I recently inherited a PK2 0-8-0 and a S3 which I am converting to DCC.
I couldn't find the instruction sheet for the S3 so I plunged ahead and did install a TCS decoder and replaced the headlights. I used 14 volt 30mA bulbs. Everything works just fine.
I then opened the box of the 0-8-0 and of course the instructions sheet for the S3 was in there but it said I should use a 12 volt 50 mA bulb and so does the instruction sheet for the 0-8-0.
Will using the 14 volt 30 mA bulbs cause any problems?
I also have a question regarding a Soundtrax LL080LC decoder I have that I took out of a PK2 0-6-0 due to excessive motor hum. A fellow at my LHS says he has that decoder in a 0-8-0 and hasn't experienced the hum issue. Before I bother to put it into the 0-8-0 I was wondering if others had noticed the hum issue with this decoder in this loco. I understand that it is an old design and not a silent decoder.
Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me.
CN Charlie
The 14 volt bulb shouldn't cause any problems. The only thing is that it may heat up and deform the shell. I don't know much about these two units described, but there might be a heat sink of some kind. You may want to replace the bulbs with LEDs and the proper resistors.
I am not familiar with the Soundtraxx decoder you mentioned.
Will
14v is BETTER than 12v. The function output on the decoder will be 12v or slightly higher, depending on the track voltage of your DCC system, so a 12v buld will actually be running over its rating, get hotter, and burn out faster. 14v bulbs will run at or slightly below their rating and thus last longer. And 50ma is pushing the limit on some decoder's function outputs, so 30ma is also better.
Unlike when running DC, the lights will be getting full power all the time they are turned on (unless you use dimming, or it's a flashing beacon of some sort), and so tend to get warmer then they ever would with normal DC operation. This is why I prefer to use LEDs with DCC. Golden white type look like incandescent bulbs and do not get even slightly warm - and last virtually forever. Use a 1K resistor with each LED.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
CN Charlie,
Since you're running those bulbs a little under their rated voltage, they'll last longer. And since they're lower current, there's actually less of a chance that they'll generate enough heat to cause any damage. You should be fine.
I can't help you with the LL080LC, except to point out that locos vary, as does one's interpretation of what's objectionable and what's not. All you can do is try it and see.
HTH, Steve