Bachmann 2 function decoder?

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

Howdy!

I have gotten my brand new HO Spectrum 4-4-0 out of the box and I am getting it ready for service on the S.L.O.&W. Looking at the specs on the elcheapo decoder that comes with it, they have been purposefully vague about the speedsteps available in CV 29. In some places it says 14/27 or 28/128, in other places it says can use 14, 27, 28, and 128 speed steps. In the PDF that is downloadable it says CV29 bit 8 0=14/27, 1=28/128. All my present decoders are 128 speed steps and I want a decoder in this little beauty that also respons to 128 speed steps.

Can any of you clarify if the Bachmann decoder does indeed respond to 128 speed steps when set up properly? I wouldn’t have noriced this probably but the loco does about 200 scale miles per hour at speed setting 29… I don’t run sound so a 2 function decoder is all I want and need for steam in 1925.

Thanks in advance!

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It’s pretty much the same as (or maybe it actually IS) the Lenz LE1000. I believe it does have 128SS, but all in all it’s a VERY poor decoder, lacking any form of slinet running or high frequency drive. Since it already comes in the loco I guess it’s ok to leave it there, but I really cannot recommend anyone EVER purchase one of these to install in their loco. The NCE D13SRJ is available for the same price and is far superior in almost every way.

–Randy

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Thanks Randy! I have heard that they tend to run noisy. I guess the best plan would be to get a better decoder while I have her apart for decaling rather than waiting until later. I understand there is no “kick” start provision. Slow running didn’t seem to be an option when I tested her out. Likes to run FAST though…