I have an HO scale Athearn GP38-2 that I would like to add DCC and sound to. I would like to use a QSI Revolution decoder. I also want to add proper headlights, backup light and number board lights to it.
Does anyone have experience adding sound to this locomotive? If so what was the speaker you used and where did you locate it? Has anyone ever added a pair of working strobe lights to the cab roof?
Any other hints or suggestions would be appreciated.
I figured that if I am going to do it, I better do it well. Besides the electronics I am planning to add grab irons, lift rings, mu hoses, visors, a plow, etc. Then I will finish up by weathering it. I have done a lot of detailing and weathering before.
I have never installed a decoder but I have rewired a ciruit board and installed different bulbs for constant intensity lighting in a Spectrum DD40AX. All I had was a schematic. I am not worried about the wiring aspect of the project. I've done plenty.
I've read about fiberoptics, but never done any. Getting wire is not a problem.
I have opened the loco (it is a RTR) and there apears to be room over the rear tower for a speaker. The number boards are lightable.
The main reason that I asked was that I want the best speaker possible that will fit. I live a long way from the closest source of DCC equipment so that I will probably have to order by mail. It is a little difficult to determine the best size for a speaker and a baffle when I can not actually see them.
David : thats some great advise on the cheap decoder on first install !