I was recently told , by a junior railroader, that adding a decoder with sound would compromise the pulling power in my Bachmann Spectrum 4-8-2. Is this true?
Thanks.

Thanks
I will check out the tsunami unit.I have done quite a bit of electronics work in my day.
Thank you for the step by step as well . It is most appreciated.

My 4-8-2 heavy mtn. has a RF&P tender. This is the first time I will be adding a decoder and sound unit. The locomotive is dcc ready , now what....
Regarding the headlight burnout.  I will not send it in for repair if it is just going to burnout again quickly. That's a bit of a drag! Glad to know I got a highly rated locomotive though.It looks great pulling my 50' circus cars.
thanks for all your knowledge.

I just got a new 4-8-2. I runs really nice. The headlight worked the first time I put it on the track but now after a short time running it doesn't light up. The glowing box inside the cab lights, but not the headlight. I un plugged and re plugged the harness but no luck. Please advise. thank you all.
Also, I want to install a decoder and sound unit. If anyone has an opinion of the best unit for my 4-8-2 heavy mtn. I would appreciate it.
thanks

I was wondering if anyone knew the history of the symbol for the RF&P. I saw a circle with a triangle in the middle. Thanks.

Hi Nigel,
No, I'm talking ho. Thanks to everyone with the info. I'm new to the hobby.
Jeff

I have built the "up-and-over in 4X6" layout from the Atlas book # 9. Will the Bachmann Spectrum 4-8-2 be able to negotiate the turns on this size layout. I am considering buying one to pull the 50' circus cars I have just bought. thanks