I recently purchased a WM spectrum tender (same as on the 2-8-0) to use with a very old ConCor Y6b, but am having some difficulty with wiring it. I used only the left side power lead, as the Y6b is powered on the right side. Is there a schematic for the tender, or a way to open it to access the inside electrical connections? Any advice on making this project work would be helpful. Thanks.
gord-
You can find exploded diagrams for the Bachmann tenders on this web site
under "Parts and Service." If you are looking for detailed electronic schematics
I suggest that you contact Bachmann and see what they might be able to
provide.
-- D
gordiedi,
The Consolidation tender is easy to open. There is one screw on the bottom, just behind the forward truck. Remove the screw and gently lift and pull backwards.
A general diagram is available by clicking the parts and service icon, then click on the product reference and look for the 2-8-0 diagram.
Once you have the shell off it's not too difficult to figure out how the tender is wired. One truck picks up current from the right rail, and the other truck picks up current from the left rail.
If you are gentle (the wires are small) you should be able to figure out how to turn one of the trucks so both sides will pick up from the left rail. The circuit board inside the tender is marked. With your project, you may want to consider bypassing the board and running the wires directly into the older locomotive.
Lighting is another kettle of fish. I wouldn't attempt to tell you the best way to handle that. Depends on your plans for DC/DCC and if you want a reverse light. I have mounted a reverse light on my Connie tenders and used traditional bulbs with a diode so the light only comes on in reverse.
Regards,
Jonathan
Follow the NMRA wire code for DCC.
Make your tender all wheel pickup.
http://www.55n3.org/cars/tender_wipers/
Get a couple of the below meters. I have three.
http://www.harborfreight.com/7-function-digital-multimeter-90899.html
Get some double clip cleads for testing.
http://www.harborfreight.com/7-function-digital-multimeter-90899.html
Get a pencil type soldering iron, electronic solder and rosin flux from the Shack.
Rich