I recently installed a MRC 1636 diesel sound decoder in an Atlas GP40-2. I searched the forum for others that have installed and found a few references to this decoder mostly dealing with the quality of the sound. I would like to know if anyone has experienced the same poor operating performance as I, or perhaps I just have a lemon of a decoder.The loco previously had a Digitrax decoder installed and ran smoothly and quietly. Once the 1636 was installed the loco jumped forward like it was shot out of a cannon, sounded like the gear train was eating itself alive and wouldn’t pull half the number of cars it used to. Switching back to the Digitrax decoder transforms the loco into its former quiet and smooth configuration so I don’t think it is a mechanical issue.Fiddling with the CV’s has produced a somewhat smoother start but there is no way that I have been able to match the speed and running characteristics that are required for a decent consist with other locos. I haven’t an issue with the decoders’ ability to produce sound. It is tolerable and fun to hear and the reality of the size limitations make it difficult at best to reproduce quality sound.I have asked the MRC tech desk for some advice but as of yet have not heard back. It a very busy time and any other time I have had a question they have responded so I expect I will hear something from them soon. In the meantime, I was hoping someone out there has had some experience with this. I contacted member from another forum who was able to give me some encouragement. He was able to finally get his 1636 equipped loco to more equally match his other locos. I, on the other hand, have not had such luck. Anyone out there got any ideas. Thanks and Happy New Year, John C
John Well IMHO MRC cant make a decoder worth purchasing. Get rid of the 1636 and get a solid digitax decoder. Your going to be a lot happier. SD
The three 1636's I've dealt with have all worked resonably well without issue. I have one that the volume is louder then the other two but I've been able to speed match 2 together and run them without issue. There are a few things I don't like about them but for now they will do the trick till Digitrax gets into the sound game.
