Thanks again for the info....
We're leaning toward the ESU, I have little experience with DCC trains but have 35 years experience as an electrician and work with programmable controllers daily. Wiring and schematics shouldn't be a problem, these decoders are so small that eyesight might be! :-)

And: yes we have two split gears and are looking for metal or brass replacements for those also.

Does anyone have experience with the ESU Loksound micro?
Does the speaker mount to the decoder or is it mounted separately?
which has a better track record.... Sountraxx TSU 750 or ESU micro?
Info appreciated as we are new at DCC conversions.

thanks for the reply.....
after a little research.... maybe the ESU Loksound micro may be the way to go.
it comes with an 8 pin plug and speaker, don't know if it will all fit in the water tank housing or if the speaker must be placed in the coal bunker

 ???Need some advice on installing a DCC decoder and sound in a 3 truck shay.
Does the TSU 750 work for control and sound? If anyone has experience with this installation .... Advice would be appreciated!

Thanks for the reply, we haven't removed the shell because of warranty issues, but we will try that tomorrow. You are right about the Q.C. in China.

Justin

We are new to HO ...... Just bought a Spectrum 2-10-2 DCC equipped #5212, running on a standard DC track. It's a beginners set up for my two boys. All new track controller and locomotive, the loco was not part of the set, purchased seperatly. Trains runs fine but lights don't work in forward or reverse. Do we need a dcc controller? Any info appreciated.