August 2 2019 Installing a TCS KA2 in a Blackstone Models C-19 2-8-0
Article & Photography by Maxwell Brisben | Installation done by Lou White
This guide will explain how to install a TCS 1456 KA2 KeepAlive into a Blackstone Models HOn3 C-19 2-8-0. The first thing you want to do is to remove the tender shell, which is attached by four screws on the underside of the tender; one in each corner. Below is what the locomotive looks like with the tender shell removed.
We can see the factory installed Soundtraxx Tsunami decoder inside, which is attached with four screws. Unplug the decoder from the locomotive and remove the four screws holding it in place. The KeepAlive is going to be installed underneath.
The photo below shows the decoder removed from the tender and the KeepAlive off to the left with the plastic shrink-wrap removed. Its not essential to remove the shrink-wrap but it does help to ensure a better fit. You will want to wrap the KeepAlive with Kapton Tape to prevent any unnecessary short-circuits.
Using a hobby knife, cut away the plastic tab that is part of the speaker assembly. This is circled in red in the photo below. It is essential to remove this piece in order for the KeepAlive to fit, however it does not impede speaker performance.
Below you can see the plastic tab removed, the KeepAlive placed, and the Soundtraxx decoder re-installed. You can also see where to solder the U+ (blue wire) and the Ground (black/white wire).
There you have it! The KA2 is an active capacitor and requires no programming to function. It should provide enough capacitance for 3-5 seconds of locomotive operations over track with poor electrical pickup.
Products used in this guide:
