Athearn GP15-1

[ConrailRailfan]

Hi, I have an Athearn Genesis HO Scale Conrail GP15-1 and I'm using the prodigy express DCC system and the locomotive does not move, all the sounds work fine though. I tried other locomotives and they worked. The GP15-1 does not work on DC either. Does anyone know what's wrong?

Thank You

 

[wright2626]

do the lights come on? did you get it new or used? might have to program it to another address. you will probably have to program it on the main, so make sure that all of the other locos are off the track.

 

[ConrailRailfan]

Hi, yes the lights come on, and I got it new, I'll try programming it.

Thanks

 

[bnsf971]

It could be something as simple as a contact from the board to the motor jostled loose in shipping.
I have also set cv 19 to 0, so the engine would move. It was stuck in a phantom consist.

 

[ConrailRailfan]

Should I set it to default settings and try that?

 

[Boris]

I also use the Prodigy Express system. Programing is somewhat of a PIA. Try the default setting for the decoder, 03. If that doesn't work.......look up the reset CV in your locomotives documentation, and reprogram on the main, as was previously suggested.

 

[ConrailRailfan]

Hi so if it is set on 3 it is automatically on defaut settings? And I tried reprogramming it and now it dosen't work on 3.

 

[Boris]

Hi so if it is set on 3 it is automatically on defaut settings? And I tried reprogramming it and now it dosen't work on 3.

Do you remember what you tried to reprogram it to?

Check the documentation that came with the locomotive. You should be able to find the reset CV Try that while programing on the main. That should take you back to 03. If not, call Athearn tomorrow, and see if they can talk you through the re-set.

 

[ConrailRailfan]

Ok, thank you I'll try that

 

[Cjcrescent]

Also make sure when doing the reset, especially if on the main, that no other engines are on the track. You may reset those as well.

 

[bnsf971]

Reset for a Tsunami is cv8=8.

 

[ConrailRailfan]

How would I view the CV's to see which ones I need to change?

 

[bnsf971]

How would I view the CV's to see which ones I need to change?

I have a Digitrax system, but your Prodigy should have a "cv read" ability. Not being smart, but the manual that came with your system should give you the details.

 

[ConrailRailfan]

I'm still having this problem, it doesn't run on the standard 3 setting on the DCC, it runs for a short time and then stops. Does anyone know why?

Thanks

 

[Sunshine Express]

Athearn GP15

I have 3 Athearn DCC &Sound locos,and all had to go back from new for repairs. Your problem may be the same as my F7,it would only run for about 6 inches and stop. Tested at Club diagnostic J M something by an expert,and he found there was no power coming from one truck,and the pick ups on the other were loose. All 3 fixed by Athearn,and now are perfect. Cheers Owen

 

[ConrailRailfan]

Hi yes that is similar to what mine does I'm going to take it to my local hobby shop and see what they say. Thanks

 

[PaulB]

JMRI has a program called decoder pro which gives you a windows interface to work with.


http://jmri.sourceforge.net/

Sprog II is a handy test system that isn't too expensive and is suitable to set up a test track at your work bench.

http://www.sprog-dcc.co.uk/


My club has this set up. It makes life much easier.

 

[Sunshine Express]

Thanks Paul B .That was the unit that proved my 3 Athearns were faulty. A friend took me to his club that has the JMRI. My club A. M. R. A. Queensland Inc. whilst it is the largest club in the State,is behind the times with DCC, but is at last ,making positive efforts to introduce this system. Cheers Sunshine Express