Decoder Install Question

I have an N Scale Kato SD40-2 Snoot which I was told was DCC ready. Wrong! The lightboard has clips soldered to the top pads not simply clipped as in newer Kato locos.
Can I solder a wire to each pad on the decoder and then solder that wire to the motor clip that extends up? Do I need to add Kapton someplace? I have never attempted a hard wire and do not want to start but this loco needs to be in service and not sitting on the shelf.
Doc

 

I am not sure what you mean by clips on the light board but if it is a older Kato with 2 light boards, one in each end, you will need to put a wired decoder in it and you will have to mill the frame or get a milled frame from someplace like Aztec. If it is a 1 piece light board I think you can get a plug and play decoder. DN163IO I think. Do you have a photo?

 

I have the plug and play decoder which I was told would swap out. The loco has a one piece light board. On the newer Kato's I have installed decoders in the brass clips come up the side of the motor and clip over the lightboard pads. To install the decorder you simply pry back the clips and slide the lightboard out. On this SD40-2 Snoot the clips are there but they are soldered to the lightboard. They are not connected to the motor leads as in the newer locos. There are brass leads on each side that extend up which the clips fit over, making contact to supply power to the board.
I can take a picture, but since I have never posted a picture on Train Board I don't know what to do.
Doc

 

Please disregard my inquiry. I happened to look at the decoder again and discovered that it is not the DN163K1B I ordered, but a different decoder for another loco, not even Kato. I know, I should have looked at the package more closely, but have purchased several decoders from the same dealer and never gotten a wrong one. Just a simple mistake and can be fixed with a phone call.
No wonder no one could understand my post.
Doc

 

Doc:

The proper decoder will easily fit in that loco.

If I did that it would be called a "Senior moment".

Have fun...

Stay cool and run steam....