Atlas Trainman H0 Genset with Dynamic Breakes

[faraway]

The new Atlas Trainman Gensets (NRE 3GS21B-DE) with Dynamic breaks arrived an hour ago.


A direct compare with the "old one"


The new handrails are finer but Atlas is not trying to do the most fine handrails of the world. But they are still quite robust. I had absolutely no problem handling the engines while installing the DCC decoders.
Detail compared with the "old one"






The DCC decoder installation is different. The 8-pin connector is at the front of the PCB and the "old" location under the weight in the rear is to far away to be reached with standard supplied wires (of the Zimo MX630R decoder). The front has no space and the shell will not close if the decoder is simply put on top of the drive/PCB unit. Close to the motor is a large gray block/capacitor used for RFI suppression. The decoder fits well on top of the PCB if that capacitor is removed (cut off).
Note, please understand your local RFI regulations and possible penalties before removing the capacitor!



An open problem is the changed shape of the platforms and the handrails at the end in tight curves. The platforms touch, the handrails jam and one engine derails if the rear engine is pushing. On the photo is Kadee #156 installed on both engines. The shape of the old Genset ends did not cause this problem.

Prototype of a quick fix

is good enough in the curve. Looks the same but the pushing power is at the rod and not the handrails.

and a black painted brass wire with two loops solves the problem for the next time. Anyhow be carefully if you intend to run a pair of the new Gensets if you have tight curves on your layout!


How does it run? Like an Atlas locomotive usually run