Will a Life-Like P1k HO RS-2 body fit a new Walthers chassis?

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Hi, I have an original HO Life-Like Proto 1000 RS-2 in New Haven baloon livery, old chassis and motor, not DCC ready (item 31279). I know that when Walthers took the line over they introduced a new motor and a 9-pin DCC connector. I see from Walthers website that the RS-2 is to be discontinued, and I was thinking of getting one before they are gone to replace the chassis on my NH #0509, as a general upgrade and step towards DCC and sound. Before I do, I am wondering, is the old body a straightforward fit on the new chassis, or are there issues I should know about?

Grateful for advice,

Bill.

2

I have the parts sheets for both versions, and it looks like the shells and frames are the same.

If you want to go with just DCC and no sound, a Digitrax DH163AO decoder will fit the old Life-Like version.

As you mentioned, a 9 pin plug and play decoder will fit the new Walthers version.

I’m not into sound, so I have no idea what type of sound decoders will fit either loco.