Mine doesn't move.......it's at the station!!!
You don't need to remove the shell if you just want to install a motor decoder. Pull the cooling radiator off of the rear of the locomotive and the decoder socket is exposed.
The instructions that came with my AC6000 said to remove the couplers and shell to install a decoder, but those instructions are wrong. The available space for a motor decoder is so cramped that only one of the decoders recommended by BLI will fit. I think the TCS decoder is the best option of the three recommended brands.
The BlueLine sound decoder is the clearest and best sound of any I have owned. The Broadway Limited Paragon models use a QSI decoder and the BlueLine uses their own proprietary sound system. The QSI decoder is sound, motor, and lights all in one, and the BlueLine decoder is sound and lights only.
Heres a shot of the chip socket. I had a AC6000 Southern Pacific engine. I weathered it, but I didn't take the cover off.
"Rust, whats not to love?"
Just for the heck of it...
As others have done, I just pulled off the radiator part to install my decoder. I used a Digitrax DH165IP, which was not one of the listed decoders. It is a very good fit for the given space in the loco.
TONY
"If we never take the time, how can we ever have the time." - Merovingian (Matrix Reloaded)
cacole wrote:Your model should not need to be lubricated by you for several years, and be prepared to cause major damage when you do remove the shell if you really think it must be removed for oiling.
So, if I understand you right, these are lubed from the factory?
I should be getting my AC6000 next week some time and it will be my first BLI Diesel. I was also hoping to lube the towers as all 10 or so of my steamers were bone dry when they came. Is this not practical then?
Jonathan
Jonathan, not a bad idea with the luck I have had with BLI / PCM. With a few more problems with my steam engines I could work for PCM / BLI ! There are no tower gears in the AC 6000's. Inside they look like a Athearn or Proto 2000. Motor in the center and fly wheels on both ends.
I have have 3 Blue Line GE AC 6000's and lube has yet to be a problem. If you have to pull the shell, it does not pull straight up! If you need to know I will help but it is a true pain in the caboose! My speakers picked up some metal (in the belly tank) and I had to take one a part. Broke the head light.
Cuda Ken
I hate Rust
Sounds like a nightmare Ken. I've been OK so far with my regular BLIs once they are run in, but the Blue Lines aren't so good. No doubt about that.
Now I'm wondering why I'm getting this Loco. I'll love it when it comes.
Well in spite of my worries mine arrived today and it's a brilliant engine. Get one and at 130 bucks it's a steal.
Compares verywell so far with the Katos and you won't hear that from me often!!!