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+--- Thread: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. (/showthread.php?tid=10014)
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RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 05-20-2025
Ok so there really isn't a lot I could do for the lighting since the rear light are trapped in the shell, but I do think what I was able to do came out pretty good.
What do you think let me know in the comments.
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 06-18-2025
So, my gears came in from Northwest Short Line for this Bachmann Spectrum Doodle bug so it's time to get it back in-service and since we are opening it up, we Might as well upgrade these lights to LEDs. This was not a simple as it should have been since I had somehow lost the drive saft and had to rethink my lighting options for the front head light, but I manage to get it done without if getting flying lessons.
Northwest Short Line Doodle Bug Gears
https://nwsl.com
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - andy.chandler71@gmail.com - 06-18-2025
(06-18-2025, 06:01 AM)zzrguy Wrote: So, my gears came in from Northwest Short Line for this Bachmann Spectrum Doodle bug so it's time to get it back in-service and since we are opening it up, we Might as well upgrade these lights to LEDs. This was not a simple as it should have been since I had somehow lost the drive saft and had to rethink my lighting options for the front head light, but I manage to get it done without if getting flying lessons.
Northwest Short Line Doodle Bug Gears
https://nwsl.com
excellent tutorial. thank you
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 06-29-2025
(06-18-2025, 01:59 PM)andy.chandler71@gmail.com Wrote: excellent tutorial. thank you
I'm glad you liked it and I hope it help you out.
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 06-29-2025
So, after numerous failures of the 4 new Digitrax decoders I installed in these Bachmann F unit I pulled the two SDXH167d decoders out and installed these Econami Decoders and I was instantly happy with my chose.
Stay tuned till the end to hear these engine roar.
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 07-13-2025
Here's how I built and installed these Lighting keep a lives in my Cabooses next, I'll be building more to go in a small fleet of Passengers cars.
Stay tuned and hit the notification button for Santa Fe Super Chief build
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 08-10-2025
Here we go and install a decoder buddy mini with an ESU decoder into a customer's Locomotive.
It was a pretty straightforward installation I added LEDs and made a bracket for the cab light.
[
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 12-11-2025
Upgrade your Athearn MP15AC with rich, crystal-clear sound! In this episode of Jack on Tracks, I install a Scale Sound Systems speaker and an ESU LokSound decoder, walking you through the full process—from opening the box to wiring, fitting the 3D-printed speaker, programming the decoder, and testing it on the track. If you’re into model train sound installs, Athearn locomotives, ESU decoders, or Scale Sound Systems upgrades, this video shows exactly what to expect and how it performs.
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 12-30-2025
In this Back Shop episode, I show you just how fast and simple it is to install an ESU 21-pin LokPilot decoder into a Bowser Long Island Railroad RS3. If you’ve ever been unsure about DCC installs—or thought you had to buy the factory-equipped version—this video proves how easy the upgrade really is.
Watch the full step-by-step process, see the locomotive run on the test track, and get tips on future sound upgrades using Scale Sound Systems speakers. Perfect for HO scale modelers, Bowser fans, and anyone learning DCC for the first time.
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 01-08-2026
Get an inside look at the Athearn EMD Model 40 as I unbox it, install a DCC decoder, swap couplers, break it in, and test run it on the track. This tiny switcher packs huge cool-factor, and I walk you through everything from disassembly to JMRI setup. If you love HO scale, DCC installs, and Athearn locomotives, this one’s for you!
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 03-09-2026
In this episode of Jack on Tracks – The Back Shop, I break down a mistake that cost me a Tsunami 2 decoder — and how I fixed it. A factory wire stripped back, shorted the board, and took out the amplifier. I sent it to SoundTraxx for repair, rewired the trucks, cleaned the drivetrain, upgraded the speakers, and got the locomotive back on the rails. Next video I do the Lights.
We also cover:
Tsunami 2 Alco decoder reinstall
Diagnosing factory wire insulation failure
Rewiring trucks and motor leads
Cleaning oxidation from worm gears
Installing Scale Sound speakers
Testing sound, horn, bell, and dynamics
Decoder reset and JMRI setup
If you’re into DCC installs, decoder troubleshooting, or realistic sound upgrades, this one’s for you.
RE: JACK ON TRACKS DECODER INSTALLS. - zzrguy - 03-09-2026
In this video, I finish up a Pennsylvania Railroad diesel locomotive upgrade, including number board lighting, headlight wiring, sound decoder reinstall, and cab detailing. What started as a straightforward install turned into a bit of a nightmare after lost footage, a missing headlight light tube, and some on-the-fly problem solving — but that’s model railroading for you.
I walk through:
Installing LED number boards (603s) using resin
Wiring and looming headlights and number boards
Reinstalling a sound decoder and dual speakers
Adding engineer figures and weathering them with a light wash
Cab detailing and discussion of adding cab lighting
Testing sounds, lighting functions, and throttle response on the test track
Notes on prototype details like PRR horn selection and handrail colors
Even with a lost headlight tube (now on order from Atlas), I get the locomotive mostly buttoned up and running, with sound and lighting fully operational. You’ll hear the engine startup, bell, sanding valve, cab chatter, brakes, and more — all with the shell back on where it really comes alive.
This build includes honest mistakes, real fixes, and practical tips if you’re working with:
DCC sound installs
Small pre-wired LEDs
Cab interiors and figures
Resin vs canopy glue
Tight wiring in HO scale locomotives
If you enjoy model train upgrades, DCC installs, realistic sound, and prototype-inspired detailing, this one’s for you.
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