As the title says really but here's why.

Most here know that with my change to N gauge I'm also reverting back to DC due to the availability of stock. Because of this I have sold my DCC controller and all decoders. A buyer now tells me that 1 of these decoders doesn't work and "it appears a dark colour underneath". When he returns it to me I can compare it to the pictures I have which will show whether or not it looks different to when I sold it. Then I'll need someone to test it for me, is there a willing volunteer? Anyone anywhere near me in Devizes maybe? I can include Salisbury, Portsmouth, Southampton, Bognor, Bournemouth etc with that. Can they be fixed if faulty?

Also, does anyone know the score with the TCS "goof proof" warranty advertised by DCC Supplies. Is this a TCS thing or a DCC Supplies thing? Also would it be covered if for example the decoder had been plugged in the wrong way around? Would I need a receipt to show it's less than 12 months old? It is definitely less than a year since I bought it but I'm not sure that I'll have a receipt.

I can't help re testing but the 12 months is by TCS.
 If a decoder is plugged the wrong way around, the only problem is lights not working - the plug is designed to allow the motor to work irrespective of plugging it in the wrong way. If it worked before you sent it off, mmm .

Now lack of receipt - it all depends on how well you know the shop you got it from & how good their records are.

If you happen to be passing by Winchester at some point I will happily plonk it into something and see what's what.

Cheers
Dave

I contacted TCS in the States with a problem with a decoder fitted to a second hand engine purchased on ebay. They asked me to post it to them for a free replacement. Five days after posting back came a new decoder. Brilliant service.

Derek

I had the same experience with TCS as Derek………….helpful and quick

i have returned a tcs to dcc supplies and got a free replacement back by return totally no quibble, i guess it helps if you have the receipt or invoice. I gave them a little letter explaining the problem as well.

Lat time I did it, I went on to their website and got a reference number.  I included that in the parcel when I posted the decoder back.  They sent me a fresh one back freight free.

Thanks guys, I'll get in touch with TCS and see what they can do. I may even have a copy of an email receipt somewhere.

I was thinking though, what if the decoder was fitted and then the loco placed on a DC track? Would this make a "dark colour" appear?

Let us know how you get on Trainfish.

I certainly will let you know what happens if I have to send it back. I may well take up ElDavo's offer yet especially if a daytime visit is possible during the week.
I've looked through my emails and have found that this decoder may actually be 15 months old but I'll still see what can be done with it through TCS if it needs replacing.