Installing a Digitrax DNZ123
in a Life Like GP60

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December 2004

The new Life Like GP60 is really a great model but did not come with a provision to install a DCC decoder. To
get DCC into this model we will use the Aztec Mfg TM3031 Trackmaster frame and a Digitrax DZ123 decoder. A Train
Control System M1 would also work very well in this application. Start by completely disassembling the engine and
marking the top of the motor. I always recommend testing a new decoder before cutting any of the wires so do that
now if you have not already. Then cut the wires to the lengths listed below.
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2 - 1/8" - Red, Black,  & White wires
1 - 3/4" - Gray wire
1 - 1/8" - Orange & Yellow wires
 
In this example I did not use the Blue wire.
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The drawing above shows the modifications that need to be made on the rear PC board.  Use a needle file to create a
rounded notch between the tabs that plug into the frame. This will be for the wires. On this board cut the circuit trace between
the LED and the tab that will be on the left side of the engine. Connect the yellow wire to the LED there. The photo shows the board
with the yellow wire connected. Re-install the board component side up.
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The drawing above shows the modifications that need to be made on the front PC board.  Cut the circuit trace between the
resistor and the tab that plugs into the frame. Remove the LED and re-install it on the opposite side of the board from the resistor.
Connect the red, black, and white wires as shown in the photo. This board will be installed component side up.
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GP60DCC3.jpg (60605 bytes) 
GP60DCC2.jpg (49876 bytes)
Remove the motor brushes from the motor and solder the orange and gray wires to the motor brush caps. On this model the
motor is tight against the frame where on other models we have been able to squeeze the lower motor wire into. To get the gray
wire down to the lower part of the motor use a needle file again to notch a groove into the side of the motor housing as shown in
the photo. I did this on the right side of the motor but it could be done on either side. Be careful not to get any debris inside the motor.
GP60DCC5.jpg (30312 bytes)
After you have re-assembled the engine
this is what you will have. The DZ123 is
actually a few mils wider than the shell
inside width so the fit might seem a little
tight. If you are using an TCS M1 decoder
the fit will be easy. The fact that the frame
has an undercut that the decoder fits into
makes it secure and you will not need any
tape to hold it in place. This model has
nice locking bumps on the frame like some
of the Kato models to align the shell.