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Spectrum GP30 decoder Install?

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  • Member since
    December 2007
  • From: Gateway City
  • 1,593 posts
Spectrum GP30 decoder Install?
Posted by yankee flyer on Saturday, January 29, 2011 3:52 PM

Hey Guys

I just picked up a Sprectum GP30 at the St. Charles train show and was very surprised that it does not look like my SD and my GP inside. I would like to put the same kind in as the SD which is a TS 1000. I'm thinking I can grind out enough to put the decoder in top. There's almost enough room for the TS 1000 after I removed the head light board.
For the speaker the best place looks to be the fuel tank but there seems to be something hanging down from the motor.
Before I split the frame has anyone done this kind, and are there any better ideas?

Comments appreciated.

Lee

  • Member since
    July 2003
  • From: Sierra Vista, Arizona
  • 13,757 posts
Posted by cacole on Saturday, January 29, 2011 4:00 PM

That's a very old, early version Spectrum with the split frame.  There are brush contacts pressing against the inside of the frame for electrical pickup.  The only way to get to them to isolate the brushes is total disassembly.  One of those is probably what you see hanging down from the motor.

Sound is impossible without major grinding away of the frame and, in my opinion, is not worth the expense and effort.

Just one of the risks of buying stuff at a train show.

  • Member since
    May 2008
  • 4,612 posts
Posted by Hamltnblue on Saturday, January 29, 2011 4:08 PM

That one looks like it will be quite a job.  I'd sell it on ebay and find a better loco to work with.

Springfield PA

  • Member since
    February 2002
  • From: Reading, PA
  • 30,002 posts
Posted by rrinker on Saturday, January 29, 2011 6:35 PM

 It's the same style as the Dash 8-40CW. Not really that hard:

http://www.tcsdcc.com/public_html/Customer_Content/Installation_Pictures/HO_Scale/Bachmann/Spectrum_Dash_8-40CW/Spectrum%20Dash%208-40CW.html

(I think that's Simon from the forums here)

                --Randy


Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's

 

Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.

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