$ to get into Lionel command,, in older engines??

[Boyd]

A local dealer told me I couldn't install Lionel command into my older 80s GP9 and GP7s. If I can do this, how much $ would it cost. I don't have any controllers or special transformers for this. I don't need any sound or other stuff. It would just be nice to controll 3 different engines separate or together. Boyd.

[ben10ben]

Just a basic conversion to command control for those engines will cost you under $100($80 to be exact) from Digital Dynamics( www.digitdynam.com ) for each engine. The kit is pretty easy to install yourself, or there are people out there who do it for a small fee.

On top of the money to convert your engine, you will need a TMCC command set for about $100. This can be used with your existing transformer, so no other purchase is necessary.

[3railguy]

Train America Studios another alternative. They sell an 8 amp AC driver board for conversions without railsounds for $80.
http://www.tastudios.com/tascmdupgrades.htm
Like Ben says, you also need a Cab 1 and Command base for around $100.

You can add a TPC unit (TPC 300 or 400) to the command base with a seperate sale patch cord and control older engines without TMCC in conventional mode. However, you can't run more than one engine on the same track. The TPC unit is like a wireless transformer controlling voltage and whistle signals to the track. They are around $100.