Kind of Off Topic but Bachmann does sell a HO General with motor in the boiler now with DCC and sound in the tender.
Bachmann might have a DCC ready for DC operation. You have to check their site. They still sell the one with motor in the tender. Be carefull. A lot less cost.
A little over two hundred with free shiiping at Amazon for sound.
Other places sell it maybe a little less with shipping charge.
Rich
If you ever fall over in public, pick yourself up and say “sorry it’s been a while since I inhabited a body.” And just walk away.
I can't answer your questions, but it does seem like an interesting project, so I did a couple of quick searches, and came across this:
https://www.modelrollercoasterhq.com/index.php/home-vintage-trains/MRRHQ-Custom-CanDrive-HO-Scale-Mantua-or-Tyco-4-4-0-General-Factory-Quality-Can-Motor-Upgrade-p54223209
There is also a member in here ( actually more than one) that does projects like this, RDG Casey. Look for his builds in the Weekend Photo Fun thread.
Mike.
My You Tube
I am trying to remotor a Tyco General. Can anyone tell me what RPM the Tyco motor runs at 12v?
Also, what is the gear ratio of the Tyco motor?
RicZ