DeOxIT Track Cleaning Update and Aegis Unboxing (356)

[@emoisit]

Have not seen any of your videos come up in my notifications for over a month. I am still subscribed. Not sure why KZbin didn't want me to see your videos. It is always something I look forward to every time they come out. Anyway... This video popped up after I was watching an unrelated video. So now I have a few I can go back and watch now. The last video I saw was the corresponding track cleaning video. Great video and information. Thank you Larry!!!

[@rl7881]

I would like to endorse the importance of maintaining clean track with DCC control. After a career in industrial instrumentation and control, I was confident that when designing and building a layout it would work perfectly first time. Of course it didn’t. After checking my drawings and testing all the wiring, I concluded that it should be working. The track looked shiny and clean, but after working a Peco Track Rubber over it, followed by some cleaning fluid, it was apparent that the track was filthy. Subsequent testing with a loco was then 100% successful. Clean track = happy operators.

[@AudiOhm]

I was first using 99% isopropyl alcohol every couples of days on the tracks and engine wheels, It seemed to be cleaning well, the non abrasive cloth was quite black after each cleaning...I then switched to electrical contact cleaner (after watching a few videos). This to me did the track, I can go weeks without cleaning the tracks and engine wheels, and when I do there is very little discoloration on the cloth.

[@hoosiercustoms]

Typing this before watching the video. I ordered DeOxit it as soon as you released the first video on the topic. Previously I was trying No Ox id and I thought I was having excellent luck until the tracks finally did get dirty. I found it was extremely difficult to get proper conductivity. Whats funny about it is that your tracks will look so clean but the thin layer of grease seems to isolate them. Anyways my experience with DeOxit has been absolutely amazing. I found that it doesnt necessary keep the tracks from turning black, but it does however create outstanding conductivity conditions. The trains run so smooth, and it seems to slightly lubricate the wheels too without giving up traction. I really appreciate you Larry. Watching the video now!

[@TheDCCGuy]

Glad to hear it is working so well for you.

[@thomasgrassi8817]

Larry thanks for the update on the DeOxit I now have mine planning to use it in my cleaning car.

[@ColtonRMagby]

The Aegis unit looks amazing, and the DeOxIt appears to be working as expected. I hope the DeOxIt continues to work as intended as long as possible with minimal effort from you.

[@randydobson1863]

hello Larry & it's is Randy and i like yours video is cool &Thanks Larry Friends Randy

[@CashSly]

Yeah, mine showed up today! Boo, missing the US adapter cord. I sent Iron Planet a request to send it. Iron Planet repackage the aegis system when they sent it to me so imagine that the cord was just missed in the process. My packaging didn’t look like yours. I mentioned your video so they could see where the cord is in the packaging. Aside from that, this system looks great. Can’t wait to get it hooked up! Thanks again for posting your videos. Always what I need and when I need it.

[@TheDCCGuy]

When I got the prototype direct from China it came without a US power cord. Fortunately I had an old one saved from a Dell laptop power supply that fit it fine. So you might look around and see if you have one that will fit.

[@CashSly]

I did a quick search and found an old printer cord that plugs right in. I hooked it to and it works perfectly. I think I was running beyond the limits of my power cab alone could provide. My layout is running fantastic with this system. Thanks so much for demonstrating this product.

[@doug383]

Same here my package did not look like yours,and the u s power plug is missing. I belive they sent me the british plug.

[@CashSly]

@@doug383 contact Iron Planet. I did and they sent me the proper cord. Great customer service.

[@TheDCCGuy]

@@doug383 If it came from Iron Planet then you need to contact them. If from the UK then you need to contact DCCconcepts. However I will let them know this is happening.

[@elsdp-4560]

Thank you for sharing.👍

[@mikeseba7817]

Many thanks!

[@eprohoda]

greetings. Model~Wow!total awesome ,

[@waynekeeton8327]

Thanks for the review on the Aegis system, I immediately went and ordered one from Iron Planet Hobbies (it’s on back ordered)

[@TheDCCGuy]

Yes, the first shipments from the Chinese factory are dedicated to filling preorders. Once they get caught up on those I expect them to actually ship them to vendors to fill their shelves. However the initial run is limited so they may never reach that point if sales exceed supply.

