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Should I remove my decoder locos when running DC?

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  • Member since
    September 2004
  • From: Dearborn Station
  • 24,281 posts
Posted by richhotrain on Saturday, September 26, 2015 2:59 PM

jjdamnit

However, if you are completely converting; changing track power sources from DCC to DC, I would recommend removing or isolating your DCC motive power. 

Personally I would remove or isolate the DCC motive power and enjoy the operation of the DC brass locos.

I agree, and the key words here are "remove or isolate".  Since the DCC locos will all be stored in the roundhouse, if removal is a burden, then isolate the roundhouse tracks by installing a kill switch on the roundhouse lead track(s).

Rich

Alton Junction

  • Member since
    September 2014
  • From: 10,430’ (3,179 m)
  • 2,311 posts
Posted by jjdamnit on Saturday, September 26, 2015 2:32 PM

Hello All,

From what I'm understanding is that your DCC system can produced a "DC" signal for a given address. Similar to the Bachmann EZ-Command system; pg. 6.

The problem with the digital waveform, known as zero stretching from a DCC controller, is that if the DC loco is left idle on the track the analog (DC) motor might overheat to a catastrophic point.

If you are producing a zero stretching waveform your DCC motive stock should not be at risk.

However, if you are completely converting; changing track power sources from DCC to DC, I would recommend removing or isolating your DCC motive power. 

Some decoders can handle both DCC and DC operation with the CV's correctly set. (See decoder manufacturers website for dual-function settings).

If the decoders are not set up for this you run the risk of blowing decoders. They will fry before the motor is damaged in this situation.

Keep in mind, any of the decoders that are setup for dual-function will also move when the DC throttle is applied.

Personally I would remove or isolate the DCC motive power and enjoy the operation of the DC brass locos.

Hope this helps.

"Uhh...I didn’t know it was 'impossible' I just made it work...sorry"

  • Member since
    December 2007
  • 160 posts
Should I remove my decoder locos when running DC?
Posted by Gerome on Saturday, September 26, 2015 12:52 PM

My friend is coming over with his beautiful old brass locos to run them for a bit.  They are DC and so we run them with the DCC controller as a DC loco.  However, I have felt in the past that it is best to remove all my DCC locos from the track while addressing the DC as loco 00 for the safety of the decoders.  I forget why I have this in my mind. 

Is removing my DCC locos a good precaution?  This is a bit of a nuisance because I usually have a dozen or so out and tucked away in roundhouses, sidings etc. Thanks.

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