Bachmann OO DMU Class 158 with PluX Interface

Kit: MX645PluX22; 2x IceCube18X13X09-1W speakers; 17000uF SuperCap

Smart GWR livery from Bachmann in this Plux22 Class 158 DMU. With many lighting features, the PluX22 makes much more sense that the 21pin MTC, of which there are too many non-standard implementations - PluX22 is properly defined so behaviour should always be consistent - it may not be familar to many UK models, but well done Bachmann taking the plunge!

Neatly designed engine assembly unclips from the base giving easy access to the PluX22 DCC socket. Simply remove the blanking board and put the MX645PluX22 sound decoder in instead. The model already has a single SugarCube speaker on board, so if loud volume is not a requirement for you then the job is already done!

A plethora of lighting features are possible in this model, and some reconfiguration is required on the decoder to make the best of it. Ask us before ordering and we can provide a special version of our 158 sounds with this configuration already done.

If the single SugarCube speaker is just not loud enough, it is relatively simple to swap this for an IceCube 18x13x9 1W, and there is already wiring in place in the dummy coach for a 2nd similar speaker. While we're at it, we'll also include a 17000uF SuperCap for stay-alive too!

We start by wiring through the wires for the SuperCap, which is mounted on its' side in a hidden cubicle...

A little notch is filed into the plastic end to feed the capacitor's wires.

The first IceCube is soldered to the contact pads and secured in position with a bit of BlackTack.

Speaker and SuperCap fit in very neatly as a block at the end of the motor car...

We could have soldered the capacitor's wires directly to the decoder, but instead we decided it would be neater to solder to the feet of the appropriate pins on the PCB - this is probably beyond most people's skills, but it shows how it could be done.

Internals back in place, and a little summary photo of the kit that we put in...

In the dummy coach, similar contact pads are available for the 2nd speker, but this is a lot easier as there is more room to play with.

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.