Example 1: Bachmann Next18 Class 03 Diesel - simple sound

Kit: MX658 or MS580/581; YouChoos SugarCube10

Easy install into the Next18 Class 03 diesel from Bachmann - the MX658N18 (or its' successor, the MS580) simply plugs in, and we've removed the factory-supplied speaker mount (designed for a 15x11mm StickyGasket speaker) and put a better SugarCube10 speaker in instead.

Example 2: Adding Stay-Alive to the Next18 Model

Kit: MX658 or MS580/581; SugarCube9; LifeLink with 3x 470uF Flat Tantalums

Starting at essentially the same point as Example 1 above, the Class 03 model with Next18 interface does provide suitable connection points for stay-alive, so it is just a case of working out what stay-alive will fit in, and where...

The PCB provides +VE and GROUND solder pads which we connect blue and grey wires to. These are marked as "V+" and "V-"...

Our LifeLink connection PCB is joined in, and 3 flat 470uF Tantalums are hooked in too.

Protect both parts with Kapton tape. The Tantalums slide in underneath the motor, and there is a convenient home for the LifeLink just under the top lighting PCB. Secure this with a blob of BlackTack.

Example 3: STACO3A for stay-alive

Kit: MS580/581/MS590/MX658/MX659, STACO3A

This example shows a STACO3A stay-alive kit used insead - connections from the model's PCB are the same, but we go via the STACO PCB to a pair of mini GoldCaps. The GoldCaps are connected in series, but separately via wires, as one GoldCap will sit each side of the base of the motor - perfect fit!

This approach gives a few seconds of backup power, though charging up fully takes a few seconds too.

Example 4: MS sound with silly stay-alive

Kit: MS581; LifeLink + MGOLANG

Ok, so yes, this is totally unnecessary, but for laughs we decide to fit the biggest stay-alive possible in this Next18 Bachmann Class 03...

From the MS581, we use the Ground and Common Positive pads on the decoder to go via a LifeLink PCB to a Zimo MGOLANG GoldCap array - this will give 5-10 seconds of backup time once charged!

The LifeLink and MGOLANG are wrapped in Kapton tape.

We have to modify the cab floor to fit this kit, but it will all be below the eye-line of the windows, so not visible from outside.

Please note that these guides are provided as useful resources for you, as-is. YouChoos cannot be held responsible for errors in the information, or for any damage caused to your models or equipment if you choose to follow any of the steps detailed here.