United Scale Models Santa Fe 2-8-0

[knewsom]

I just bought a Brass United Scale Models 2-8-0 Santa Fe off of Ebay. This is the green box version and it comes with the Pittman DC-70 motor. I have two other United PFM Engines that came in the blue box. Can anyone explain the difference between United Scale Models exclusively for PFM and the United brass engines in the green box?

Also, I need to convert this to DCC to run on my layout, can anyone give me suggestions for remotoring and installing a decode in this engine and removing the decals without harming the paint job.

Thanks in advance,
Kevin

[JerryZeman]

QUOTE: Originally posted by knewsom

I just bought a Brass United Scale Models 2-8-0 Santa Fe off of Ebay. This is the green box version and it comes with the Pittman DC-70 motor. I have two other United PFM Engines that came in the blue box. Can anyone explain the difference between United Scale Models exclusively for PFM and the United brass engines in the green box?

Also, I need to convert this to DCC to run on my layout, can anyone give me suggestions for remotoring and installing a decode in this engine and removing the decals without harming the paint job.

Thanks in advance,
Kevin

IIRC, the green box versions are just older, they were still imported by PFM.

If there is nothing wrong with the motor, don't convert it. I have several older United and Tenshodo locomotives with open frame motors and decoders. I'm using NCE D102s, which have been superceded by the D13SR.

Decoder installation is a snap. The hardest part for me on GN engines with the small Pyle headlight is drilling out the HL for the bulb. Installing the decoder is the easy part.

My preferred method of installation is to place the decoder in the engine, eliminating the wiring to the tender., unless you want to install backup lights in the tender. Make sure that the motor is completely isolated from the frame. Other than that, it is a simple four or six wire installation (seven if you install a light in the tender)

For stripping decals, try coating the decal with Champ decal-set, or Walthers Solva-set, which will soften the decal enough to allow you to remove it.

regards,
Jerry Zeman