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Model Railroading > Aggravating Decoder InstallDate: 12/02/21 12:18 Aggravating Decoder Install Author: Nscaler Hi all.
I recently installed Digitrax DN163K0A decoders into an A/B pair of Kato E8/9's. The B unit runs flawlessly but that little grey clip in the A unit that's supposed to hold the decoder board against the motor tabs just won't stay put. It doesn't actually pop out, just doesn't stay tight enough to maintain a solid contact with them. The model runs for a few minutes then just stops. If I barely tap the clip (and I mean barely), power to the motor is restored. Tried spreading the locking clips on the bottom of it a bit which worked...for about five minutes. No question is a dumb question (or so I've read here) sooo..would soldering the motor tabs to the decoder contacts be the best solution? Thanks in advance! Date: 12/02/21 12:38 Re: Aggravating Decoder Install Author: ATSF_Cliff Soldering the motor contacts to the decoder is an excellent idea. Making that 'sure' connection is always preferable to 'Gee, I hope these stay in contact.'
Remember fine, clean tip, dab of flux and quick in and out with the iron. Cliff Rutherford Grain Valley, MO Date: 12/02/21 12:42 Re: Aggravating Decoder Install Author: Nscaler Thanks Cliff. That's what I figured.
Date: 12/02/21 12:42 Re: Aggravating Decoder Install Author: PHall A good soldered connection is ALWAYS better then a friction connection. ALWAYS!
Date: 12/02/21 17:45 Re: Aggravating Decoder Install Author: northridgeswitcher I am an N Scaler too and a big Kato locomotive fan.
In a number of cases I have had one locomotive that will light but no motor. Turns out to be the same issue you are having. I agree with the other posters. Soldering fixes the issue every-time. I use a low wattage battery soldering iron and very thin solder and make the connection in the shortest amount of time, making sure the connection is a bright silver once cooled. Take care, be safe. Northridge Switcher Date: 12/02/21 17:47 Re: Aggravating Decoder Install Author: PHall northridgeswitcher Wrote:
------------------------------------------------------- > I am an N Scaler too and a big Kato locomotive > fan. > > In a number of cases I have had one locomotive > that will light but no motor. Turns out to be > the same issue you are having. > > I agree with the other posters. Soldering fixes > the issue every-time. I use a low wattage > battery soldering iron and very thin solder and > make the connection in the shortest amount of > time, making sure the connection is a bright > silver once cooled. > > Take care, be safe. > > Northridge Switcher Yep, a dull silver connection is a sure sign of a "cold solder joint". Can usually be fixed with another application of the soldering iron. |