Johnathan,

Thanks for the tip on the balancing.  I will check that out.

I do carry the decoder/control/sound to an extreme.  But I enjoy that part, and it fits what I have experience with.  So many areas to explore and options with this hobby.

Mike

Len,

Thanks.  Interesting on the B+/-.  I was trying to invent things it could be, that was not one I came up with.

Johnathan,

Understand on the 8 or 9 pin decoder.  I just like to do it a different way.  Keep a bit of a standard method to the madness of collecting locos, and doing the installs myself.  Good that we have options.

And yes it does have the Rear Light.  That pair is wired directly to the mother board in the Tender.

I going to use a NixTrainz Decoder Buddy and a TSU2 21PNEM decoder.  I have a low end 3D printer so I can make up some mounting feet for the new motherboard without to much trouble.  Looking forward to adding the 4501 to the 630 I have, both of which are at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga, TN.  Either in service or rebuild.  The Southern (ex Army) 610 is also there.  I was lucky enough to get a cab ride in the 610 years ago.  That was an experience for sure.

Stay safe all,
Mike

I recently purchased a USRA Light Southern 4501 DCC ready loco (54403) and will be installing a Soundtraxx TSU2 decoder.  I wanted to make sure I understand the wiring at the existing circuit board.  Especially the B+ and B- connections which I can guess what it might be, and then be wrong.  So here is what I assume about the wiring from the Engine to the Tender.

R = Right Rail
M+ = Motor
L- = Headlight Common
B+ = ??
L+ = Headlight Positive
B- = ??
M- = Motor
L = Left Rail

I would appreciate any corrections and filling in the blanks nad the B+/B-.  Thanks, Mike