DCC for some engines

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the replies everyone. I've got some reading to do.

-OT

[AntonioFP45]

Pnevell,

Thanks for the link! I'm bookmarking it.

High Greens!

[rrinker]

Some places to look for decoder selection:

http:\\www.digitrax.com
http:\\www.tonystrains.com
http:\\www.litchfieldstation.com
http:\\www.tcsdcc.com
http:\\www.loystoys.com

That should get you started.

--Randy

[Anonymous]

Welcome to the world of DCC. You'll never go back to DC! Digitrax has a decoder that just plugs into the P2K geeps and you don't even have to change out the lights. I believe it lists for about $30.00. Tony's has it at a discount. The whole conversion takes a couple of minutes! When it comes to which system (controller) to purchase I would try to find layouts near you using the various ones and see which one you like best before you decide. Also, the one most popular among modelers in your area might be a good choice because there will be lots of experienced users near at hand to answer any questions you may have once you get your system in place. In any case, good luck and enjoy!

[pnevell]

I found a web site very helpful. Go to wiringfordcc.com It answered a lot of question I had.

[AntonioFP45]

Hey guy! Congrats!

First as far as brand, based on reliable feedback from a close friend who own's a computer company, go with a Digitrax Zephyr. Excellent for DCC beginners and easy to expand.

As for DCC "motor control only" decoders, I will be using Digitrax and TCS decoders.
Had the opportunity to attend an installation clinic and even run locomotives with these decoders with a Zephyr. Flawless operation! LIghting effects were incredible with L.E.Ds.

Soundtraxx has DSX series "sound only" decoders that can be used in conjunction with the above mentioned motor decoders, but space is a premium in some locomotives. I'm going to wait for the Tsunami decoder, which will be both a motor and sound decoder. Expensive, yes.

Important: You have to check the performance of the locomotives you've mentioned above. DCC and "higher amps" don't exactly jibe together. For instance, my older Athearn SD-9 drinks almost 3 amps in the stall current test, whearas my newer Atlas FP7 doesn''t even come near 1/2 amp! I have two Athearn UBoats and five FP45s that will receive Mashima motors. They don't draw high amps with the current Athearn motors, but I want high performance and don't mind waiting a little longer by budgeting to get it right!

Some Bachmann's and early P2K diesels are "amp drinkers" so check carefully and consider your options.

Hopefully the DCC gurus like Joe Fugate will chime in as they have plenty of info. I'm looking forward to Joe's Siskyou Volume 3 tape, which is supposed to include a section on DCC sound.

Cheers!

[cacole]

Each different type and manufacturer of the locomotives you listed require different decoders because some of them use simple "plug-n-play" decoders and some may require soldering.

Your best bet would be to look at a major source such as Tony's Train Exchange (http://www.tonystrains.com) where there is a chart indicating which type of decoder each engine requires.

[Anonymous]

I have not converted to DCC yet and I am starting to look into what the investment would be. Be sides the controller I would need to convert my motive power. The following are some of my head end power that I would need to convert. The sound capabilities are the strong draw for me to enter DCC. What DCC installations would you recommend for the following...

Bach-

Spectrum USRA Light 4-8-2 Mountain

Plus F7B

Life Like-

P2K GP9 PhIII

P2K E7 A&B

IHC-

2-6-0 Moguls

Mantua-

2-6-6-2 Tank Logger

Those are the larger engines, I have other small steam (0-4-0T) and a 2 truck shay kit that may not be worth the effort.

Is there a good cross reference guide to look up what DCC fits a chassis and installation tips?

Thanks for the help.

-OT