Installing DCC decoder in a 1998 N Spectrum Doodlebug

[BB1]

I have a Spectrum N scale Doodlebug.  I want to install a Digitrax DZ126.  Any instructions or tips?  Video or pictures would be nice.

[Fred Klein]

BB1, if you go to the Bachmann Parts/Support section, in the N scale section and look under Gas Mechanical, you will find a document for the the Doodlebug called the Locomotive Chassis or something similar. On that drawing in the lower left corner you will see that that PCB (Printed Circuit Board) contains an 8-pin jack that is currently jumpered for DC operation. Remove the jumpers (perhaps take a picture for future reference) and insert the plug from the Digitrax decoder and you should be all set. If you go to Digitrax's website and use their decoder selector, they will show you which decoders will fit your application.

Here's a link to the document:
https://shop.bachmanntrains.com/documents/N_Doodlebug.chassis.pdf

Hope this helps.

[BB1]

Thanks Fred Klein for your detailed and quick reply.  I will check it out for sure.  I should have added in my original post that my Gas Mechanical is a Spectrum circa 1998.  I don't think the current board has the 8-pin you mentioned.  I think I'll be hard wiring an 8 wire decoder.  My main concern is isolating the pick up's, left picks up from isolated left truck wipers and right from entire metal frame. 
Bob

[Fred Klein]

BB1, if your PCB has jumpers as shown in the picture, then you have the 8-pin jack. BTW, I have a 1995 vintage HO Doodlebug and it has the 8-pin jack, FWIW.  If not, the wires are usually connected to the edge of the PCB via little clips. In that case, you will have to solder. As long as there are at least 7 wires connected to the PCB the motor should be electrically isolated. Best of luck. Fred