Who from Kato told you it needs two decoders installed? http://www.katousa.com/HO/P42/maint/DCC-install.html There is only one per Kato's instructions. Kelley. www.dufordmodelworks.com
Well, this is embarrassing. I forgot I owned the Kato P42. I picked it up for the Cascades consist because it has functional marker lights for reverse. Outside of the GPS dome and under frame parts, my opinion stands that the last run of Athearn's shell has better detail. As for a runner its alright. on a 2% grade with the Talgo consist and a dummy cab on the other end it sometimes slips when it runs in push mode, but it's okay in pull. The Athearns run the same in either direction and aren't as prone to coupler slipping. It runs better when I use a powered F40PH.
