Thank you for the response. I understand that there are dual mode decoders, but, specifically, are there dual mode sound decoders? Can I just plug in a sound decoder and not a DCC decoder? I was thinking of putting a Tsunami heavy steam into my Rivarossi Big Boy, and if I could do that without having to jump to DCC yet, it'd save me some trouble. Thanks.

I haven't been able to find the answer for this question anywhere. Will sound decoders like the Tsunami work on DC? Or will they only work on DCC? My only sound experience is a BLI Blueline Mike with the DC Master and I want sound, but I don't need DCC just yet. Anyone?

I saw this on youtube. A Bowser kit correct? Very impressive!

I have an urge to do this to a Bachmann Prewar K4, but not the funds.


Are we going to get a video of it running?

The brake van. I watched the episode about the Spiteful Brake van on youtube, and for some reason, I really wanted a brake van. Now if only we could get a Donald/Douglas

Well I put the jumpers in place of the decoder, and she runs just fine on DC. This is alright for now. I'm still looking for a speaker that will fit the vandy tender though.

I might plug in the decoder back into it, and see if maybe it might work again, but like I said, it doesn't matter much as I'm gonna add sound.

Well, i've done all the trouble-shooting, thank you both for the suggestions and the directions on how to proceed. I've come to the conclusion that the decoder has burnt out. It's still in warranty, as I only had the locomotive for about 3 weeks (sent in the card as soon as I received it). But I don't think it really matters, as this gives me an excuse to put in a sound decoder. Thanks again guys 

MJC

One more thing. Since I think I'm going to add sound, which sound decoders fit? I'm only a bit worried since the vanderbuilt tender it came with looks rather small. Any suggestions to plug-n-play sound decoders?

I've got a Spectrum Consolidation with DCC on board. I've used it about 4 or 5 times with my Bachmann EZ DCC command system, until I smelled burning electronics from the tender. I haven't had any troubles with my other DCC equipped locomotives. I suspect a defective decoder. I contacted Bachmann's service center last week, other then asking about what system I was using, I haven't gotten a response. Is this as simple as getting a new decoder and replacing the old one? If so, I might as well do that but I'd like to maybe get some answers answers. I love the locomotive, but it was new and I don't want to shell out for a new decoder if it can be sent in.
Thanks

Thanks for the in put guys. 

For the drawbar problems, my layout at the moment isn't really a layout. Its really just a start to a sectional layout planned in the future. I'm currently working on the servicing terminal (sans roundhouse/turntable, too expensive) so there won't be anything tighter then a #6 turnout. And once it expands, I have nothing shorter then a 26" radius planned anywhere. But I'll definitely have to check that drawbar out, if I do make the purchase.

Thanks for the reminder on the BLI Mikes, I almost forgot about them. I'll look into them, and will consider what to do when the next paycheck comes in  I only have the Connie and a 4000, quite a gap in the roster in terms of power and I'd like a Mike, then maybe an Athearn FEF, to balance it all out. And to fill in the tracks at the service terminal, when finished.

Hey everyone. I'm slowly building up my roster of UP steam, and I've always wanted a Mike (partially because my name is Mike, naturally), and I can't really seem to find what I'm looking for. I don't want to use ebay, as I've had bad luck on there. As I've looked around, it seems my only real option is an IHC Mike. I found one it for $99, in NYC livery, and it's DCC ready. I'm not worried about detailing, as I like to add details myself, and I plan to repaint/re-letter it for UP. And I'm not too worried about the operation, as I've had good sessions with the newer DCC-ready IHC locomotives.

Well, long story short, I just would like to know if the Mike from IHC is USRA light or heavy? If it's light then I'll pull the trigger on it.

Also, I just got in a Connie from Bachmann (in UP livery of course) and I love it. But does anyone know of any details that should be added or removed to make it more like the prototype UP Connie?

Thank you all