DCC loco lighting

[Anonymous]

I recently installed DIGITRAX on my layout and have started to install a DH-140 in an Athearn GP40-2. I would like to install lights on both ends and would like input from others that have installed grain of wheat/rice bulbs in Athearn engines. My concerns are heat damage from the bulbs, what milli-amp bulb to use and any mounting tips.

[Anonymous]

Jim
I have just installed a Lenz DCC decoder and first used a 820ohm resistorin series for rach 1.5v bulb. However, as it wasn't bright enough I dropped it to 620ohm and now looks OK. I would try the 820ohm resistor at first and then if it is OK leave it. Otherwise go for the 620ohm and take the chance. The alternative would be to use either LEDs (560ohm) or optic fibres.
Regards John Parker Australia

[greendiamond]

The resistor value all depends on what voltage you are powering the trains with and the power (amperage) rating of the bulb. Best advise is not to use bulbs over 30ma due to the amount of heat they throw off. 50ma bulbs can melt shells fairly rapidly.

Another hint is to insert short pieces of aluminum tubing into your headlight openings and insert the bulbs into the tubing. Let a short piece of the tubing stick out into the shell so that the heat of the bulb can be dissapated down the tubing and into the air inside the shell instead of all heating up the plastic.

No need to ask how I know. Let's just call it experience (melt).

[ronsmith]

Jim,
Welcome to the SD40-2 crowd; I us 12volt, do not know the ma but I also use the metal bracket that is in the loco for my lights. I have not had any heat problems and I run a consist of seven 40-2's.
The tip about the amuminum tubing is and excellent one.
Ron

[Anonymous]

Ron, Thanks for the info. I've been experimenting with a loco recently. I had some square brass tube lying around and cut 2 pieces about a half inch each and glued one behind the cab lights and one on the rear lights. I'm going to put grain of wheat bulbs inside the tubes with a spot of silicone to hold them in place. The tube is almost large enough to block the holes from the back side. If you like I can let you know how it works out. My intent is to keep the cabs dark and just have headlights shining. Jim.