Anyone have any experience putting in a decoder on an HO Trainmaster? Bachmann? I have put Digitrax units in all my other engines. But only because I have a Digitrax Super Empire rig. The Digitrax decoders are very convenient for me to purchase since a dealer I trust is nearby. Of course any decoder obviously will work and I am open to whatever works + power. I am not looking for too many functions. Just lighting functions and the ability to do the Digitrax consisting on multiple lash-ups. In any event, I took apart the Trainmaster this afternoon to check out the space and ...... Gaaaaaaaaawd is it tight in there. Plus, Bachmann doesnt seem to have this thing DCC ready. So it will take some doing to connect the wires. The electrical connection now is by wipers on the frame/weight assembly which is isolated down its front/rear axis. Then the light board is fastened to the top of the shell w/ its own wipers resting on the appropriate side of the isolated frame. I would appreciate input from anyone that has successfully mounted a decoder in one of these puppies. Thanks! [ 25. January 2003, 21:07: Message edited by: Kitbash ]
A Zimo MX61 decoder should fit if You have room for: .83x.51x.16 in. A Zimo MX62 decoder is even smaller at .55x.35x.12 in. and still delivers anough to power most modern engines, .7amps continuous and 1.5 amps peak. You can see them here mrsonline , if You are interested. Art
Kitbash; Just be sure all separated lights and motor are isolated from everthing else. To mount the lights: I use a little hot glue (carefully) on the wire. Just be sure you have the right bulb in the right location. Have lot'sa fun. Also Digitrax DZ (Z scale decoders) are fine space savers. Carl [ 30. January 2003, 02:43: Message edited by: squirrelrun ]
