I have twice before installed a decoder in an Atlas RS-1, but it was some time ago and the painful memories have moved to the back of my mind - - until today.
The Atlas web site contains a 2-page instruction sheet on removing the shell which separates from the plastic walkway that is attached to the chassis. The idea is to insert a small screwdriver through the rear truck to reach two tabs. But before you do that, you need to detach four handrails that attach to the cab.
That's where my problems began. I easily detached three of the handrails, but the fourth one would not come away no matter what I tried. I knew that I had to be patient so as not to break it, and I finally got it to detach without breaking it.
Next up were the two rear tabs. After all kinds of manipulations and contortions, I finally had to remove the two wheelsets and the side frames to reach the tabs. Finally got the shell off and then I had to remove the DC light board.
That board is held in place by two vertical tabs that press against openings in the board. The loco is "new, old stock". Being old stock, one of the vertical tabs had "welded" itself into the board and it became a real challenge to free it up with the point of an Exacto knife. I eventually got the DC light board off and then I was able to install the new decoder.
Ugh! Took me over an hour to complete this installation.
Rich
Alton Junction
Did you paint it green yet?
- Douglas
Doughless Did you paint it green yet?
No, this a different one, factory painted.
richhotrain Doughless Did you paint it green yet? LOL No, this a different one, factory painted. Rich
LOL
That's probably, next yrs. project!
Take Care!
Frank
zstripe richhotrain Doughless Did you paint it green yet? LOL No, this a different one, factory painted. Rich That's probably, next yrs. project! Take Care! Frank
Richie