DCC

[Anonymous]

Hey everyone! I have a question about DCC. Is it possible to change a normal HO locomotive into something that uses DCC?

[bcammack]

Yes. You buy a decoder and install it in the locomotive. Figure $20-$30 for the decoder and something for having it installed if you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself. Check out someplace like Tony's Train Exchange (www.tonystrains.com) for more information on the sort of decoders and their costs that are available to you.

If it's a "Dcc-ready" locomotive, you may have to do no more than remove the shell, unplug a "non-DCC" adapter (I don't know the proper term) and plug the decoder into the harness.

[darth9x9]

The only caveat is that you need to isolate the motor from the frame. Sometimes this can be next to impossible but only in much older locos. Otherwise, it's a snap!!!