Decoder Installation in Atlas C-424

[Anonymous]

With a new ATLAS C-424 Phase II in hand, I'm ready to install my
first DCC Decoder. I observe a medium NMRA plug on one end of the PC
board in the locomotive, and have an NCE P2K-SR decoder on hand which
appears to be ready to mate with the plug without any soldering or
other fussing about. Am I missing something? Since the loco is DCC-
Ready I am assuming that one needs not worry about headlight bulb
voltages as they must already be compatible with the 16 v. DCC
voltage that the system uses. Am hoping that this is really plug-n-
play.....but don't want to fry something by being simple minded. I
can be contacted off line ([e-mail]) Rod Carr

[nfmisso]

Rod;

Take a look at: http://www.dcctrains.com/technews/gp730_precautions.htm

Use a 1½ volt battery (AAA or AA cell is fine) to check the voltage rating of your light bulbs. If they are bright with a single battery powering them, you need to add resistors in series with them. Some people change to 16V bulbs, but you run the risk of melting the shell. The resistor should be isolated from the shell as they get hot too.

[Anonymous]

Thank you Nigel. It appears that there are resistors under the shrink wrap in the wires leading to the lights. The 1.5 test does not light either of the bulbs, so I guess we are off and running. Unless someone else has experience with this specific loco that they wi***o share. Rod Carr

[Pennsy58]

I have this engine and plugged a decoder into the plug. No problems with the lights. They are ready to go with DCC.

[edowdy]

Rod - I have a pair of the Atlas Classic C-424s into which I installed Lenz decoders. Lighting works great with no modifications needed with a drop in decoder. They are extremely smooth running locos. Ted

[ClinchValleySD40]

Some manufactures are getting pretty smart and allowing for both DC and DCC in the bulbs department. One (of many) reason I really like the Atlas stuff.