LokSound 8 pin plug

I recently purchased a LokSound V3.5 decoder w/sound that has an 8 pin plug for an Athearn C44-9W (DCC Quick-plug equipped).

I see the C44-9W has the 9 pin jumper board that I guess you disconnect, if you use the 8 pin on the board that came with the engine. The problem is that the LokSound 8 pin plug sits very loose when placed into the 8 pin reciever, and does not make very good contact. Also, although the sound activates in all the functions if I hold it tight, the engine doesn’t move at any throttle speed, and no lights. Is this due to poor contact, although I do have sound?

Should I hard-wire, and forget the 8 pin? Could I just wire into the wires that go directly to the 9 pin jumper?

Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanx

OK…I personally prefer to hardwire decoders (for uber-reliable opperation).

David