Decoder for a SP/SSW SW1500 locomotive

[SP7201]

I am purchasing SW1500 in both SP and SSW locomotives. I could use any advice on what decoders to use for the units since they have the famous SP light packages?

 

[Rico]

I don’t know if the scale is an issue (HO?) or manufacturer of your loco but I’d guess a decoder with extra functions?
Someone in the know will be by shortly I’m sure.

 

[bnsf971]

Both ESU and Zimo offer decoders with a lot of outputs.

 

[SP7201]

the units in question are Athearn HO scale and so I don't know what type to use

 

[Canalligator]

I have the older blue box with early can motor, and only room for a single flywheel. Is this what you have?

I had a hell of a time fitting decoders into this locomotive. The only available space is in the cab or just below it. And it draws a full 1 ampere at stall. I gave up trying to fit a sound decoder and keep alive in it. Then I burned out a mobile decoder rated just 1A. I finally had success with a TCS T4X, which is rated 1.3A.

I learned a lot, but the whole series of failures was very disheartening. If it wasn’t a custom painted shell for my freelanced road, I would have given up. I eventually got it working. Good luck.

 

[flyboy2610]

For my TR5A project (https://modelrailroadforums.com/forum/index.php?threads/emd-tr5a.35792/) I used a Soundtraxx TSU-PNP8 #885813 board style decoder. They come with different sound profiles available.

TSU-PNP8

SoundTraxx brings new dimensions in digital sound technology to your model railroad. Regardless of your scale or prototype, we have a sound system for you! We manufacture all of our Digital Sound Decoders in the USA, right here in Durango, Colorado.

soundtraxx.com

 

[dennis461]

I used N scale decoders, laying inside over the gearbox.
But N scale did not have extra functions (beyond front and rear headlight).
Maybe a DH187 will fit, it has more functions and wires...

 

[Canalligator]

Flyboy, that decoder will probably not fit.
Dennis, the DH187 is the decoder that I burned out on my blue box.