Installing a New Decoder in a Bachmann GE 70 Ton Locomotive

[Greg@mnrr]

I have two Bachmann GE 70 ton locomotives and I want to replace the original DCC boards with Digitrax DZ123 decoders. Their small size lends them to an install in the Bachmann locomotives.

Looking at the motor(s) on the Bachmann locomotives it appears that there are three capacitors linked to the motor. Should these capacitors be removed?

I plan on replacing the factory LED's with Day-Glow LED's and use 1000 ohm resistors

Has anyone on the Forum replaced the factory boards and do you have any tips on the process?

Thanks everyone.....

Greg

 

[bnsf971]

Yes, remove the capacitor. They are RF choke capacitors that are installed to comply with some European regulations, and do nothing for users in the US but cause problems.

 

[NCRC5315]

Just a suggestion, might want to try a Decoder Buddy, I find they really help to keep a clean/easy installation.