I'm getting ready to install a digitrax 163AO decoder do I need to put tape under the decoder. I've heard some say you have to so you don't let the smoke out of the decoder. Anyone install one yet?
Hi rich,
My understanding is that the tape is only for insulation between the decoder
and metal parts of the frame or loco. If the decoder is in shrink tubing I would
say the tape is not needed.
If the decoder is completely (!) wrapped in shrink tubing there's no need for additional insulation.
But if there is some bare metal showing (on a wire harness or even a printed circuit board), always add a piece of tape between the decoder and the (metal) frame. This should be true for any loco in any scale.
Rich
Did you have any trouble installing the decoder. I just finished 2 B23-7's with no problem. The GP-38 though is a different story. The same decoder for both locos but ht GP decoders seem to be a little to wide to let the frame meet back up after installation causing the trucks to bind. These are my first decoder installations.