How do I hard wire Hornby DCC decoders into a locomotive?

A lot of people ask us how to hard wire a DCC or TTS Sound decoder into a locomotive.  It could be that the locomotive pre-dates the ‘DCC ready’ plug and socket system, or that it was never fitted.  This can be quite common with 0-4-0 and 0-6-0 type trains.

Before you start, remember this guide is for Hornby DCC decoders including the R8249, and TTS Sound range.  So if you’re using a different manufacturers chip – please contact them for help first.

Step-by-step guide & wiring diagram

A simple wiring diagram has been provided by Hornby to help you make the connections in your locomotive.  It’s important to remember that you should take your time in doing this to avoid damage to the locomotive electrics, body and chassis.

We’ve also provided a brief step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Remove the plug from the decoder chip.
2. Locate the wires from the pick ups and remove from motor using a soldering iron.
3. Solder the Black & Red wires from chip, one to each pick up wire.
4. Solder the Grey & Orange wires to the motor contacts.
5. Locate a suitable decoder position.
6. Make sure all excess wires are bundled up so not to interfere with wheels, gears & valve gears.
7. Test and programme loco to unit.

Troubleshooting

Quite often people experience issues running their train once they have fitted a DCC decoder.  Ensure you refer to the configuration information provided with both the decoder and your controller to get them talking to each other, and always use a section of ‘programming’ track.

Remember also that the DCC element may be more sensitive to dirty track and poor connections than when it was DC powered.  Ensure that the tracks, wheels and pickup points on your locomotive are as clean as possible.