I would highly recommend AirWire combined with Phoenix sound. It's a great combination. My favorite aspect is the ability to control many sound functions with the push of a button. The range is also very good, something important to us since we run in a forest.
Currently we have two moguls with this system. Because we were so impressed with these moguls, as I type this, an LGB #50 switcher and Accucraft Goose #5 are being converted to AirWire.
All of our remote/battery conversions have been professionally installed by Jonathan Bliese of Electric & Steam Modelworks. Here is a link to his website:
Electirc Modelworks
Jonatahn does great work and is an expert on R/C installations. During our open house during last years narrow gauge convention in Durango Colorado, many visitors commented on how smoothly our AirWire system worked and how impressed they were with the range we could operate away from the locomotive. The visitors also enjoyed the various sounds operated by the push of a button. On of the most commented on was the water tower fill sound.
The conversion is expensive, however I'll let you contact Jonathan (or another installer) about costs since each installation is going to be different. But the results are well worth the expense. Especially since we no longer have to constantly clean the rails, ensure the rail joiners are clean, and not have to worry about reverse loops and non isolated switch frogs.
Hope this information helps a bit. Take a look at our website (link in my signature) for photos of the two moguls that have been converted.
Matt from Anaheim, CA and Bayfield, COClick Here for my model train photo website
Thanks guys for more input. It's great to hear what works for each of you.
-Soulman
Soulman, I equipped a LGB Mogul with Airwire 900 and Phoenix sound (P5 complete) about 6 months ago. This combination is super, I also have Bachmann on Airwire, control both with the same throttle, I'm going to add the Phoenix sound, just need another $174.00 dollars.... Airwire 900 and one receiver is around $275, additional receivers about 145. Battery packs for my LGB made up to 14 volts ($60 with charger) and for my Big Hauler I use 12 volt gel sells ($14). I did all the conversion my self and I'm not an electrician, just need patients and follow instructions. The LGB tender, I had to cut out part of the inside to make the pack fit, added a fuse block and a floor to cover sound chip and speaker, pack sits on that. I get about 3 hours of good running time takes about 1 1/2 hour to recharge, I have 2 packs. I live in windy West Texas, R/C is the only way for me.
Sawdust
I use a trailer car battery/RC set up for my Dunkirk model. I hooked up an ammeter in circuit of the track power feed and under load and grade it never pulled more than an amp. I used the RCS Basic 2 system, with batteries and accessories you are looking at $240 or so.
-Brian
Glad to help!
As was mentioned...there are dealers in the states that can help with your needs....
Don Sweet-RCS of NE
Dave Goodson-NWRCS
Give 'em a call, and you'll be on your way!
I found the system was very easy to install, although I did make a few calls to WA for tech support! RCS also makes different components that make the install even easier, and faster!
Not knowing your background, I'd still encourage you to try it yourself....
cale
Yes the Upstate of SC is a wonderful place!
Soulman,
Not having a dealer in your state isn't a problem with RCS, I know for a fact Dave at NorthwestRCS is more than willing to help out a person over the phone if needed. I've even had Tony call me from Austrailia when I was doing a conversion to help with some special wiring.
As for getting loco's converted you can send them to either NorthwestRCS or RCS of New England to be converted or with the simple directions that come with the system you could do it yourself with the knowledge that you can always call either place if you need any help.
As for the Airwire system I can't comment because I've never used it, but I have heard good things about it too.
Jack
Calenelson:
Thanks for the reply. Well, my LGB 26194 has sound and MTS; I'd like to be able to trigger the sound, smoke and light functions at the push of a button. I've seen some of the "compact" transmitters...that would be more so what I'd like to operate.
I'm not sure if you have read any of my other posts; I am fairly new to Large Scale. I am planning on starting my first outdoor railroad this summer. I think the end result will have about 200-400 feet of track, more than likely brass. I have spoken with a few folks here in IL who run track power and brass track, and they report other than light cleaning, no issues. So, I thought that would be they way I would proceed as well.
Some of the very helpful people on this forum suggested battery power. None of the dealers here in IL stock/sell (that I've ever seen) battery RCS equipment. My main issue is: where can I get my loco's converted? It appears that I will have to have them shipped somewhere out of IL. Battery power will certainly solve some of the associated issues with track power....just not sure if the absence of dealer support close by will be more of a headache than help.
Anyway, I certainlly appreciate your help.
Thanks again,
Soulman
P.S. I was in GSP on Monday......like the area!
I am a happy RCS user, and to answer your question/s we may need a little more info...
Are you wanting the Pocket Remote, or 2 stick RC?
Are you interested in Sound or Not? Sound/Light Control?
Are you interested in installing yourself or having someone do for you?
The answers for the above will determine what the final cost would be.
For instance, my first RCS system (2 stick RC, Drill Battery, and EVO Throttle in a trail car cost me about $120+/-).
My latest venture for an Annie I recently converted with RCS Elite, Sierra Sound and the Pocket Transmitter was more expensive ($500+/-)
The RCS system can be catered to your specific needs and the cost will vary accordingly. As I said, I am more than pleased with RCS, currently I'm prepping for the install in a Saddle Tanker and Rail Truck!
The Dealer Network here in the States and the Manuf. Tony Walshman in AU are OUTSTANDING folks to deal with!
You should have no trouble having all components on board.
Hello all. I am debating going with a battery rcs railroad. Can anyone give me an idea on the cost of a battery conversion for an LGB Mogul? I am considering RCS and Airwire 900; would like to have the batteries (if possible) in the locomotive/tender.
As always, any advice is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
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