Tomix vs Kato decoder installs

[Bernard]

Has anyone else run across this problem that I've been having with installing decoders in the Tomix trains. I find the Kato trains to be easy to install and virtually trouble free whereas I have yet to have a Tomix go easy and I've done it with 4 trains now.
Here are some photos of a Kato 500 Shinkansen and a Tomix E1 MAX Shinkansen.
So has anyone else had this problem with Tomix?

[Mike Sheridan]

OK, I give up. What is "this problem"?

[Bernard]

Originally Posted by Mike Sheridan

OK, I give up. What is "this problem"?

Here's what happens, after you install a decoder in a Tomix train, it will run alright for a while then it starts to stall. I've re-installed the decoders numerous times with the same result. I checked and double checked the soldering points. One thing, Tomix motor configurations vary from train to train whereas the Kato passenger trains are consistent. And as I've said, I've had this problem with 4 different Tomix trains to the point I won't purchase any more of them because of this problem. I'm curious if other members who run Tomix have had problems installing a decoder.

[julesmazur]

Originally Posted by Bernard

Has anyone else run across this problem that I've been having with installing decoders in the Tomix trains. I find the Kato trains to be easy to install and virtually trouble free whereas I have yet to have a Tomix go easy and I've done it with 4 trains now.
Here are some photos of a Kato 500 Shinkansen and a Tomix E1 MAX Shinkansen.
So has anyone else had this problem with Tomix?

Say, what decoder do you use in the Kato 500 series Shinkansen? I can't find it anywhere...

[Bernard]

First off, welcome to TB.
I used a Lenz decoder in the 500 Nozomi Shinkansen but that decoder (I can't remember the model number off hand) has been discontinued. Right now I'm using the Digitrax DZ 125. You will have to solder in that decoder. I know that Kato makes their own decoder (through Digitrax) called the EM13. To install it, you slip into the motor car, but I've never tried it and I've heard mixed reviews on it.
If you are running Bullet trains, and you want to control the head & tail ligthts, you will need 2 more decoders. I will PM with more info.
Best of luck.

[julesmazur]

Thanks! The Shinkansen I have was just DC... until now!