The German class 103 was introduced in 1970 and was in use as an express locomotive for the fast intercity services. It could run 200 km/h in regular service. The photos show the 103 205-1 in Venlo (Netherlands) in 1996 and the Fleischmann model.

The Fleischmann model was introduced in 1983 and is still a very class Fleischmann model with the typical round motor. It obviously pre-dates DCC and this page is about converting the DC model to DCC.

The model is the 103 155-8, which was built in 1971. It was in service until 2000.

The Fleischmann 4376 model in its box. As this installation was done for a friend, and he supplied the decoder, therefore a Digitrax DH126D decoder will be used.

The shell removed and then we can inspect the locomotive. There is plenty of space for the decoder. The printer circuit board will stay as well, as it can be used with some modifications.

Disassemnbly starts and the motor drive is removed. Then the other truck/bogie. The decoder is shown for size. It will be mounted under the printed circuit board.

Also here a standard Fleischmann round motor and the motor shield needs modifications again. The second photo shows the modifications. With a dremel tool the left brush holder is isolated from the rest of the shield. By default this is connected to the frame and because of this the power pickup.

All the wiring is complete. The decoder is mounted under the board. The existing diocdes on the board are removed and the board can be used for power connections. Two LEDs are placed for the lights and the resistors are visible as well. Next is putting the shell back on and a test drive.