Engineer-Joe posted:Well although you did start the troubleshooting correctly, you didn't finish it.
You need to connect things methodically to narrow down where the trouble lies. Only connect or change one thing at a time to be sure to eliminate possibilities. Sure that takes a lot longer, but unless you're really lucky, you won't be able to conclude anything.
For example if channel one fixed works on a block, then try channel two fixed on that same block and the rest of the channels. If a block is a problem no matter what channel is used, that helps pinpoint the problem closer. There can be anything going wrong so don't think anything is safe. Even a switch or dependable engine, everything should be considered broken until proven otherwise.
In a lot of instances, it is recommended to start with a single piece of track connected to the TIU. That helps eliminate things and have a starting point. When someone can't even get a piece of track to co-operate, it's easier to see what's wrong.
You may just have a wiring issue between blocks or similar problem. Your Yellowstone ran fine on another layout so that also helps point to another issue.
Perhaps I didn't express myself well but I believe that I did what you are suggesting: I methodically tried each channel with block 3. I am planning to review the wiring for anything loose, but I do have good signal strength (as measured by a different locomotive - I presume that measurement validates a particular block for all engines, accepting any internal variabilities.
I do plan to try the system again today sans Yellowstone to see if it behaves �� Frankly I am rapidly growing tired of the DCS dilemma - it is chewing up more time than it is worth!
