N BLI Paragon 2 EMD E7s for dummies.

[mecgp7]

I purchased the most recent release by BLI in the form of an E7. I just really "needed" the Maine Central unit. Now, I knew it came with all sorts of bells and whistles and that it ran on DCC and DC, but my goal was to run it on my DC layout. It is really a stunning loco. That being said, I don't care for it operationally on DC. I don't need sound, but I can live with it and I do know the sounds can be muted. What I don't like is that it operates like it is under the "momentum" function that came on older power packs. Unless you wait, you need to give it the juice to get going and then it is a rocket. You need to account for the momentum when stopping too.

I know I am trying to de-engineer the loco, but I  am content with DC. I have a DCC system so I can make changes. Is there anyone out there that can help me take this high-tech loco back to a model T?

[glakedylan]

remove both the operational and sound decoders (unless it is a combined decoder)

hardwire the electrical pickup from one side to one motor mount
the other to the second motor mount (soldering)

solder wires from motor mounts to resistor/led for headlight

that will make it a dc (analog) locomotive
and, if you want to sell the decoder(s) let me know

sincerely--
Gary

[mecgp7]

I did a little more research and the delayed start up can be shut off by increasing the number on one of the CVs.
Personal preference, but I can see how others would really enjoy all the features. These locos are beautiful and I will be considering future purchases.

[peteski]

I did a little more research and the delayed start up can be shut off by increasing the number on one of the CVs.
Personal preference, but I can see how others would really enjoy all the features. These locos are beautiful and I will be considering future purchases.

Most decoders using factory settings have momentum already set to minimum (disabled).  Also, in my experience sound decoders often behave sluggishly when running in DC.  Still - it would make sense to verify whether the momentum CVs are set to some value greater than zero and if so reset them to zero.