Proto 2000 SW9/1200 install ?

[upnick]

Hi Guys,

I've been offered a Proto 2000 SW9/1200 IN U.P. paint and would like to know what do these locos perform like as several videos i've seen they look good especially with sound.

Has anyone done a hardwire decoder install on one and any problems with doing it ? i looked on the TCS site in the installs section and it looks pretty straightforward using an M1.

[MasonJar]

Caveat: Have not done one...!

However, I recall that MR had an article on putting sound in a small switcher like this. Significantly more involved than a simple decoder-only install. IIRC, some of the cab space was used either for the decoder or the speaker.

You might want to see if there's a tutorial and/or experience you can draw on for a sound install before you decide. On the other hand, it's still a great engine even without sound.

Andrew

[upnick]

Hi Andrew,

Thanks for the information the sound isnt a must long as its a smooth quiete runner

[bob_suruncle]

Just a simple decoder install should be very easy even if space is tight as you can almost always find room for a Digitrax DZ125. These are generally nice runners and basically silent. The newer versions with sound installed have the speaker firing downward from the fuel tank which means they sacrifice lots of weight so P2K had to install traction tires to improve pulling power as a result.

[upnick]

Just a simple decoder install should be very easy even if space is tight as you can almost always find room for a Digitrax DZ125. These are generally nice runners and basically silent. The newer versions with sound installed have the speaker firing downward from the fuel tank which means they sacrifice lots of weight so P2K had to install traction tires to improve pulling power as a result.

Hi Bob,

Thanks for the info think it will be a TCS M1 install have a few in stock, i bought the loco for a bargain price of £25.00 post paid in its box mint

[upnick]

Hi Guys,

The loco arrived Thursday and i installed a TCS M1 decoder in last night with new lighting all runs very smoothly as you all told me here .. the handrails towards the front hood are a little out of shape and being made of flexiplastic they dont want to straighten out ..... is there a set of handrails available for the SW9/1200 i can reaplce them with.

Also anyone got a good picture of the MU boxes on the locos as i cant find reference after a search.

[bob_suruncle]

Smokey valley probably does appropriate stanchions for you to replace the works with wire railings. Their stanchions are usually available in brass or plastic.

[upnick]

Hi Bob,

Many thanks for the info i'll take a look on their site