I have some older lococmotives that I want to have decoders added professionally (By a dealer). They are n-scale steam and electric. Assuming a decoder will fit (DCC) what should I expect to pay per locomotive? (Labor + Decoder)
Dennis,
Welcome to the forum! [#welcome] Good to have you aboard.
First of all, how old is “old”? If they are more an ten years old, they may not be worth investing a decoder in. Purchasing a new locomotive may actually be more cost effective. They do make “N-size” (even “Z-size”!) decoders for locomotives but they can be somewhat persnickedy to put in, when they get that small.
On the concern of cost. Depending on the type, the decoder will probably run you anywhere from $20-30. Digitrax, Lenz, NCE, and TCS are all good brands. However, the cost of the labor for installing one by a dealer? Double to triple that figure. If the dealer has to isolate the frame from the motor, that will be even more. (Dennis, are you starting to think to yourself yet, “Hmmm, maybe I can do that myself?”) As I stated above, N-scale decoder installations are more difficult and tricky because of the size.
If you don’t have anyone locally to install your decoders, either Tony’s Train Exchange (http://www.tonystrains.com) or Litchfield Station (http://www.litchfieldstation.com) can do the work for you. You’ll have to pack up your locomotive and mail it to them but they will both stand by their work. Bruce Petrarca (Litchfield Station) is on vacation till the middle of May but you can get on his web site for some general installation cost figures.
Dennis, I hope that helps…
Tom
Don’t be afraid to try doing this yourself. I was intimidated and kind of scared to do it also but after I installed my first one I realized how easy it really is to do. Lots of people here can walk you through it. Give it a try and save yourself some money.