‘16XX’ DCC RUNNING ISSUE
Model Rail and Rapido Trains are aware of an issue that affects the DCC performance of the ‘OO’ gauge ‘16XX’ 0-6-0PT. An investigation carried out by Rapido’s Canadian team has pinpointed the voltage suppressor as the culprit. This device protects the model’s delicate electrical equipment from voltage spikes and power surges above 27V. However, the circuit board has been fitted with voltage suppressors with a maximum threshold of 18V, which is affecting some DCC systems.
If your ‘16XX’ has been affected, Rapido Trains recommends two fixes:
If you can identify the suppressor, you can remove it from the circuit board (see below). Most DCC decoders also offer protection from voltage spikes so check that yours offers this.
Rapido has arranged for the production of new circuit boards with the correct rating of voltage suppressor. These are available free of charge for you to fit at home: go to https://rapidotrains. co.uk/16xx-dcc-fix/ to register your details and you’ll receive a PCB as soon as they arrive in the UK.
Rapido Trains UK Sales & Marketing Manager Richard Foster said, “We regret that an oversight with a supplier has spoilt your enjoyment of this model. We apologise for any inconvenience that this error has caused and hope that, as soon as the replacement circuit boards arrive in the UK, your ‘16XX’ will be restored to match-fitness.”
If you are in any doubt about modifying the existing circuit board or fitting a replacement, please contact Rapido Trains UK at: customerservice@ rapidotrains.co.uk l Be careful to not damage the motor connections during removal of the voltage suppressor.