DC or DCC

Hello Peter,

Are you using DC or DCC? What system are you using to control the locos? More information is needed to help you.

DCC Layout

Sorry for the lack info.  The layout is DCC with an MRC control.  The locos have DCC installed.

Thanks,

Peter

MRC DCC make it easy!

If you are using the MRC prodigy Express or Advance to program, the system will do it for you.  Set them up in CONSIST mode.  Program the the lead locomotive normally and when it says add loco, using the direction button make sure the trailing locomotive direction is REV, then hit the enter button.  I'm sure other DCC systems will have their own method.  

P.S.  The directions on how to do this are listed on the BACK of the handheld throttles!!

Hope this helps!

I suggest that you make an attempt to understand

 the primary Command Variable (CV's). It can be confusing at first but information is power, and if you expand your system there are tools to help (e.g. JMRI). Information for the Tsunami Digital Sound Decoders installed in Bachmann diesels is referenced at: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/images/dcc_btn4.png.The information on FA2s CV's is contained in the Diesel Tech Reference.

One of those CV's is the Configuration Register CV 29 which is described on page 24. Bit 0 controls the direction of the locomotive.

Bit 0:       DIR, Direction Bit

               0 = normal operation

               1 = direction bit in Speed/Direction instruction is inverted before processing.

Setting bit 0 to a one will set the Normal Direction to reverse. If the bits are set appropriately, the units will run back to back consistently on any DCC layout without reprogramming.

If you have a programming track set up, read CV 29 on the unit you want to run in reverse. It should be an even number. Add one to that number and program CV 29 with the odd number. Test the locomotive by itself before trying to run it in consist.

Like he said .....

Like Nelson said above, your DCC system will handle it for you.  Read up on how to do consisting (or "MU-ing") and just follow the steps.  Both locos will then go the same way.  It's easy, and fun.  Since both locos will be the same type, brand, purchased together, etc, it's very likely they will respond to speed commands the same way and won't fight each other.  That will happen if one loco wants to go faster than another one it's coupled to.  But for you, you're starting out on a very safe path, so do  it and enjoy it!