I am bashing a 44 tonner into a critter of sorts - What I would like to know, is where can I get a replacement DCC board or is there a prescribed decoder available. I am aware that a regular decoder could be wired in.
Just curious - Geezer ???
Either the Digitrax DZ123 or DZ125 for hard wiring, both are good choices. DZ125 is a tad smaller.
I have the new DCC equipped version on order. I'm looking forward to making a critter also. No "goat" is safe from my Zona saw. :D
The 44 ton DCC version does not come with an 8 pin connector. You have to remove the clips on the light board and solder in the decoder. Also, make sure you remove the two capacitors. Some people also remove the inductors and solder in a piece of wire. I have never done that as the inductors are out of the circuit you might say since they need capacitors to work with. Your mileage may vary.
Here is an inside link. I labeled the caps and inductors if you want to replace the inductors. It could give you slightly more head room. The two clips to remove are behind the inductors.
(http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l267/richg1998/Spectrum44tonlightboard.jpg)
Rich
I just read an article at Tonys Trains, the author says they should have called it "DCC Not-so-Ready". Guess he didn't know about the capacitor issue. :D
Some more pictures from TCS
Before
http://www.tcsdcc.com/decoderpics/Bachman%20GE%2044%20Ton%20Diesel%20Switcher/Bachman%20GE%2044%20ton%20-1.htm
After
http://www.tcsdcc.com/decoderpics/Bachman%20GE%2044%20Ton%20Diesel%20Switcher/Bachman%20GE%2044%20Ton%20-2.htm
Here is how you can search the archives for possible information.
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php?action=search2
Rich