HO Scale GE B36-7 Locomotive Support

HO Scale GE B36-7 Locomotive Support

Function Table

The B36-7 Manual has a few errors in the function table. The correct function table is listed below.

Function Key Action
F0 Headlight (directional)
F1 Bell
F2 Horn
F3 Flange squeal
F4 Dynamic brake fan
F5 Doppler horn
F6 Ditch lights (if equipped)
F7 Dimmer (rule 17)
F8 Prime mover start-up
F9 Drive hold
F10 Brake set/release sound
F11 Class lights (BC Rail rock lights)
F12 Switching mode (front and rear headlight on dim)
F13 Gyralite (if equipped)
F14 -
F15 -
F16 Flash ditch lights (if equipped)
F17 Stratolite beacon / SP Emergency light (if equipped)
F18 -
F19 Number boards OFF
F20 Spitter valve

"Removing the Shell" Instruction Correction

As noted in the B36-7 manual on page 8 under "Removing the Shell" is an extensive set of instructions. What was misinterpreted from factory to manual writing is that this was under the impression that the chassis was built into the frame, much like some of our other models. It is not, so please disregard these instructions.

If you would like to remove the entire shell for accessing the inner workings of your B36-7, please follow these simple steps:

  • Remove the couplers from both ends. For some units, the plow may restrict removing the coupler out of the frame. For this, pry the back of the plow gently to break the glue holding it on. Also mind the uncoupling lever, but these can simply be pushed out of the way. Make note of this when reinstalling the couplers.
  • Remove the entire shell as one whole unit.
  • Rejoice, you're done!

If you wish to add a crew to the cab, or to access the cab interior, perform the above instructions. Then, looking at the underside of the cab shell, you will note four clips securing the cab shell to the body shell. Disconnect these and you'll separate the two, revealing the cab floor. This is press fit with small clips that snap to the inside of the cab shell walls. This part is fairly easy to remove, but note that when reinstalling it, the window glass may interfere slightly. Everything will go back together correctly, it just takes a bit of finesse and patience.

Should you have any further issues or concerns, please contact us directly for assistance.

Incorrect Truck Configuration

Some B36-7 have additional truck snubbers that were installed by mistake. To remedy this issue, Rapido is providing replacement truck sideframes to any customer who requests them. If your model has an incorrect snubber configuration, please use the link below to request a replacement.

Please include your full contact information including your mailing address, and the product number of the locomotive(s) for which you require replacement sideframes.

Request Replacement Truck Sideframes

Important DC Advisory

Do NOT use cheaper "train-set"-type controllers with any of your Rapido locomotives. Several models of controller are notorious for voltage spikes and they WILL destroy your locomotive. There is no “if” about it. We will try to help you if we have the parts, but we are not responsible for locomotive damage due to voltage spikes in your power supply. As well, we will not repair any Rapido locomotive damaged by any "train-set"-type DC controller unless you have retired the controller. Otherwise the damage will likely reoccur. “Train-set”-type DC controllers should not be used with any modern model locomotives.

General Problems and Inquiries

If your model arrives with damage or there is any other issue, the best thing to do is to call our support team. They take care of all of our warranty repairs and they are all swell guys. The toll-free number is 1-855-LRC-6917 (1-855-572-6917) (outside North America, + 1 905-474-3314 or 905-474-3324).

Function Issues on Digitrax Systems

If you operate with a Digitrax DCC system and your DCC loco does not seem to be responding as it should, please try the fix described below before contacting us. It may save you some time and aggravation!

Apparently, some Digitrax systems store the address of every single loco that they've ever used on them, and regardless of whether the loco was dispatched or not. Once this memory fills up, any new locos that attempt to be used by that system exhibit very unusual behavior including non-working functions and odd responses.

The solution to this is easy. All you need to do is clear the memory in your system. This is done by clearing slot #36, see the instructions below. Once you've done this, you'll likely find that your loco operates exactly as you expected it should.

General Instructions for Closing Command Station Option Switches (for specific instructions for your command station and throttle, see the instruction manual for your equipment):

  • On the command station, set the MODE toggle switch to the OP (center) position.
  • Using your throttle go into Switch Mode
  • Enter the Option Switch number you wish to change (in this case 36).
  • Press the “c” key on the throttle.
  • You will hear a beep.
  • On the command station move the MODE toggle down to SLEEP then back up to RUN.
  • Using your throttle, turn Track Status back on.

For more information, see this page from Digitrax’s web site.

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