Convert it to battery RC

Can't help you much either - I'm strictly track power running mfx+ and DCC. But welcome anyway! I'm sure lots of others here will help. I do have one suggestion for you though. Get an "exploded" diagram for your loco if you don't already have one. One source is "onlytrains.com" under the "LGB Manuals" tab. But, even with the diagram, taking apart locos can be a challenge. You're wise to ask for tips from someone who has modified the specific model you have in mind.

Phil S.
 
Hi Gavin.
There is a difference between actually switching from one source of power to another via a switch that actually isolates one or the other source.
The AristoCraft switch does not do that.
Don't believe me, "Accidentally" leave it set to track power and you will find battery voltage going to the track.
Then the problem wil be the output of the battery circuit can be shorted out. That can blow up the output circuit of an ESC.
That cannot happen with a proper DPDT switch..

As to dodgy internals. Some of the SD-45's ran fine nose to tail, but shorted out if set up back to back.
 
a98087 said:
I’ve converted one of these to battery manual control, i added a dpdt switch in the cab so that’s I can switch between track or battery power,

I fitted a removable 3s 5ah lipo battery (12v but lipos are labelled differently)in the tender and a speed controller as well.

In theory all you have to remove the current motor wires and run new wires into your chosen speed controller.

I Recommend that you fit in the tender as it’s massive and make sure it easy.

This link might help , but it’s geared for dcc fitting not battery


If you want photoshop of my set up just ask

Dan
Click to expand...
Hi Dan, I would love to see what you have done to your Loco to make battery manual control. Thanks All the best, Choppercook
 
Here’s my battery conversion

It’s uses a dpdt switch for to swap the polarity to do the direction
You fit the switch after the output of the for the spend controller

Then speed controller is a pwm motor controller for 0-24 motors from eBay bought very cheaply, there lots to choose from so choose one that will fit the space


View showing the back of cab, the lead goes to the tender, the switch selects track or battery power
C6A522D2-923D-40D1-AAD8-B21D93E484BE.jpeg


Underneath of the tender, ive removed the screws and taped them to the inside of the tender for safe keeping,
It show the switch and speed controller
530E4233-6DAF-4F8D-A10B-952F25E3151F.jpeg

Top view of tender, the black knob is rotated for speed, Andy the switch does the direction, it’s not too intrusive and you just set then speed And leave the loco to run
6F526269-2663-4238-B545-755DD8178F32.jpeg

Total cost is less than £10 not including battery

Hope this helps

Dan
 
Hi Chopper, welcome!!
I have been using Deltang/RCTRAINS so far with 3 x LGB conversions and two kit built locos. All are controlled by the same controller which is convenient as it saves having several controllers.
You are coming from RC helicopters so you are used to that type of paddle controller and LiPo batteries.
I am in the process of moving to RC control using this system.
Proposed kit:
- Flysky i6 Transmitter and associated receiver. Sold as a package. The transmitter handles 10 channels and stores up to 20 craft in memory, easily to switch between. Your existing transmitter may do the same.
- brushed ESC appropriate for voltages up to 18v
- loco wired for battery power. Very easy electronically, particularly if suggestions are followed from the above notes. The tricky part can be the dismantling of the loco.
I have standardised upon a design that I fit into a wagon and run a cable or two to the loco - lights, motor power.
The disadvantage over the Deltang system is size but the wagon overcomes that. Furthermore access to the LiPo battery is easier.
You will be accustomed to programming a helo controller. You will need to work out several points:
- reversing polarity to allow the train to run backwards. Helos do not normally do this!! I understand that the i6 allows such programming by mixing channels with a master/slave configuration.
- lights. The receiver control channels give unswitched power. So ideal for, say, a cab light
- lights may be switched by means of a switching accessory available from eBay.
- directional lights I have yet to figure out but definitely possible.
Then .... .... there is the possibility of using servos to control points. This would be done using an additional receiver.
I see this as a very robust, flexible solution. Very practical if there is plenty if space available. I hope my sixpence-worth helps.
Tim
 
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I couldn't get the link to work but tracked down the video here -
You've made a great start. I like the way the track grew from shot to shot. I'm really impressed with the plastic track. A cost effective way of getting out into the garden. Does anyone know how UV resistant it is?

Rik
 
Welcome to the forum Chopper. Your video showing the 'growth expansions' of the layout is great.
Marvellous use of the plastic track.
 
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