I plan to purchase four mobile (motor-only) decoders. Randy Rinker back in the day suggested the TCS-T1 decoder. Randy was my go-to guy for MR advice and never steered me wrong. TCS is holding a sale on the T1-LED version. They mention that the T1 is an end-of-life decoder and recommend the t4x decoder. The website does not provide detailed specs to compare the two (both have desirable and similar components for a mobile decoder). Appear to only differ in the number of light functions (4 vs 2). I plan to install the decoders in DCC-ready locomotives with only front and rear headlights so the T1-LED should be fine. The T4x-LED is $10 more but would have a warranty period. Is it worth it to go with the newer decoder? How often does warranty come into play? Pretty much a plug-and-play decoder so should not be much worry about installation issues.
Alternatively, anyone have a better mobile decoder suggestion?
Rick,
TCS has been phasing out their T1s with their T4s. As you mentioned, the major difference between them is the number of functions. You can't do much better than TCS for great motor-control. A LokPilot would be an equivalent.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
I have some engines that have operated with a T1 for many years or so without trouble. I found TCS decoders easier to program for things like light functions than some other decoders.
When I click on the warranty tab for the T1 it says it has a 1 year warranty
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
I have had great results using the NCE D13J. This four function mobile decoder is compact (1.03 x 0.63 x .185 inches) and the JST connector makes changing out a decoder quick and easy (I have yet to need to replace one, though). Best of all, the NCE D13J is inexpensive! I have installed several of these decoders in remotored Blue Box locos and, when paired with one of my DIY keep-alive circuits, creates a smooth running loco that will operate at very slow speeds without hesitation.
Hornblower
In my nearly 2 decades of installing and using decoders. You can't go wrong with a TCS decoder. I still run some before BEMF that used Dither instead. Another great feature is that they never get scrambled from shorts or when someone is zero stretching a DC engine on the layout. I have even replaced very expensive Lenz decoders with a TCS decoder that cost less than half the price.
I have a few T series and MC decoders without harness that I have removed from locomotives the last couple years. Been going to sound decoders. Let me know if you are interested.
Pete.
wrench567 In my nearly 2 decades of installing and using decoders. You can't go wrong with a TCS decoder. I still run some before BEMF that used Dither instead. Another great feature is that they never get scrambled from shorts or when someone is zero stretching a DC engine on the layout. I have even replaced very expensive Lenz decoders with a TCS decoder that cost less than half the price. I have a few T series and MC decoders without harness that I have removed from locomotives the last couple years. Been going to sound decoders. Let me know if you are interested. Pete.
Tom and Stix, thank you for your reporting your experiences with TCS decoders!
Henry, oops, I made an erroneous assumption that if EOL there is no warranty. Thank you for notifying me about the warranty!
Hornblower, thanks for reporting your experience with the NCE D13J decoders. Very attractive price!
Pete, thanks again, I provided more commentary for you in the post above this one.
Rick
Rick.
I shot you a quick email. Let me know if you get it.
Your welcome, Rick. TCS is my go-to motor-only decoder. I have a number of switchers - steam & diesel - in my NYC roster so low-speed is VERY important to me.