Hi Pete, the sensitive part of the RailPro loco module is when you use the +V and Common screw terminals. It is fused against shorts , however, it is a internal surface mount fuse that you and I cannot change. That is why you need to return the module for repair.
If in doubt about your wiring I use a 1 amp, must be a 1 amp glass fuse quick blow connected to the +V to test my wiring. I rarely need to use the +V terminals. But they come in handy, but you must be careful not to short the +V and common.
USA engines do not provide the complete “DCC” wiring, which provides two wires to each light and isolate the motors. When you modify USA engines wiring issues can happen if you do not fully understand the wiring. Ask us for advice.
On USA engines I have a set procedure for my installs.This is a shortened summary of steps for using battery power. Track power steps would be different.
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Turn over and remove all body screws. Working on the bottom. Then remove the 4 track pick up wires attached the end of each motor block if on battery power. Remove the sliders. The outside wires to the motor block pins are motor power. Leave in place.
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Remove fuel tank and mount the on/off switch and speaker. Mount charge jack in fuel tank side or rear end of engine near coupler. Or where you prefer.
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Upright engine, remove shell and work on the inside of engine. Looking at the USA lighting board, unplug both motor connectors, the 2 wire red/black cables from the USA lighting board and the four wires plug for track pickups. Now the lighting board is out of the circuit.
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I mount the RailPro module over the rear weight with the screw terminals going towards the cab end. This way heat rises up thru the fans or you can add a 5V fan to exhaust heat.
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Connect motor wires directly to the RailPro module. Cut off black plugs from rear motor and connect the red/blk wires to the M2 screw terminals. Use red wire for +. The front motor wires will be short. To lengthen reuse the removed 4 wire track pick up cable and plug into the short motor wire plug. Connect the red/blk wires directly to the RailPro M1 and M2 motor terminals. This time connect the red to minus. Because, the USA motor blocks are mounted 180’ opposite. Or you can swap the wires below on the motor block if you forget.
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I always do a test here to make sure the battery powers the system. Connect the red/blk wire from the on/off switch to the track input screw terminals on the module. Turn on. Next Link the hand controller to the module to test the radio by pressing the find button. Select the no name loco and run the motors. If all is good, now you know that your wiring and the radio works.
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Next tackle the lights. That is a lengthy conversation for the next installment. Or contact me at at [email protected]
Don
