GE 44 Ton

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What specific Tsunami 2 Soundtraxx decoder is installed in the 44 tonner? It would be helpful to update the QuickStart instructions to facilitate choice in JMRI Decoder Pro.  Can the installed decoder be readily replaced by a Blunami?  I'm hoping it is a 22 pin NEM connector.  Thanks!  Great engine.  Already added auto bell and horn signals via Decoder Pro although CV's 31 and 32 are not visible for confirmation of CV values.

[Yard Master]

Hi Kennedy,

The decoder in the 44-Ton locomotive uses the NEXT-18 connector.

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How can a stay-alive be added to the Next-18 decoder?
thx

[trainman203]

By a professional

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How and where does a stay alive or current keeper connect to the motherboard to which the Next18 sound decoder plugs into.  A picture or diagram illustrating +v and ground connection points would facilitate addition of a device to keep the little wonder moving through faulty but irreparable trackage overcome by other similar small locos which are power-preservation-equiped.  A complete "how to" description (suitable for non-professionals, Trainman203) from shell removal through soldering connections and including any fixable stay alive recommendations as well as useful programming tips would be appreciated. thx

[jward]

No disrespect to anybody at Bachmann intended. But have you tried the SOundtraxx website? Or other decoder manufacturers like TCS that sell seperate keep alives? I know for a fact TCS has an incredible collection of tutorials for adding DCC to various locomotives, and most can provide insight into installation of decoders other than TCS. And Many of the tutorials listed are for Bachmann products. Also, you can contact SOundtraxx directly about installing a keep alive. I'm sure they get this question all the time and can advise you.

[Yard Master]

The Tsunami2 board in the locomotive does have a plug on the board for installation of a Soundtraxx CurrentKeeper capacitor. There are other available aftermarket solutions as jward mentions above.

[Doughboy]

I was also wondering about installing a Current Keeper.  However, the motherboard (Bachmann H682X-PCB01) that I have does not have the connector for it.  I have installed these in various locomotives in the past but this one has me a bit confused.  I can use a SoundTraxx JST-NEXT-18 Connector to replace the motherboard and connect the Current Keeper to it, but I would really like to retain the original Bachmann motherboard if possible.  I contacted SoundTraxx and they said that Bachmann makes this board and actually did not know, which really surprised me.  Their advice was to contact Bachmann.  Anyone have any advice (other than have a professional do it....LOL)