Though I model the BN as of 1970 I still (like most of us) enjoy watching/running steam locos. I have a 15 year old still new in the box (don't ask why) Atheran 2-8-2 Mikado. I was thinking of converting this to run on my DCC layout, having the work done by my LHS. Just looking for opinions - would you spend the $ to convert or spend a bit more to buy something newer with DCC already installed (maybe BLI?). I have no outlet at the moment to sell the Atheran. Thanks all.
I've never owned one, but IIRC some of these first run Athearn Mikes had an issue with cracked drive gears. Maybe someone else can confirm. Other than that, most locos introduced in the last couple of decades anticipate a decoder install, so if it's a runner/keeper on DC, there should be no need for newer power to convert to DCC.
Mike Lehman
Urbana, IL
If this loco is "DCC ready" all you have to do is pull the wire out of the tender, remove the dummy plug that is on the end of the wire, and plug in any decoder with a JST 9-pin header such as a TCS T-1 or NCE D13SRJ.
But, as Mike Lehman wrote, those models had a serious cracked gear problem and Athearn provided no replacements because the Korean manufacturer went bankrupt.
Try running it on DC and see how it performs. If you hear a thumping noise and see it jerking down the track, it has a cracked main drive axle gear. North West Short Line used to stock a replacement gear for those locomotives because Athearn had none.
If the engine is not a simple DCC plug-in, and I'm guessing it's not, they you're going to pay $30-50 to have a decoder installed. If that's the case, you might think about going with sound as long as you're making that investment. Spending $30 to install a $15 dollar decoder doesn't seem right to me.
On the other hand, I think you should give this engine a test on DC before installing sound. Older Athearn diesels, at least, have a reputation of being "meat grinders" and making a lot of their own mechanical noise running down the track. I just DCC-ized an older Athearn switcher with a simple decoder. I was planning to add sound, but after hearing it in action I'm not sure anymore.
But, by all means, take it to your LHS. They can give you a good idea of what the engine is, and what it can be.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
Turn it over and look at the gear plate, it will say where it was made. I have three made in Korea, one new never run in box and two running for the past ten years and no cracked gears. Hit or miss for the cracked gear issue, I was told ten years ago.
Frank
My bad for not making my post clear. I would convert to DCC w/SOUND, if this changes anyone's advise. And to Mr. Beasley, I would take it to Maine Trains to do.
Your not bad some response's were about cracked gears, still no problem, in the tender,you unplug and plug in, like other poster's said. Mounting a speaker though will require drilling holes in the tender floor, also no big, it has a removeable weight and plastic tender floor.
Just an idea here...
There are some real deals out there on BLI Mikes, both heavy and light, both "BlueLine" and full sound.
I picked up a Light Mike in Blueline with a motor decoder installed and programmed for around $150.
Again, just something to consider. Ed
TophiasI have a 15 year old still new in the box (don't ask why) Atheran 2-8-2 Mikado.
I was thinking of converting this to run on my DCC layout, having the work done by my LHS. Just looking for opinions - would you spend the $ to convert or spend a bit more to buy something newer with DCC already installed (maybe BLI?). I have no outlet at the moment to sell the Atheran.
Sounds like one I used to own, sell it! Even though mine never had a cracked gear, there are much better engines out there, especially because you want DCCF and sound.