New decoder buzzing - Model Power N 2-6-0/Digitrax DZ125

Model Railroader Electronics and DCC
1

Update: Disregard, I discovered my error.

Hello all, I’ve just attempted my first N scale dcc conversion, installing a DZ125 decoder into a Model Power N scale 2-6-0. From everything I’ve read, this is a very simple install, just a matter of wiring the black and red wires from the decoder into the same in the tender, which I have done. I then placed the loco on the programming track and fired up my MRC Prodigy Express to program the new address, 1426.

As soon as I entered the address and hit enter, the loco buzzed for about 2 seconds while the data was sent and then stopped. I didn’t bother adjusting any further CV’s. Although the buzzing was odd, I did place it on a test track to attempt to run, and it started buzzing immediately. I’m assuming some sort of short, but I’m not really sure where.

The steps I followed for installation can be found here, http://www.fourthray.com/Peter/Articles/Equipment/4-6-2ModelPower.htm. Although this for a MP 4-6-2 Pacific, the steps are supposed to be the same.

Any thoughts?

Thanks, Jason

2

When setting CV’s on a decoder, most decoders “buzz” while the info is being digested. That is normal and doesn’t indicate a problem - just the opposite in fact, it means the decoder is getting the new CV’s thru the rails of the programming track like it should.

Generally in a “hard wire” installation, you have two wires going from the electrical pickups (wheels), two going to the motor, and two going to the headlight. If you really did just connect the red and black, all you’ve done is connect the decoder to the track power…there needs to be a way to get the power from the decoder to the motor, which would be the orange and gray wires.

If you think there is a short, the first thing I check on a steam engine is the tender wheels. Usually one truck picks up from the leftside rail and the other from the right. If one of the trucks gets turned around 180 degrees, it will cause a short.