I can’t thank the people on this forum enough. For everyone that has helped me thus far, I really appreciate it!!! I was able to do my first decoder installation (and it worked) using the advice and the video link I got from you guys. Its amazing how helpful all you fellow model railroaders are. I can’t think of anything better to say. I just started my MR a month ago. I didn’t even know what a commutator was until a week ago, and now I already learned how to install a decoder.
I didn’t hook up thge lights because I was unable to get resistors and I was too pumped to wait. Do you need the resistors if your only hooking up the front headlight? I don’t have a back light.
To all you beginners out there like myself, anything is possible with the right help!!!
Thanks again,
Smitty
Wether you need a resistor or not depends on the light in the loco. Your avatar shows what looks like an Athearn BB loco with the shell removed, that loco will have a 14V light already installed in it and will not need a resistor. The locos that have LEDs for headlights may need a resistor but some dont. Here is an observation that I have noticed.
Plug in decoders (loco has the PCB and plug already installed) you dont have to put a resistor in for the lights to work even if it is an LED
Exact fit (replaces the main PCB) usually needs the resistor for LEDs and sometimes for regular bulbs. Refer to the instructions for the loco and the decoder for proper installation not all are the same.
Athearn BB conversion kit. Just follow the instructions for the decoder and the light will be fine. You can still install the BB kit into other locos you only need to remove the clips and then solder them to the correct locations on the other loco.
The book DCC made easy is a great place to start. It tells you how decoders work in easy terms and also how to install a couple of different types.
Massey
Whether my advice helped or not, you’re welcome.
I know a lot of posters here badmouth the MRC decoders. But I have installed half a dozen, and they are still working fine. The MRC decoders have three different tabs for lights. One for 12 volt bulbs, one for LEDs, and one for 1 1/2 volt bulbs. No resistors necessary. Just use the appropriate tab for the type of light you are using. The MRC decoders also do not restart from startup, every time track power is interupted momentarily, like the Soundtraxx decoders.
However, it’s hard to beat Soundtraxx for EMD and Alco first generation, prime mover sound.