Proto FA-1 decoder ok but motor doesn't respond

Model Railroader Electronics and DCC
1

I have an FA1/FB-1 set that will run on DC and the decoders, TCS, program but they won’t run on DCC. Anybody have a similar problem that you solved?

2

Well I found the solution, my brother did some internet surfing and found someone who said this decoder/loco combo needed a 4 digit road number. I was using 3 digit number; added a 0 in front of number and problem magically disappeared and everything is running as it should. Now to change the axle gears!

3

Good trouble shooting.

I have seen that issue before in different forums.

Rich

4

The FA’s usually don’t have axle gear issues, they are truly an Athearn clone drive.

Let me guess, your 3 digit number was less than 127 and you use NCE? Or maybe MRC.

–Randy

5

yep, NCE and numbers 101 and 102

6

Oh, and these are newer run, not the Athearn clone

7

You won’t need to replace the gears in the trucks. That only affected the old GP and SD diesels in the Life Like Proto line.

Rich