Given that there is sufficient space, the small scale soundcard can be installed within diesel locomotives. That space should be available in many two truck diesels. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove some or all of the steel or lead weights. In that case, the traction of the locomotive is unlikely to be affected because a heavy battery is to be inserted in place of those weights.
Small diesel shunters/switchers will probably not have sufficient space and a sound trailer should be used instead.
The example below shows the installation in a British mainline diesel.
Before fixing the major components to the locomotive floor, it is necessary to organise an electrical pickup from the track or from the motor for the soundcard. In this case, the purple and grey wire has been connected to the red wires which link the two trucks and then to the soundcard M1/M2 terminals.
The soundcard, speaker and a 3.6 volt NiMiH cordless phone battery were fixed to the locomotive floor using double sided tape. You may want to paint the battery and other components matt black before installation so that they are not visible through any vents, grills or windows which your locomotive may have.
It is worth experimenting with the position of the speaker, whether it is installed facing up or down and how it is covered. All these factors will change the sound produced and can improve the bass tones. Just place your hand over the speaker when it is running to see how the sound can be changed.
In the example, the battery has been connected directly to the soundcard. In that case, care should be taken to avoid a short circuit during soldering.
Once the soundcard settings have been set for the type of loco then you are ready to go.
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