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DCC Sound Conversion
Joe wants to hear from anyone who has converted to DCC sound:
“I am looking to convert the 4 Howell Day Red Ball 4-6-0 CNJ Camelbacks to DCC sound. This conversion will include replacing the motor to a NWSL motor. Some advice/help from others would be appreciated please. Many thanks.”
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Hi Joe,
The 4-6-0 tender is not overly large, so suggest you look to install an ESU Loksound decoder. They are quite small in size & should fit comfortably within the tender. Loksound operate 100 ohm speakers so be sure to purchase the right speaker. Sounds within the decoder can be downloaded (can be set up by the trainshop where purchased) to suit your particular loco.
Programming the decoder is straight forward – easily read instruction brochure comes with decoder or you can download manual from the ESU LokSound(American)website.
As a tip – fully seal the speaker within a speaker enclosure. I use silicon sealer to make the container fully air-tight, thus ensuring the best possible sound performance.
In regard to wiring – just follow the wiring diagram within the manual.Its pretty well straight forward.If your loco has a non matching plug to the decoder, just cut it off & hardwire. I prefer to hardwire my decoders – it takes up less room, & you can be sure that the wiring loom is correctly connected. Use heatshrink to insulate the solder joins.
Don’t be daunted by the prospect, take your time, follow the wiring diagram, remember ever if you do goof a connection, the chances of blowing up the decoder are remote. Most good brand decoders come with a “goofproof” warranty, so rest easy.
One more thing – be sure that the loco’s motor is fully insulated from the frame & pickups. DC operations usually had one side of the motor connected to the frame which was common to one pick-up. It is essential that the motor connects directly to the decoder, failing to do so, will result in a blown decoder.
Happy wiring,
Regards
Ian