Just wondering if there are any particularly in the PRR or Reading road names. I've been looking and I haven't found any. I would prefer plug&play like the newer atlas locos because I don't have much experience soldering. I might be looking in the wrong spots maybe? Just checking the normal sites... eBay... places like that Thanks
Kato has some special order items with DCC included. They are not the usual items found on most e-tailers websites. I think you have to deal directly with Kato in Chicago to order them... NO DISCOUNT... therefore somewhat expensive. Unfortuantely, Kato hasn't done much (as in NONE) in the way of Pennsy or Reading in F units for about 15 years. Perhaps after the GG1 is released... they'll look at satisfying east coasters desires.
Kato's Pennsy F3 release was 1988, F7 was 1992. I don't think either was DCC ready. Intermountain has not done Pennsy F's. There is the Model Power FP7, don't know if it is DCC ready. Choices may be limited to none. Ben
Here is an Kato E8....they are drop-in DCC compatable (Digitrax DN-163K0A) http://cgi.ebay.com/2-KATO-Pennsylv...ryZ19124QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem The F-3's are drop-in compatable, and I would assume the F-7's too, but I'm not sure. You may have to do a custom repaint. Shouldn't be too hard is you have a spray gun.
So that set is drop in like the newer atlas? Sorry I'm somewhat new at this and want to make sure I have the right idea in my head
I'm not sure....but here is a link to the Digitrax page with decoders for the E8... http://www.digitrax.com/prd_mobdec_dn163k0a.php You might want to send the seller a message and ask him if these engines accept the digitrax drop-in decoder. As far as the F units, recent F3 units are drop-in compatable. Here is Kato's site that specifically mentions the DCC compatability... http://www.katousa.com/N/F3/index.html Be aware that there is a HUGE difference from DCC compatable and being DCC drop-in compatable.
Thanks! I do understand the difference between compatible and drop in compatible. I wouldn't mind finding one that is compatible and maybe having someone install it for me for a price. I don't really feel comfortable soldering and engine that costs so much and is so small lol
Installing the Digitrax DN163K0A in Kato E8's requires no soldering. Insulation using Kapton tape is fully explained in the instructions and the tape is usually supplied wrapped around the decoder for shipping. If not, it is obtainable from most dealers. My first installation was in a Kato E8 and was easy. Ben
The Model Power FP7 unit has DCC "friendly" wiring; desolder their connections and rewire for DCC. I used styrene to build a platform for an M1 decoder over the rear worm gear. It worked out okay. By the way, its a metal shell.
The IM F units just require unsoldering the headlight leads from the original board and soldering them to the DCC board. I prefer installing them to the Atlas so called plug and play where, while easy, you need to partly separate the frame halves, any install that doesn't involve tampering with the mechanism scores points with me. If you don't mind not having headlights you could leave them unconnected until you gain the confidence to do it, or find someone to assist with the soldering. The B units of course, having no lights just need the new board screwed in place.