[@philipwells9498]

Larry, I would like to ask you a question on another subject if that is okay. I am having a problem with a loco not responding to its assigned 4 digit address. However, it will respond to all other addresses. I am looking for a reason why my Digitrax system would exclude that specific #. I am not using any consists and all other locos are CV=19 =0. I can run the loco as is but was just at a loss why it has been excluded from the specific #. The CV 17, 18 have been correct for the excluded #. Thanks for any thoughts.

[@TheDCCGuy]

You left out the most important part-what address are you trying to use?

[@yukonjohn9480]

I found alcohol caused my track to be slippery on grades. I’ve used very thin layer of No-Ox-Id and have never experienced any loss of traction. I have 3% ruling grades on my layout. Typically run 12 car trains with both steam & diesel.

[@peteengard9966]

I've been using a simple red rubber block eraser for decades. Non abrasive and works amazingly well. I still run a couple of slider cars occasionally. The block eraser can be cleaned with soap and water.

[@TheDCCGuy]

I think the downside to rubber erasers, as well as the abrassives in most most bright boy types, is the residue they can leave behind.

[@peteengard9966]

@@TheDCCGuy They don't leave any residue behind. They're pencil erasers. Not the abrasive pen type. You just swipe it along the top of the rails and you're done.

[@TheDCCGuy]

Then why do I have to brush off my paper every time I use an eraser?

[@peteengard9966]

@@TheDCCGuy Just try and see. I don't get any stuff left behind. But the eraser turns awfully black after a few times. In the past I've tried all the popular things from goo gone to alcohol. While I still use alcohol for new track and a yearly cleaning. The big red/pink sometimes eraser is the go to agent.

[@SD45-ET44AC]

Using a Digitrax Zephyr Express on my first 4’x8’ N scale layout it has been simple to get started, but it’s frustrating with just the single base unit. I looked at a throttle with ports on each side to operate from more than just one place, but it proved easier to just add a UR92 & use a DT602D throttle and this has greatly improved my fun. Never having had a previous throttle I find this throttle to be relatively simple & straightforward to use. I tried the de-ox-it, but wasn’t aware that it needed to be diluted & I ended up using too much causing sluggish operation, but wiped the whole layout clean & started over just cleaning with a cloth & that works best for me.

[@TheDCCGuy]

Yes, since Digitrax came out with their first wireless throttles in the late 1990s I have been using wireless throttle almost exclusively. You do still need to have a few fascia panels for those cases where you actually need to plug in the throttle.

[@Abrahams_stuff]

Should I use some sort of roadbed on my model railroad? Some people say not to use it if you're going to have a big yard others say you should use it especially if you have a big main line but I really don't know about it I'm pretty new to the hobby looking to build my first layout soon.

[@TheDCCGuy]

Some folks prefer to use cork sheet for yards and other areas where roadbed was not built up. However elsewhere the roadbed is built up considerably and I have even cut ditches on each side of cork roadbed to increase the slope. I also know of folks who use two layets of cork roadbed to get the correct elevation.

[@paulthewall4764]

I believe the harsh reality is that you must clean your track regularly. I will concede that the more you run the, longer between cleanings, so RUN YOUR TRAINS MORE OFTEN!

[@TheDCCGuy]

I agree, there is no magic bullet.

[@TonVerkleijT3]

I have a question about the signals you mentioned earlier, would it also be possible to make a train to break slowly to a stop if it encounters a red signal in just a simple way without expensive software?

[@TheDCCGuy]

There are decoders that will stop if a DC current or if a certain inbalance is applied to the rails. However to say it is simple would be a stretch. I know that some LokSound and DCCconcepts decoders do this.

[@greenbean6581]

Larry, When you make a process change you should only change one thing at a time then step back and watch the results otherwise you have no idea which change improved or made things worse. So, which worked? cleaning with a dry rag? cleaning with a rag soaked in Isop? the Deoxit/Isop mix? or a combination of all three. I'm disapointed as after watching the video I still have no idea if the Deoxit is worth the money.

