Yoder S-12 locomotives: ???

Mine runs pretty decent, but I think with a better DCC decoder than I happen to be using currently it would run better. My definition of running better is always slow speed switching movement. I never just run trains roundy round, I expect them to perform well at slow speeds. Hope that helps

 

Bob

Bob Thank you-- was hoping to hear a message like this

I have 2 of his locos, the GE 70 ton and a 25 ton switcher. Brian Scace installed the decoder for me and it runs wonderfully at slow speeds. The 25 ton is another animal. It seems to be short enough that it has trouble with turnouts, stalling. Any comments?

 

Rich Yoder in a good guy and will help with any problem you might encounter.

 

 

Dick

I have a converted 44 tonner. It has tmcc and electro couplers however I am now running a split system of 2r and 3 r Don't ask.....

I'm using that same decoder Dave is using, but no sound at present. Since others have mentioned Rich Yoder, I will agree he is exceptional to deal with, and the 44 tonner I bought from him runs like the proverbial swiss watch. My standards for excellence in perfromance may be a little different that others, and I believe my particular S-12 can be coaxed to run better with some additional decoder tweeking.

 

Bob

If you like Baldwins, and have some doubts about the Yoder drive, look into one of the older VO1000s done in brass by Carworks.   These used a style of drive like the Old Weaver single motor diesels.    And at least 3 versions of the carbody were done, including the one with the oval shaped front radiator.   I have one and it runs very well.

Guys,

 

I have one of Rich's S12's that I did as PRSL 6018. It runs as fine as you would ever need in any switching environment. Excellent low speed reliability. I had a Loksound Baldwin decoder installed, unfortunately by an idiot. As long as the engine is in a switching scenario everything is great. Once it is assigned to mainline duty (at CVMRR shows) it runs for a while and then becomes very erratic and then just quits. This is NOT the locomotive, but the decoder (and the installer). Given a chance to rest (cool off) it returs to it's normal reliable self.

Wanted y'all to know about this because if you are going to DCC it, make sure the decoder and the installer are up to the task. Except for this, it is an excellent performing locomotive.

 

Buzz  

@ Dave:

Really nice job on your S12!  Excellent!

 

Andre

@ Dave again:

 

Can't wait to see what you've done with that basket case Alco you purchased from me!

 

Andre

Dave,

 

Just saw your reply. Sorry I'm a little behind the times here.

Your diagnosis is basically the same as mine. I specified a Loksound decoder because of the sound quality for the Baldwin and it is a self contained decoder. The guy who did the install specialized in HO & N but we (the CV club) figured if he can do those scales, "O" would be a snap.... wrong!! I think he used an HO decoder in mine and physically screwed up a few of the other fellows pieces. We're talkin' major brass here so there is some resentment to this day. Most of us know nothing but the basics about DCC and sound, so we figured (wrongly so) this guy could help us. He wasn't cheap either. Well we all learned a valuable lesson, so next time, I'll do it myself. Just wanted to clarify the circumstances.

Thanks.

 

Buzz