I have a new-in-box Kato NW-2 that is several years old (c. 2000?). I don’t think it has a plug n’ play. I think I read that it was difficult to install a decoder in these switchers. Anybody have experience with them or know something about possible problems with an installation?
Mike
I’ve done one, and it’s not easy. See http://www.tcsdcc.com/decoderpics/Kato%20NW2/kato_nw2_m1.htm
Take your time, and it will work. I didn’t grind off the mounting pins, but I did most off what this installation says.
I used a Lenz Gold Mini, and it runs GREAT.
Unfortunately, my cat knocked it off the workbench, and it broke a coupler pocket, which you can’t get anymore.
I have a pair. I had to mill a pocket in the top of the frame to make room for the decoder. If you have access to a mill, then it really is pretty easy. If not, well I suppose if you’re really cautious and take your time you could do something with an end mill in a Dremel tool.
I have 4 of those models, and they are some of the quietest and smoothest running switchers I own. They are not DCC ready and there is no room anywhere for a decoder short of milling out a cavity in the top of the weight. I used Lenz LE077FX decoders, which were the only ones available at the time that were small enough. The Lenz decoder has a different number now. A TCS M-1 decoder is about the same size, and there may now be other dime-sized decoders on the market.
I milled a pocket in the fuel tank for a Digitrax DZ143. I also milled channels to run the lighting wires. I used a Dremel tungston bit in a Dremel drill press. It took 3 evenings of very careful work, but the result was well worth it. The Kato NW-2 is an outstanding switcher.
I found the link mentioned above very helpful. Note: getting the shell off is very difficult. I followed instructions that I found at the Kato web site. Take your time; it’ll be worth it.
I chickened-out several times before I actually did the install, but here it is. It was well worth it. Too bad it’s not sound, but that may have been impossible…
http://members.cox.net/craneji22/Kato_NW2_Decoder_Install.html
Jim