[@TheDCCGuy]

So test it yourself. First clean with a dry rag and see how that works for you. Then try IP and see how that works. Then try DeOxIt. In my case I wanted to start with essentially new clean track for the DeOxIt to work on.

[@perrypollino456]

I received my Aegis from Iron Planet yestetday. It will be a few weeks until i can play with it. It came to me very well packaged. I am looking forward to beng able to add a second wireless cab. I am also looking at other DCC concept products to control my tortoise switch machines via facia mounted panel. But I am very confused by thier offerings

[@TheDCCGuy]

It takes a while to get used to their website and product naming approach.

[@perrypollino456]

I Have been a follower of you since you owned your own shop and was a customer. I have bounced around using Digitrax, ESU cab control, and have NCE power cab for my bench. I planned to use ESU cab control but now switching to DCC concepts Aegis. I only tested the ESU. Yes the DCC Concepts website is confusing and my inquires to DCC concepts have caused me even more confusion. I want to have facia mounted panels to control my points. Basically a stand alone bus. I do not care to Operate my points via a cab. I also need to have a mirrored panel on each side of my peninsula so I can cntrol it from either side and have it indicate on both sides. I am dumbfounded.

[@TheDCCGuy]

I did a video on installing their wireless ESP system for layout control and how to build a control panel. Also if you have deep pockets they will actually custom build control panels for you. They have at least one employee who specializes in it.

[@perrypollino456]

I watched that video a while back. I have been working with Mick and Chris at DCC concepts. I am trying to figure out all the components I will need. I will be using Alpha encoders, mimic Panels, and Alpha I switch buttons. That shoud all plug into my New Aegis system. The talk to NCE switch 8 decoders Via DCC. I do not plan to operate my points with my cab, rather via my switch panels. Thanks

[@stamrly418]

A question on cobalt digital point motors. To have the supply different from the DCC track power looks difficult [or have i got it wrong]. Keeping the point motor supply different from the track power is recommended so the point motor will work if a train is run onto the point and shorts out. How can it be done and what will you lose or gain. Using a separate power district for the point supply looks the only option…but ..i am willing to be proved wrong. Trying to get it right before I start the instal. Thanks Amacf

[@TheDCCGuy]

As you say because of the design, completely isolating the iP Digital would require having a separate accessory bus.

[@charleswolf1463]

Thank you for your review. Why is so many doing updated equipment got NCE except NCE?

[@TheDCCGuy]

Not exactly sure what your question is but NCE no longer stocks their own products, they just sip to vendors. So their website is basically always showing out of stock.

[@charleswolf1463]

Power Cab is physically unchanged for 15 years not including updated EPROMs. The engineers cabs are unchanged in 8 years where Digitrax redid almost everything to color displays.

[@TheDCCGuy]

Actually the basic cab design goes back to the Wangrow System 1 cabs of 1993. However a lot of users love that cab design. As for the new Digitrax throttles, I have a DT602 but I still prefer my DT500.

[@waynekeeton8327]

Does the spiral phone cord that came with the NCE power cab work with Aegis?

[@TheDCCGuy]

Yes, the 6 wire cable is used to either connect the PowerCab directly to the Aegis base station when using the service mode programming track or to connect it to the wireless transmitter.

[@MrOmega52]

Bring us periodic updates of the deposit and the eagis systwm.

[@paulthewall4764]

Tons of questions. What kind of locomotive? What % grade? How tight a radii?

[@TheDCCGuy]

stewart F3, 1.8-1.9%, 30”.

[@paulthewall4764]

Thanks@@TheDCCGuy

[@DavidDiCarlo-v2m]

Great video and would like to give Deoxit a try. Went to Amazon to look it up and they have a lot of different products and I couldn’t tell exactly which one you used in your research. Can you advise which type or product number this is? Thanks?

[@TheDCCGuy]

Did you go back and watch the previous video for which I provided a link and also provided an Amazon link in the description?

[@DavidDiCarlo-v2m]

@@TheDCCGuy ok thanks Larry and I forgot you provided that link. Will check it out.

[@soheiltrains]

Nice video, do you know how the DeOxIT will work with a smaller engine? Like a 0-6-0 or 0-4-0?

[@TheDCCGuy]

I would expect it to be the same.

[@waynes3606]

Which type of Deoxit are you using please?

