Happy Labour Day all!
Is anyone aware of a cross-reference for decoders to locomotives? I know there are lots 'plug & play' decoders out there,but I'm having trouble determining what decoders are available for my locos.
Failing a general x-ref, is anyone aware of plug & play decoders for Proto 2000 GP-7/GP-9?
Thanks in advance.D
There are way too many combinations of decoders and locomotives for any such cross reference to be reliable in every case.
The closest thing is to check one of the decoder manufacturer's listings, such as the TCS web site or Tony's Train Exchange on recommended decoders for a specific model.
You could also contact a custom installer such as Litchfield Station, Empire Northern Models, Ulrich Hobby Shop, etc., either via e-mail or phone call, and see which decoder they recommend, keeping in mind that their recommendation may be based on their profit margin.
The NCE P2K-SR is a plug and play decoder for the locos you mentioned. I have four and they work flawlessly.
With regard to a cross reference list, as previously noted they are hard to keep current. NCE used to have one on its web site (for NCE decoders) but I couldn't find it this morning. TCS has the info pertianing to its decoders. From the TCS.com home page click on installation pictures, then on the appropriate scale. You will then get a list of locos alphabetically by manufacturer, indicating the appropriate TCS decoder and in many cases photos of an installation.
While I have been very pleased with the NCE decoders, TCS is now my manufacturer of choice. And both Litchfield Station and Tony's Train Exchange offer excellent service and competitive pricing. You won't go wrong with either of them.
Good Luck!
D
You really can't go wrong with the TCS web site for decoder installs. The pictures are worth more than a thousand words. Even if you don't go with a TCS decoder it gives you some ideas on what you may run into. TCS is my non sound decoder of choice. Their lighting FX are super and they run great with the BEMF.
As for P2K locos. There are so many different boards that went into them. I have some that are pre Walthers and some post Walthers. Some even were put out before DCC quick plugs. Lately I have been hard wiring 9 pin JST harnesses in mine with LED lights and scrapping the P2K boards and wiring. I have a Pre Walthers E7 on my bench as we type that I am hard wiring and LED headlight.
Pete
I pray every day I break even, Cause I can really use the money!
I started with nothing and still have most of it left!