How to convert N Gauge Kato E5 Series Shinkansen Hayabusa to DCC

This guide covers the Kato E5 Series Shinkansen 'Hayabusa' Japanese train models:

• Kato E5 Series Shinkansen 'Hayabusa' Basic 3 Car Set (10-857)
• Kato E5 Series Shinkansen 'Hayabusa' Basic 3 Car Set (10-1969)
• Kato E5 Series Shinkansen 'Hayabusa' 10 Car Set (10-858/10-859)

Step 1 - Motorized Centre Car: Remove Body

Remove the body by unclipping the lugs at each end of the car. Remove the underfloor plastic also.

Step 2 - Fit Decoder

Turn the unit upside down, and slide the Kato EM13 decoder in between the motor contacts as shown.

Step 3 - Refit Body

Clip the underfloor section back on, followed by the body.

Step 4 - End Cars

Turn the end car upside down, and remove the decoder trapdoor.

Slide the FL12 decoder in so it sits between the existing contacts. The side with the two continuous strips goes down, the side with four individual contacts goes up. Note the orientation, with the small black chip towards the back of the unit.

In the other end car, the decoder should be turned 180 degrees compared with this one (i.e the small black chip towards the front of the unit). This will ensure that the red and white lights work at the correct end based on the direction of travel. At all times, the four contacts should be facing up.

Step 5 - Refit Trapdoor

Refit the trapdoor, and the installation is complete.