decoder choice for old AHM

[bscroggi]

Guys, I have three old (1970's) AHM locos--the Big Boy, the Cab Forward, and the Challenger. I want to convert them to DCC. Can this conversion be done, and if it can, would any of you offer a decoder make/model for this conversion? I don't know if this makes a difference, but I model HO and the Digitrax Zephyr is my power source. Thanks.

[CMSTPP]

I don't exactly know if the locomotive can be converted over to DCC or not but I can recommend a chip too you. The DA series chip from NCE is probably one of the best chips out at the moment. I have one in almost every locomotive and they run great.
James

[jecorbett]

I would also be interested in this. I have those same three locos, plus several Hudsons, a Pacific, a Mikado, and a 10 wheeler. I am assuming by AHM you mean Rivarossi since they were the manufacturer. AHM was the American distributor for Rivarossi before IHC took over from them.

The big articulateds don't really fit the theme of my new layout but I would still like to be able to bring them out and run them on occasions.

[cacole]

A Train control Systems T-1 decoder, which can be found for $15, should fit into all of those locomotives with no problems, and it can handle the current load of the older motors. I've also used a lot of the NCE DA-SR decoders, but they are quite large compared to the TCS.

[jwmurrayjr]

This link might give you a general idea of what's involved in converting a similar loco to DCC. And there are probably more detailed instructions on the net somewhere.

http://www.trainweb.org/silversanjuan/Page3/Page15.html

Here's another from the MR site:

http://www.trains.com/Content/Dynamic/Articles/000/000/002/388hbotf.asp

Have fun,

[bscroggi]

CMSTPP,
Thanks for your offering. I have used NCE in other locos and they worked out well...

jecorbett,
I know that I can run them with the Zephyr without a decoder, but I really want to get them taken care of, if possible. I'll bet if you continue to watch this topic, you'll also get the info that you are looking for...

cacole,
I appreciate your input. I read your posts regularly on the general board. You have some very enlightening and insightful posts. Thanks...