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.........--- Lais $12 Two Function Decoder In a N Scale ---

......--- 2nd Generation Atlas RS-1 (1998 China made) ---

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This is a decoder install in the second generation N scale Atlas RS-1 that was China made. I'll put a $12.00 Lais 2 function decoder in the loco.

A somewhat easier install can be undertaken by using a TCS CN decoder that inserts where the light boards normally are. The TCS CN costs more than 3 times what Lais decoder runs or over half again as much as using a Digitrax DZ126T like was used on my 1^st Gen. Atlas RS-1 install. But there is less milling to be done and less wiring needed using the CN.

If you go that route look at this link ( HERE ). It pretty much eliminates any of the milling as the CN boards are reversed in position compared to other installs of the TCS CD. I believe it will require you to change the normal direction of travel when you program the loco depending if you want the cab end to run first or not.

There is going to be a fair amount of cutting/milling of the frame using this decoder but I wouldn't let that put you off as it can be done with tools you might all ready have at hand and it took me less than 45 minutes to do that part of the install.

I bought the loco for $45.00 on Ebay and the decoder was $12.00. So for less than $60.00 plus freight I have a nice running DCC loco.

I'll pretty much let the photos do the talking from this point on.....

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I've also found it is very quick to cut off large pieces of the frame when possible with a jewelers saw that I bought to help in making handlaid turnouts. This is the second saw I bought and about twice the price of the first one but much better as it is easier to get the blade tension right for easy cutting. It is a Megacast German style jewelers saw that I found on Amazon ( HERE ). I highly recommend spending the money on it.

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Next will be milling out some parts of the frames. I have a large mill but don't use it any more to do this part of the install as this is easier and faster and of course a lot cheaper if you don't already have a mill.