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Discussion Boards => General Discussion => Topic started by: mgibbons on July 15, 2026, 04:56:31 PM

Title: 51504 decoder install
Post by: mgibbons on July 15, 2026, 04:56:31 PM
Just bought a 51504 and want to add a DCC decoder with sound to it. Does it come with a connector already installed or is it a complete wire job. Just want to order the proper decoder for when the loco arrives.

Thank you,
MG
Title: Re: 51504 decoder install
Post by: Len on July 15, 2026, 11:02:53 PM
From the product description in the 'On-line Store':

Electrically isolated motor to allow hardwiring of DCC decoder
https://shop.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1865

Keep in mind the function outputs of a decoder cannot handle the current draw of the smoke unit. So it will still have to be wired directly to track power if you keep it installed.  If you remove the smoke unit, the space it was in will hold a small decoder marketed for Z-scale quite nicely.  As long as it is rated for at least 1 amp it will work just for in an HO loco.

Len
Title: Re: 51504 decoder install
Post by: mgibbons on July 16, 2026, 01:34:18 PM
Thank you Len!