Decoder choice to fit in Bachmann Spectrum

Model Railroader Electronics and DCC
1

Have their GE 44 Ton and it has very little space to install one. Am leaning toward TCS, as I read they make small, low-cost units. Wanted to reduce ‘heartburn’ by wise first choice. NOT into sound or fancy ‘bells & whistles’! Just want: BEMF and Silent Running; nothing else is necessary. Any advice really appreciated. TTFN…Old Tom aka papasmurf in NH

2

TCS MC2. The instructions from Bachmann show which color wires get soldered to which holes on the edge of the circuit board. Clip off the capacitors too, so it will run better.

http://www.tcsdcc.com/public_html/Customer_Content/Installation_Pictures/HO_Scale/Bachmann/GE_44_Ton/Bachman%20GE%2044%20Ton%20Diesel%20Switcher.htm

–Randy

3

THANKS RANDY! …papasmurf

4

I have used a Digitrax DZ125 decoder in a Spectrum 44 ton HO loco. Very good BEMF.

http://www.digitrax.com/prd_mobdec_dz125.php

The 44 ton draws about 600ma and the decoder is good for 1 amp. Many small decoders with BEMF today are good for 1 amp.

Rich

5

Also on the picture it looks like there is an edge connector that bridges a couple of the holes. That has to be removed so that the track power is not directed to the motor. Failure to remove may damage the decoder.

6

It’s a little hard to solder the wires in the holes with those two copper strips in place - they kind of latch into the holes [:D]

–Randy

7

Some quick thinking individuals would drill a hole through the plate LOL [:-^]

8

Experience talking? [(-D] [swg]

(need the smiley with the big giant LOL sign)

–Randy

9

Slip the wire into the hole and solder. Not a big deal. Just don’t use a solder gun. Use a pencil soldering iron.

Some PC boards have a plastic clip you remove. Put the bare part of the wire into the hole and slip the plastic over the terminal with the wire in the hole.

This is suppose to be a way of installing decoders without soldering.

Rich