Bachmann Online Forum

Discussion Boards => HO => Topic started by: cgalfa on April 28, 2013, 03:20:57 PM

Title: HO Berkshire 2-8-4 decoder change
Post by: cgalfa on April 28, 2013, 03:20:57 PM
I'm rying to install a TSU-1000 steam.  It's about my 12th install, but first in a Bachman.  The red and black wires are reversed right to left.  Also, the NMRA socket does not check out to the proper colored wires. 

Why are they not up to NMRA Standards? >:(  ???

Do I need to dis-assemble the loco and rewire to standard?

It did run pretty sweet, but I didn't like the added sound decoder or the two decoder set up.

cgalfa
Title: Re: HO Berkshire 2-8-4 decoder change
Post by: jonathan on April 28, 2013, 05:00:27 PM
cg,

My first sound/Tsunami install was in a Berk... mostly because it's one of the easiest installs in model railroading.  I simply soldered an 8-prong plug to the decoder, according to the standard color coding for DCC.  The 28mm (1") speaker was a perfect fit.  Do not disassemble the locomotive, unless you intend to add weight.  Rebalancing the weight, a little more forward, does wonders for this locomotive.

It is a great runner, and runs/sounds great with the TSU-1000.

Please do not pay any attention to the reversed wires in the locomotive.  It does not affect the decoder.  The socket in the tender is marked.  Follow that.

Regards,

Jonathan
Title: Re: HO Berkshire 2-8-4 decoder change
Post by: electrical whiz kid on April 28, 2013, 07:17:59 PM
Good reply, Jonathan; I have seen more people making a mountain out of a molehill with this stuff.
Rich
Title: Re: HO Berkshire 2-8-4 decoder change
Post by: cgalfa on April 29, 2013, 08:51:12 AM
Thanks, Johnathan, I'll give it another try.

cgalfa