New Dilemma: Do I convert my Loco to DCC or get one set up for it?

[SpaceMouse]

I joined a MRR club tonight. They are set up for DCC. This means that I heard DCC for the first time and I am convinced it is the way to go. Way cool.

So here is the dilema. The club has a very lax set of rules about locos you can run. But a 2-6-0 pulling a bunch of logs won't fit their theme no matter how I look at it. However, my Bachman 4-8-4, probably out of an EZ track starter set., will fit in. The question is, do I convert the 4-8-4, or get a new more modern engine for their layout.

I guess the the question really is: Is the Bachman worth converting?

[Anonymous]

Spacemouse,
Is the Bachmann of which you speak a "Spectrum" branded model? Spectrum is Bachmann's premium line, and generally, Spectrum locomotives are probably worth upgrading. Bachmann's standard line locomotives, for the most part, are probably not worth upgrading. There may be a few exceptions on this either way, but it's a good rule of thumb to start with. Bachmann does offer their entry level DCC set with a locomotive which can be found in the discount outlets for less than $100. This would allow you to have a locomotive with the DCC decoder already in place, along with a DCC starter system for your home layout that you could use for the same locomotive when you're not operating at the club. This system does not have many features, but for the price, it looks like it would not be too bad. I'm sure someone on this board could give you more info about this system. Good luck in finding what suits your needs.

[TurboOne]

Eric, Way to go on hitting the big 100.
Congrats. You did it quick.

I think your question is up to you. If you like RTR then add a new loco, no fuss, no muss. If you like to tinker and "do it yourself" I have been told you can add it to anything. Spectrum Backmann are ready for DCC and regular you have to add and do some work on wires. Sorry I many not use the right words, but that is why I am on this forum. If you update the Bachmann I would enjoy hearing about your experience. I have one regular bachman gp40 and one dcc gp40. The regular one just needs a board added to it with a little bit of solder if you like doing that.

I may upgrade mine as I learn more about DCC decorder and which one works for me at a reasonable price if there is such a thing.

Tim

[Anonymous]

Spacemouse,
You could try contacting Tony's Train Exchange regarding upgrading your locomotive to DCC. They are fairly knowledgable and should be able to help you find the right decoder for your application. Their website has a wealth of information as well, including a decoder selection chart that really helped me recently. I ended up ordering a Prodigy Advance DCC system from them and am expecting it by the end of the week (provided the UPS guy can get through the snow). I also understand Loy's Toys (IIRC) is also very helpful and is specialized in this area. Tony's site also has general DCC info that I found to be particularly useful to me since I am just getting into DCC.

Tim,
Thanks for your welcome on the other post. I've been involved in MRR for nearly 30 years off and on, but am new to the forum. Tony's or Loy's could help you with the decoder for your GP40 as well.

[Jetrock]

The 4-8-4 is a Bachmann Plus toy-train engine. If you really like the idea of doing a lot of tiny soldering to produce a locomotive which still won't run particularly well, then go for it.

[SpaceMouse]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Jetrock

The 4-8-4 is a Bachmann Plus toy-train engine. If you really like the idea of doing a lot of tiny soldering to produce a locomotive which still won't run particularly well, then go for it.

That's kind of what I figured.

I don't see has how I'll have much choice with the Hogwart's Express though.

[Anonymous]

Why not do both,with Bachmanns new release their line of dcc equipped locos are cheap,from what I have seen there not bad runners for under 40 dollars.That gives you the ability to run at the club and experience dcc,while in the meantime you can buy a decoder and expermint with the installation process.there are several good decoders that offer basic control that can be found in numerous places for 25 dollars or less.Terry

[Anonymous]

Bachmann have assembly diagrams for their locos at www.bachmann.co.uk/dloads/assmbly.php4 which might be of use for converting your "Hogwarts" to DCC - the Bachmann Hogwarts is a "Modified Hall". If it's anything like the Jubilee class I have you'll need to isolate the motor (could be tricky as it's sandwiched between the split frames), but it should be possible. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

Spacemouse,

I was going to ask the same question.

I echo the call to talk with Tony's Train about the conversion to DCC. I just talked with Tony and Ken there yesterday via phone to order in my GP9 with Sound. Tony is really trying to get me up and running with DCC, and I'm trying to BACK into it.

I am glad that most of my stuff right now is either P2K, Athearn Genesis stuff that is pretty easy to get the encoders for.

Chris

[cacole]

A Bachmann Plus engine is not worth the cost of a decoder -- get a Spectrum. I installed a decoder into an SP Daylight engine for a fellow club member, and I will never try that again for anyone. For a steam engine, all of the drive rods had to be removed, the locomotive had to be completely disassembled in order to isolate the motor from the frame, and then everything had to be reassembled, piece by piece. A Spectrum has a socket in the tender that you can simply plug a decoder into and start running.

[Anonymous]

I'd get a Bachmann Spectrum steam locomotive and save yourself the hassle of converting that 4-8-4 to DCC. If you're interested in another set, this one doesn't look bad at all: http://www.internettrains.com/bahosccogewa.html

The locomotive is DCC ready and plus you get all those cool passenger cars.