MT FT units, decoder install

[propmeup1]

Ok here's a good one. I have a set of MT Reading FT units. Like the real ones they a draw bared together vs a coupler.  I'd like to install a sound decoder but is it possible to install just one decoder and run both engines from it or would there be a power issue with the decoder. Like too much draw or not enough power from one decoder. I only need one headlight as well.

Thank you, KTB

[peteski]

Yes, I have seen instances of permanently coupled engine's have their motor connected to a single decoder. I have not tried that myself.

Another alternative would be to install a sound decoder in one unit, and a non-sound decoder in the other unit.  Non-sound decoders are not very expensive and if both are from the same manufacturer they will work well together without having to do much tweaking.

[propmeup1]

Good idea. i'll call George tomorrow and see what he recommends before I toast a decoder with too much draw or something.    While at the Greenberg shaow last Saturday I commissioned Pete Lerro to do a painting for me.  I'll post it when done next year. 

[jdcolombo]

You likely would have better results doing a two-decoder install.  Sound in one, non-sound in the other.  Two decoders gives you the ability to precisely match the speed characteristics of both engines, which are likely to be slightly different, even though the drivetrain/motor is the same.  Install two decoders, speed match them, and then set both decoders to the same DCC address. 

Done.

John C.

[propmeup1]

I spoke to George today at ST and he said it would be better to use two decoders and one no sound as you said. I have the EMD decoder that has duel sound for the DD40X even though they had the FTs had the 567 diesel vs the 645 in the DD40X I don't know how much difference there is in sound without hearing them side by side. I'm sure some of you guys would know.  I think I'll install the sound in one and get a second decoder.

As usual many thanks goes out.  Someone is always happy to help.

KTB

[propmeup1]

Hello Train People, I want to thank all who threw in their two cents for the good advice for my MT FT units.  I went with my usual Soundtraxx TSU-1100 in the A unit and a none sound in the B unit. I had to mill out a lot of the A units frame on the top for the speaker and decoder plus mill the inside roof of the shell praying not to blow through it .  I ran wires back to the B unit to house the keep alive cap.     I programed the decoder for duel 567 diesels and with the speaker all the way aft it pretty much shares it's sound with both units.    The unknowing will have no clue.   Upon firing them off they sound great. The MT locos make very little motor and gear noise and with twin 567's going they sound great.  I'm very pleased with these and I been pulling 55 empty hoppers around my duel 116' mainline and up the 1.34% grades with ease.

Thank you,
Keith