I have spent many years experimenting with DCC decoder installations in my own brass locomotives. These experiences have given me a solid background in solving the puzzles of decoder installations in brass locomotives. My favorite task is getting decoders in small locomotives where others dare not tread. If you have a small locomotive I imagine I can find space for a decoder in it. The mechanically inclined readers out there will be pleased to know that all my installation work is done with a mechanic's eye towards accessibility. Everything I install is accessible in case you need to remove or replace the components as new innovations come along.

DCC decoder in an HO scale E-23 4-4-0 tender with minimal modifications to the tender. The top of the oil bunker covers the decoder when set in place.

Sound and lighting effects are optional. Please be aware that installing sound in some brass will require milling holes. These holes will be the "speaker grill" that lets the sound out. I am very careful when I select where to make the speaker grill. You will not be able to see these holes once the model is placed on the tracks, and I will make them in as neat a fashion as possible.

The HO scale tender shown below is receiving a SoundTraxx Tsunami decoder and a Rail Master self contained speaker. The picture shows the decoder/speaker stack before the installation. The Tsunami is a outstanding sound decoder and features everything a steam fan could ever want. The Rail Master speaker is a neat self contained unit that has an oval speaker and a ported enclosure all in one piece. These parts are typical of the high quality parts I install at BrassMechanics.