Not new but returning, I got NCE and Bachmann Easy Command, played with JMRI, so got some experience, but things have changed in about 8 years and what I'm looking for is advice on a sound decoder for a Stwart HO F7-A Eary Western Maryland Unit a simple 8 pin drop in decoder, I know I may have to remove the fuel tank for the speaker install, no problem with that...but a simple drop in sound decoder suggestion with no downloading needed...
Ranger,
I would go with either a Loksound Select or a TCS DieselWOW decoder. The wonderful motor-control will really accentuate the Canon/Buehler motors of the Stewarts.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
Bowser sells complete refit kits that include the decoder and speaker, easy install (the instructions are on this page): http://www.bowser-trains.com/history/pschassis.html
That's the EASIEST way. And with arguably the best sound decoder, too.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
thanks that's the one I was considering but wasn't quite sure, much appreciated..
The only thing that would be easier is if you found one of the power chassis that Bowser made - basically the chassis with motor and the decoder already installed, just swap your shell on the new chassis. I have one of those, but they've since discontinued them and repalced them with the kits. Actually, I have two of them, on for an F7, and the other for a DS4-4-1000 switcher. The little switchers needs some of the frame milled out (although I see they offer a frame trade-in for $7 - probably worth it unless you have a milling machine), but the F units it is a direct drop in. You might find the sound chassis at ModelTrainStuff or other dealer, or perhaps on ebay. Or not - I just looked on ModelTrainStuff, they have 1 VO1000 chassis in stock. Significantly more expensive. They do have the F unit kits.
No connections to them, just a multi-time very satisfied customer. They are relatively close to me, so my orders with standard shipping get here in a day or two, which is nice.