Life-Like Walthers RS-2 Decoder Install?

[sandypsj]

Hi all,

I'm looking for some clarification from folks with experience installing a decoder in an N Scale Life-Like/Walthers RS-2. I've seen conflicting information online.
@spookshow Mark's website says the following:

Unfortunately, unlike the Kato this is not a simple plug-and-play install. The motor brushcaps and contact strips are not isolated from the chassis, so you need to disassemble the entire locomotive in order to apply insulating tape in these areas. The motor contacts on the decoder also touch the chassis, so you'll need to apply tape on the top of the chassis as well. So, no, not the easiest decoder install in the world.

On the other hand, TCS' website shows a pretty straightforward drop-in install (https://drupal.tcsdcc.com/installation/n-scale/1670) as does Digitrax's (https://www.digitrax.com/tsd/KB400/life-like-n-scale-rs2-modifications-needed-for-the/).

I know this topic has been discussed here before, but I can't find great clarity. Would appreciate any guidance anyone can give! TIA.

[spookshow]

If you look at the Digitrax install, they show exactly what I'm talking about. Namely, that you need to use pieces of kapton tape to insulate all the things that shouldn't be touching. Not super difficult, but not a simple drop-in install either.

-Mark