Athearn Wiring Question

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I just wired an Athearn RTR for DCC using instructions I found on TCS Decoders site.

The instruction said to solder the decoder's black wire to the frame as a ground. It isn't connected to the left wheel pickup like I'm used to .

It's working so I'm not complaining. But I am curious. Why doesn't the black wire need to be connected to the left wheels? Thanks.
 
There is already an electrical connection between the wheels and the frame. Some engines use the frame as a conductor.
 
If you are installing a DCC decoder in an Athearn, un-ground the motor from the frame.
Cheers
Willis
 




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