[@TheDCCGuy]

Watch video #351 and read the description.

[@waynes3606]

@@TheDCCGuy ok thankyou.

[@stewarttrains98]

How are your cars weighted ? Are they plus or minus NMRA R.P. ?

[@TheDCCGuy]

Video #202

[@seancrossen4659]

Do you ever think you might explore a dcc-ex setup

[@TheDCCGuy]

Not likely. It would be a waste of time and resources for me as I already have at least a dozen DCC systems so it would just be one more for the pile. Plus there are already videos on it as well as a websites so I don’t feel the need to duplicate that content, especially if it means having to spend a bunch of my valuable time to figure out how it all works, etc. Pretty much the same reason I don’t jump down the rabbit hole of arduinos, you could have a whole channel dedicated just to applications of those.

[@KN-yc8wu]

Does DeOxit have any detrimental effect on traction tyres? I run N Gauge, and some of my locos have silicone tyres, and others have neoprene tyres. I have read and heard many stories regarding cleaning fluids causing tyre damage or complete failure due to melting them! Great video, and very useful information.

[@TheDCCGuy]

The manufacturer says it is safe on plastics-I’ll dig up a traction tire and see.

[@KN-yc8wu]

Thanks for taking the time to do this. I'm in UK but your videos have been so helpful to me since I started with DCC - very much appreciated.

[@jeffheins6624]

Nice video, what was in your final hattons order?

[@TheDCCGuy]

My final order was cancelled as it was a preorder for a Dapol autocoach.

[@jaimegarcia9944]

I want to tell you that when you report that the equipment is available in hobby stores around the world, you must exclude Chile, where the level of the railway hobby corresponds to 1960 or so. I have some old mobile decoders that suddenly stopped operating. I prescribed them and they started working with addresses 1, 2 and 9 but running in jumps. In some cases they respond to the direction and lights and in others they do not. What do you advise me to do, apart from buying others in the US paying for transportation that equals the price and import taxes that double it?

[@TheDCCGuy]

The best I can suggest is to try doing a factory reset to see if that helps.

[@mastervoni1285]

70% or 90% isopropyl alcohol?

[@TheDCCGuy]

91%

[@Llamberg.Railway]

The train is definitely struggling going up the helix

[@TheDCCGuy]

Yes, as I said 16 cars is the absolute max for that Stewart F3a.

[@MXTuber3000]

Who is the target audience for the Aegis system?

[@TheDCCGuy]

You’d have to ask DCCconcepts that question.

[@PerandoPula]

DCC Concepts, oh no again...Now they started sending things to your home address. Will it ever stop?

[@TheDCCGuy]

I think you can opt out of their newsletters.

[@TheDCCGuy]

At the very top of the email is an unsubscribe link, and at the bottom is another unsubscribe link.

[@PerandoPula]

@@TheDCCGuy No Larry, I am subscribed to the channel for years and I am not going to unsubscribe because you don’t like what I am saying. As a person who is following the channel for years I must say that I don’t like tons of DCC Specialties products that you are promoting for a long time as well as other toys which you brought from UK. Correct me if I am wrong but I believe majority of your subscribers are expecting different content on the channel.

[@TheDCCGuy]

@@PerandoPula I meant you can unsubscribe to the DCCconcepts newsletter not my channel. About a third of my viewers are from the UK or commonwealth nations so I am happy to cater to their interests as well as yours. No one is making you watch these videos, just skip it if you don’t like it. I often review products from manufacturers such as DCCconcepts, Digitrax, ESU (German), NCE, and various others. If I find one who is producing innovative new products I am more than willing to help spread the word. Right now you are the only one of my viewers who is complaining about my content and I have greater than 98% positive rating so I am not about to change for one person, I’ll shut down the channel first!

[@PerandoPula]

of course I am not expecting anything to be changed because of me. I am along that 98%, I believe that I gave thumbs up to every single of your video! I just miss old content like installing decoder, speakers, LED's...

[@zonavarbondagoo4074]

Anything that is a lubricant is *not* a cleaning product!

[@duffey3]

Oh no it’s a division of the Psi Corps from Babylon 5!

[@TheDCCGuy]

??????