Athearn GP40 DCC install

Complete DCC install using a NixTrainz Decoder Buddy mini, SoundTraxx Tsunami decoder, TCS KA1 KeepAlive and a Scale Sound Systems Speaker.

[@Cowboy_Steve]

Howdy! These never get old... lol. I have bought a 1/2 dozen or so older locomotives to practice adding DCC to. Some are really old... ha! I'll have to look through your older vids to see about what you do with the motor if it isn't DCC ready. These are so helpful for us newbies. Thanks for sharing 🤠

[@nicksanto882]

Very fine example of a straightforward installation. This should help a lot of people get started with converting or upgrading to current DCC. Thanks for sharing!!!

[@SoloContracting]

Thanks Nick.

[@quarter105]

Hi, personally I wouldn't rely on the frame for one of the pickups. Just add a wire to both sideframes and you made sure that any grease or oxidation on the truck to frame joint won't case a problem in the future. With the engine almost strip to the bones it is just a small step to do.

[@Riogrande6400]

Right off the bat I could see that the motor is not isolated from the frame

[@quarter105]

Just have a good look again. The bottom of the engine has the grey wire and the top uses the clip on the Athearn board. You do have right that the frame isn't isolated. One side is picked up through the frame.

[@RonStanek]

Nice video, your like a modeler surgeon, the way you work. Of course, having the right tools for the job helps. What did you use to mill the frame with? Also, I would like to see the difference between your updated version, versus the complete decoder/sound 8-9 pin version of this model. What is the difference besides not having a keepalive?

[@SoloContracting]

Thanks for watching. I use a Proxxon micro mill for the machine work. With the upgrade, I get better sound, better lighting, and more functions from the decoder if I choose to use them.

[@RonStanek]

@SoloContracting wouldn't it be easier to use the soundtraxx adapter at the end 3:50 of this video and wouldn't that get you there with all the good bells and whistles? kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYrRiGOnbtCaZ68si=YRjPgvLyL0blThi5

[@dizzyd474]

can you do a video on how to convert an ho scale nw2 locomotive?

[@luisvarela9096]

What model and wattage of soldering iron used? Hello Mr Santo . Lou varela

[@SoloContracting]

Weller WESD51 50 watt soldering station