May 11, 2006

Other uses for Soundtraxx Bachmann 2-8-0 decoder (820010)

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Submitted by Gene Moser

I've found it easy to install the Soundtraxx 280 sound decoder meant for the Spectrum 2-8-0 into the Life-Like C&O 2-8-4.  I suspect using the same technique will work for the other Life-Like 2-8-4, and probably the 2-8-8-2 and other steam locomotives with large tenders.

1. Acquire a wiring harness with a female 8 prong and a male 8 prong.  Tony's will make one for a reasonable fee.  It should be between 2 and 4 inches long.
2. Open the tender and remove the plug from board fastened to the tender floor.  Remove the board and put electrical tape over the pins and the floor.  Place tape on the metal portion of the plug.
3. Attach the harness to the plug and the decoder/speaker.
4. Drill holes in the coal load to allow the sound to escape.
5. Fasten the decoder/speaker board to the top of the tender shell with the speaker under the coal load.
6. Verify that the decoder works and secure the tender shell to the tender floor.
7. Program.
8. Enjoy.