I have an old Athearn AMD-103, and I’m looking for a decoder for it. Does anyone know what decoder to use?
If you have installed a decoder in one, do you have any tips on installing it?
Thanks
This locomotive will probably require a solder-in decoder, so a TCS, Digitrax, NCE, Lenz, or any 2-function decoder that is not “Plug-n-Play” for a specific locomotive should be okay, because the headlight is the only function you will ever need.
I used the plain old Digitrax with the Athearn style clips already soldered on.DH123AT. Just replace the contact clips with the new ones and you’re in business, very easy.
Was a little jumpy due to the stock Athearn wheels, but once I replaced (jaybee or NWSL) the thing ran perfectly. My best experience ever with a BB loco.
Rich
44T-2 HIT IT ON THE HEAD. If memory serves me - the hardest part of the install for me was remove the motor and replacing the motor mounts ( to electrically isolate the engine) - otherwise straight forward install. I believe there is a small amount of soldering involved to secure the clips. The Athearn AMD 103 is a beautiful engine and arguable one of the smoothest running of the Blue Box/Ready to Run line - well worth the effort.
I wanted to have a sound decoder in my P42, so I used a Loksound. The soundfile I used is for a Nathan 5 chime, and sounds almost exactly like the real thing, which I ride behind about once a year. Quite happy with the results.
A good place for the speaker is under the vent fan, after drilling lots of small holes.
Hal
I just bought an Athearn RTR GP50 and it doesn’t have the DCC quick plug base and ordered an extra one from Athearn for 18.00 and installed a Lenz 418 decoder w/JST and Back EMF. Had to solder the leads from the trucks and to motor/frame
Ch