means the RCS PnP-3 will fit the AC socket.
Whilst the Bachmann socket wiring is back to front when compared to the AC socket, and, the controller dimension specifications are a bit bigger, LS’ers will be pleased to know that the RCS PnP-3 is direct plug in fit into various AC locos.
The RCS PnP-3 has self limiting overload protection up to 3 amps at 15 volts, 45 va. Therefore it is suitable for the smaller AC locos without any special cooling needed.
The RCS PnP-3 may also be capable of powering the larger locos such as the E8, SD-45 and Dash 9 with suitable fan cooling.
Unfortunately RCS cannot give a blanket approval for the entire range of AC locos because of the discrepancies in the wiring between various AC locos.
Therefore RCS will give approval as each AC loco has a successful installation completed. There will be a pdf file available at the RCS website detailing which locos have been tested and what, if any, special wiring provisions need to be made.
The first AC loco tackled has been the GP40.
Here is how RCS did it. Most of the pictures are self explanatory.
You will require:
1 x RCS # PnP-3
1 x RCS # BIK-U3 installation kit.
1 x RCS # Y-CABLE to put two batteries in series.
2 x 7.2 volt 2400 mah Sub C NiCd packs.
If you don’t already have an RCS TX-4 or TX-24 transmitter handpiece you