Bachmann Online Forum

Discussion Boards => N => Topic started by: akg2026 on January 19, 2026, 03:09:02 PM

Title: New member: Looking for DCC Decoder advice for N Scale GP38-2 (BNSF #2273)
Post by: akg2026 on January 19, 2026, 03:09:02 PM
Hi everyone,

I'm a new member here and also brand new to the world of DCC. My son and I recently started our model railroading journey, and I just purchased a Bachmann N Scale GP38-2 Diesel Locomotive (BNSF #2273, Item #61751).

The product page (https://shop.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=9126) mentions that it is "DCC Ready" and includes a "Factory-installed NMRA NEXT-18 socket."

Being a beginner, I'm a bit overwhelmed by the decoder options. I tried using the Digitrax online selector, but I couldn't find this specific locomotive listed.

Does anyone have experience with this specific model? Are there specific Digitrax or NCE models that work well with this frame?

I've seen the Digitrax DN167N18 or the ESU LokPilot 5 Micro (59828) mentioned online—would these be a good fit for this locomotive?

Any help or guidance you could provide for newcomers would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance,