Bachmann Mountain DCC with Sound Malfunction

[Dan Sheridan]

I purchased a Bachmann Heavy Mountain DCC with Sound in May. Whenever the tender goes over an Atlas frog, the locomotive stops for a pause, the sound goes off, and then it starts up. Sometimes it stops and does not recharge. I have checked out the tender trucks.

Any suggestions for a diagnosis?

Dan Sheridan

[Joe Satnik]

Dear Dan,

Exactly what model of Atlas turnout is this?  What scale?

Sincerely,

Joe Satnik

[Dan Sheridan]

Sorry for the incomplete info. My layout is HO. The turnouts are Atlas #6's.

[Joe Satnik]

Dear Dan,

Your turnouts have blackened metal frogs that can be powered,
but it is only necessary for short wheelbase locos. 

If your long wheelbase locos are working properly, they should be able to get over the unpowered frogs with no problem. 

Given your symptoms, my best guess is that: 

The "rail bus" umbilical between your engine and tender is broken or not fully plugged in.
Usually a wire is busted off its pin in the plug.

If that isn't the problem, let us know.  I'll run you through the rest of the troubleshooting proceedure.  (Ohm-meter needed.)

Others can tell you how to power the frog if you must, or change your tender trucks from two wheel pickup to four wheel pickup.     

Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Joe Satnik