DCC loco is a no go

[MVW]

Hey guys,

I recently purchased an Atlas Trainmaster DCC loco, and finally got around to setting it on the tracks today. The headlights light up (in either forward or reverse) but I can't get 'er to budge. Suggestions? Do a factory reset of the decoder?

Thanks!

Jim

[mu26aeh]

Sounds like the classic Atlas issue of motor contacts not making solid connection under decoder.  Make sure they are bent correctly or add some solder pillows to underside

[Rich_S]

Sounds like the classic Atlas issue of motor contacts not making solid connection under decoder.  Make sure they are bent correctly or add some solder pillows to underside

I second what MU26AEH said. The number one problem I've also had with Atlas locomotives is, one of the motor wipers not in contact with the brass pad on the bottom of the decoder.

[jpwisc]

I've taken to soldering the motor leads to the decoder. It takes a little work, but it is worth the headache reduction.

[MVW]

That was likely the problem. I popped the shell off, then decided to try it again. Took right off, so something obviously wasn't making contact. I must have jiggled it back into position.

It's running fine now. If the problem arises again, I assume I'll need to disassemble the frame?

Thanks!

Jim

[mu26aeh]

That was likely the problem. I popped the shell off, then decided to try it again. Took right off, so something obviously wasn't making contact. I must have jiggled it back into position.

It's running fine now. If the problem arises again, I assume I'll need to disassemble the frame?

Thanks!

Jim

You don't have to take it apart completely, just loosen the screws enough you can seperate the top of frame enough to remove decoder.  Adjust the tabs and tighten the screws.

[MichaelWinicki]

Glad to hear you got it running.

Got 4 of them myself.

Maybe the best running Atlas N-scale loco.