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Converting An Older Non-DCC Loco
Selwyn asks readers:
“I have a couple of older style non-dcc engines (HO scale) I would like to convert over to DCC. They are both diesels. I expect almost anything is possible but my real question is it worth the effort and where do I start?”
4 Responses to Converting An Older Non-DCC Loco
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I have converted four Bachmann DC diesel engines. All are older models with various type metal frames. I have used the NCE – BACH-DSL decoder which converts to DCC (no sound). This decoder is made specifically to Bachmann. The decoders only run about $20.00. If you have others brands you will probably need differenct dicoders. You should have good soldering iron of low voltage and have some experience with soldering very small wiring. After the first one it comes a lot easier. Start on an old engine that you can afford to make mistakes with to start. Check UTube for some videos.
You will also need to have a basic understanding of electrical polarity and how to connect the wires and isolation of the engine to avoid shorting out the engine. Good Luck.
Selwyn,
1. Do your loco’s run smooth and quietly? If yes then you can move ahead with the conversion
2. If they are a name brand locos then search the DCC decoder manufacturers for solutions and what type of decoder is recommended for your specific brand loco. Digitrax and Soundtrax have very good selection tools available on their websites.
3. If your locos are older, then the install is more complicated and may require you to solder some connections but if they are newer you may already have an NMRA 8 pin connector on board which will make the install much easier.
4. Do your research, go slowly and after you are finished you will have many more years of enjoyment from your locos.
Hello!
I recently made the conversion of some of my DC locomotives for DCC and the results were very good. What did I tell you is that it is preferable that they are of a younger generation with more quality and more elaborate construction engines. In my opinion, very old locomotive has a performance that leave something to be desired and would not have a satisfactory desepenho even operating in DCC.
Start by, look up information about the prototype of its locomotives and look between the various DCC manufacturers a decoder that is specific to the model you want to convert, a Plug & Play decoder type. It gets easier.
If you do not find a decoder such, look for a generic models that have features of their model, engine type, horns and lighting effects that the prototype of a locomotive present and you want to play in your model. This type of decoder is more work to install, have to study a little more before making the conversion, but the results are good, too.
I have two videos on Youtube on the conversion of a Atheran locomotive, which put a motion decoder.
After. I redid this conversion to a sound decoder, but no video was posted at this stage. If you want to see them, links are:
Part 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIBYqG8bt0g
Part 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eo_SBJW0rSA
Greetings
J.Oscar
Diesels are easier than steamers, others have left your great advice or hints, I have found that some loco’s need modification to fit the decoders usually frame modifations, N scale decoders work well on ho deisels. NCE has a good source for decoders and tech help.