Recommended decoders for non-dcc locos?

[gpharo]

I have about a dozen or so analog locos (non-dcc ready). Mainly Athearn and some Atlas and Proto 2000.  I am thinking of buying the same generic decoder for all of them (unless they require a specifc one).  I am contemplating TCS T1 or Digitrax DH126D, any recommendations or other suggestions would be helpful.  My DCC system is a Digitrax Zephyr Xtra.  Thanks.

[Anonymous]

I don´t think that "one size fits all" is the right attitude when it comes to fitting a decoder to your DC locos. The choice of decoder depends on

• the room you have available inside the loco
• the maximum current the loco draws

Additionally, the choice may also depend on how many extra functions and features you want to incorporate.

 

[mobilman44]

Hi,

Your best answer would be to go on the Digitrax, NCE, and the other major decoder websites and look up your particular locos.  As said, one size sure doesn't fit all.  While I have a Digitrax system, all the purchased decoders are NCE and have worked just fine for many years.

When I was in your position, I drew up a spreadsheet listing the locos on one side, with a column for each of the 3 major decoder suppliers.  I hit each website and slotted in their recommended model number.  I found several locos worked with the same decoders, and some had unique ones.

 

[bandmjim]

I agree with the other, but would recommend you check out this site TCS.  http://www.tcsdcc.com/Customer_Content/Installation_Pictures/HO_Scale/HO_Search/search.html

As they have good info on most loco;s most with pics.  They show their own decoders but you can use any.

I stick with NCE and TCS decoders for non sound, many NCE decoders you can buy in bulk packs of 4 or 10 for some savings if you go that route. 

[rrinker]

 Tes and no. Despite there being some specific decoders for Proto 2000 locos, I always repalce the light bulbs with LEDs, so the specialized decoders are pointless - I just used TCS T1 in all of mine. Depending on the version of Atlas, it may take a board replacement like the TCA A-series, or it may have an 8 pin plug. I tend to prefer hard wiring a lower cost decoder like the T1 whenever possible, factory wiring boards have been know to have defects or just plain be faulty. If I run the wires myself, I know I've got the track pickups connected properly as well as the motor wires. Slightly more effort but the simple decoders are also less expensive.

 Since I only use Loksound for my sound locos, one I use up my last TCS decoders I will probably start buying Lokpiliot for the non-sound units. Price comperable with the TCS and even better motor drive, plus directly compatible with the Loksounds.

                               --Randy

[gpharo]

Thank you all for the valueable info. I like the idea of comparing the 3 major decoder suppliers in some sort of chart.  I am not overly familiar with Lokpilot decoders.  Which one would be comparable to the Digitrax DH166D or TCS T1?

Also in your opinion should BEMF be a feature in any decoder I choose?  I know what it is, but I'm not sure it's a must.

 

[Guy Papillon]

After reading many times Randy's advice about hardwiring generic decoders, I gave it a try and I like it.

gpharo

Also in your opinion should BEMF be a feature in any decoder I choose?  I know what it is, but I'm not sure it's a must.

IMHO, yes. I have only one decoder without BEMF and it is the only one that I have trouble with in regard of starting speed. It is almost impossible to get a constant slow start.

 

[ricktrains4824]

BEMF does indeed help with starting at lower speeds, so, if lots of switching, it is a important consideration.

I have done everything from PnP, board replacement, hardwire, even sound installs, using various decoders, depending on room and loco model. (About 2/3 of my roster is sound equiped now, but I turn the volume way, way down.) Some of my units have the same decoders, but some do not, as another fit better. 

Because of this, I have a wide variety of decoders in use, no issues with any of them running on Zephyr Xtra. (And, Xtra gives the boost programming option for sound decoders that need it, so no issues programming either.) 

Edit: Typo corrected.

[jjdamnit]

Hello all,

I've had good luck with the Digitrax HO Scale DH126P 1.5 AMP DCC Decoders for DC to DCC conversions.

They are 2-function decoders with a 3-inch harness and an 8-pin NMRA plug.

For hard-wired installations I simply snipped off the 8-pin plug and solder them in place.

These are available in 5-packs through eBay; Digitrax HO Scale DH126P 1.5 AMP DCC Decoders 5Pk for $89.95 with free shipping.

I agree to convert any incandescent bulbs to LEDs. Again, I purchased LEDs through eBay that included the correct resistors and instructions.

The Mixed Colored ones are great for marker lights and beacons but the white ones are almost too bright. The Warm White ones are perfect for headlights.

I've also converted two rotary snowplows from DC to DCC using Train Control Systems #1479 KAM4-LED 4-function decoders.

The TCS decoders are LED ready, meaning you don't have to use resistors when installing LEDs.

Because the snowplows are "unpowerd" (no traction motors) the motor control function of the decoders control the motors that turn the plow blades.

The 4-auxiilary functions of the decoders control the LED front headlights, rear headlights and the front and rear beacons, that I installed. 

Hope this helps.