I have noticed this DMU for sale at Hattons and I was wondering why it was so cheap, it requires 2 decoders and was wondering if this would need running as a consist.

You only need a function decoder for the trailer car if it is un-powered just to operate the lights and as you suggest, run it as a basic consist.

Hi Geoff

I use the cheapo Bachmann 6 pin decoders as function decoders.  No need to run it as a consist - just programme both decoders with the same number.

Cheers, Mike

I run two wires from the normal decoder in the first car back to the blanking pin in car 2 do run the lights, you just need to break the circuit on the blanking chip and I use 2mm wire so it looks like its meant to be there

Thanks folks I do have a couple of spare decoders so I can use them.

I use two decoders, each with their own address
That way when the unit arrives at the terminus the lights are changed independently of each other (just as they would be in real life)
You just have to remember to change the direction at the other end!

I put them on the same address on mine but set one of then so the lights are on function 1 and the other on function 0. That way its easier to control with the throttle.

Alan