Tim--

Unfortunately, the size of the decorder and its connection limit the decorder to the shell space behind the cab.

Steve

Tim--

Thank you for your response.  To clarify.  The shell, decorder, and fixed circuit board were hot to the touch, just after 20 to 25 of running.  I must admit, I was concerned the shell would have melted had I ran the loco longer.

Steve

Hello everyone--

I just installed a NCE D13SRJ decorder in an HO Athearn Dash 9, which has DCC plug in play capability.  I am using Bachmann's EZ Command.   I affixed electrical tape on the bottom of the decoder (circuit board), thus insulating it from the Motor/brushes, etc.  (Just as stated in the operating instructions.)  The loco ran well under both DC (using a MRC 1300) and DCC (Bachmann's EZ Command).  I noticed however after running the engine for about 20-25 minutes, the shell, which I placed snuggly on the chassis, was hot to the touch.  I also notice after removing the shell, the decorder and the "permanent  board" under the decorder (the board that the decorder plugs into) was also very hot.  I left the decorder "free" to float. 

It was recommended I try another exact decorder and see what happens.  I will do that tonight.  But, in between time, any help would be helpful.  I am new to DCC and this is my first decorder installation, so I could have done something incorrectly. 

Sincerely,

Steve

Hello Everyone--

I just received my HO Shay.  It ran well (after breaking it in), but the front light seems rather dim to me.  The back light is a little brighter when the unit goes backwards.  I ran it on DC.  I spoke to a representative at Trainworld where I bought it and he told me that is the case with Shays in general.  Three questions:  (1) what has been your experience with the shay's front light?  (2) Besides adding a decorder to it, how can I make it brighter?  (3) Or should I exchange it for another one?

Any input will be appreciated,

Steve