What is the best decoder to use?
Any of the inexpensive non-sound decoders should work OK. I used an NCE HO decoder.
The Atlas site says the car is not self-propelled. Is a decoder needed to run this on a DCC layout? I was thinking you could get by with a diode bridge rectifier and maybe a resistor.
How noisy is the unit when it is operating? I was thinking that a sound decoder might be kind of fun, especially if you replaced the engine sounds with the Mr. Clean jingle.
The decoder is used to run on the dcc layout. It also allows you to change the speed of the cleaning motor inside the car.
How well does this Atlas unit clean versus the CMX?
I only used mine once then shelved it. It’s Gimmicky to me.
The cleaning part probably isn’t as good but the Atlas does have sanding pads that can buff the rails and get heavy grime off. This could be very useful if you have a lot of hard to reach areas or tunnels.