Walthers Proto E8 (newer model) DCC/Sound Tsunami installation?

[Southwest Chief]

I have a Union Pacific ABB E8 set that I'd like to add DCC/Sound to.  They are newer Walthers Proto models that are DCC ready.  They are the non sound equiped versions.

Walthers product numbers:

• 920-48354 (A unit #943)
• 920-48352 (B unit #945B)
• 920-48355 (B unit #936B)

Looking at the Soundtraxx website, they suggest using their TSU-1000 series decoder.  I noticed that Soundtraxx has a detailed installation .pdf for a Walthers Proto E7.  Looking that over it seems like this would be the installation procedure for my E8s.  

However I was wondering if I could use the existing Walthers light board and plug in the Tsunami decoder into the Walthers 9 pin connector?  As I believe the TSU-1000 series has a 9 pin connector under some of the shrink wrapping.  Sort of a plug and play installation.

Or should I just do the tried and true solid direct solder connection described in the Soundtraxx .pdf for E7s?  I'll have to solder for the speakers.

Any tips/suggestions from any modelers out there who have added a Tsunami decoder to the newer Walthers E8s?

[cacole]

SoundTraxx has stated that cutting away a small amount of the shrink wrap to access the 9-pin JST header on their decoder does not invalidate the warranty, so that would be the easiest way to install one.

[Mark R.]

I've never been a big fan of utilizing the factory boards with the plug. More often than not, I've had some issues with the components on the factory board interacting adversely with the decoder causing things to not work as expected. 

I always remove the factory board entirely and wire straight to the decoder. In a lot of cases, removing the factory board also frees up much needed space to get everything to fit as well.

Mark.

[gmpullman]

I'm in agreement with Mark. This also allows a wider selection of decoders as well... which brings me to another suggestion.

Take a look at the ESU Loksound select decoder. After installing these in several Walthers/P2K Alco PA-1s and a few F-7s my diesel decoder of choice is Loksound. But, you be the judge, this is just my 2¢

I am anxiously awaiting the TCS WowSound Diesel decoder with Keep Alive. I use the steam version and I am MIGHTY impressed with TCS.

Have fun, Ed

[Southwest Chief]

Thanks for all the input.

Loksound is nice. I used Loksound for an Alco PA (AB) lashup.

I like Soundtraxx as well. Most of my locos have Tsunani decoders.