Hello,

I have 2 decoder-equipped turnouts but I don't have a E-Z controller. I would like to change the function key F3 (called 'address' by Bachmann) to another.

We can change the address with NCE for example (in a range 1-100) but it seems that the new address is lost after a while if the power is off. In that case, the decoder works like an accessory decoder. With the E-Z controller, it works like a locomotive with an address and a function key.

So, I would like to change the key like with the E-Z controller but... without using it. Is it possible? How to do?

As we have to press a push button on the turnout then switch the turnout 4 times, I tried that by sending 4 DCC commands, but without success.

The quick answer to your query (from my experience) is that Bachmann turnout switches can only access address (0-9).
If you use a DCC controller (programmer) other than Bachmann, as you stated (0-100), any address above a single digit will not work.   

Since I do not have the NCE, I cannot answer whether or not you can change the address on a Bachmann turnout switch.  The NCE may or may not send the address as a single digit (0-9). It may send the address as 00-09. That double digit, I believe the Bachmann turnout switch cannot handle.

This is the best answer I can provide.

Quote from: Ralph S on February 06, 2026, 09:54:38 AMThe quick answer to your query (from my experience) is that Bachmann turnout switches can only access address (0-9).
If you use a DCC controller (programmer) other than Bachmann, as you stated (0-100), any address above a single digit will not work.   

Since I do not have the NCE, I cannot answer whether or not you can change the address on a Bachmann turnout switch.  The NCE may or may not send the address as a single digit (0-9). It may send the address as 00-09. That double digit, I believe the Bachmann turnout switch cannot handle.

This is the best answer I can provide.

Thanks a lot for your reply. You're probably right concerning the number of digits which should be the origin of the problem.

Anyway, I use this type of turnouts mainly for tests and because I got them for a very low price (and I may resell them!). it's always interesting to know some 'exotic' (for french people!) products.