I kinda like this Blue Line Mikado Southern but I don’t know anything about Blue Line products or how difficult it would be to install a dcc decoder. Are they the plug in type or how does it work? Which decoder to buy?
Anyone know the quality of Blue Line compared to other major brands like BLI and P2K?
Thanks,
Jarrell
BlueLine products are Broadway Limited models that come with a sound decoder already installed that operatates on both DC and DCC, and an 8-pin NMRA socket for the motor control decoder. Intalling a decoder is a simple matter of opening up the tender (in the case of a steam engine) and plugging in a decoder. The Factory Direct Trains web site even lists the recommended decoders, and you can buy the decoder from them when you order the model.
If you can make toast you can install a decoder in one of these engines. BLI/Blue Line engines usually don’t even have the tender held on by a screw, you can just lift it off. I think every company that makes decoders makes an eight-pin “plug and play” decoder and any of them should work. The only thing you might want to check on is to see which CV’s or control functions overlap.
As cacole explained, BLI and Blue Line are the same products, except for the decoder. In comparison I find the P2K to better detailed and better running. They are smoother running, especially in reverse. BLI/Blue Line should be much better pullers, even without traction tires. Sound quality is a tossup, since they all use QSI (at least the ones I have do). That means they are all excellent. Overall they are all excellent products and you should not hesitate to buy one if you like the model. Decoder installation could not be simpler, so don’t let that be a concern for you.
Ok thanks for the information, guys. I’ve heard different things about the programming aspect on Blue Line products. One acquaintance tells me they can be a real problem at times and then again they’re a piece of cake. I guess you have to program the two decoders separately, or do they have 2 or do you just plug in the 8 pin?
Jarrell
Install decoder, place on main line, dial up 03 to confirm operation, use OPs mode programming to programme Cvs 17, 18 THEN 29.
David B