DCC install

A

amtrack5899

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I am relatively new to G scale. I would like to learn how to install DCC into some used engines. What is the easiest type of DCC to install and what is the easiest engine to start with? I would like to work on some used aristo since they are readily available on ebay. I realize that you learn by just doing it but I need a starting point.
Thank you
Rich R
 
Used Aristocraft 'might' be easy, or might be a nightmare...

You may find it is wired in different colours to any information you may find for the loco.
It may well have already been 'messed' with, so there might be the odd 'gotcha' if you are not careful.

But if you work through methodically, you should be alright.
Being in the States, you may even find a lico/decoder combination that will just plug in. - We don't tend to be that lucky over here.

Get yourself a cheap meter, and you can 'bell' out the wiring. - Test which wire(s) come from pickups.
Connect just these and the wires to the motor(s) to start with.
Run on blocks (if there are two motors) to check both sets of wheels are running in the same direction.

Lights on early models can be a PITA!
A mix of bulbs and LEDs, and often common negative. - DCC uses a common positive for accessories.

Good luck!
PhilP.
 
amtrack5899 said:
Thanks PhilP, what make of decoder and where is the best place to buy them.
Click to expand...
What Central Station do you have? - I would stick with the same manufacturer..

Where to buy?
I am in the UK, I would suggest you find somewhere local-ish, and stick with them if you can.

We are living in interesting times, to be suggesting off-shore suppliers.

PhilP.
 
Welcome to the forum, Rich. You've started on the right track, as it were, and asked for advice BEFORE you discovered Magic Smoke!
 
amtrack5899 said:
I am relatively new to G scale. I would like to learn how to install DCC into some used engines. What is the easiest type of DCC to install and what is the easiest engine to start with? I would like to work on some used aristo since they are readily available on ebay. I realize that you learn by just doing it but I need a starting point.
Thank you
Rich R
Click to expand...
You also want to start with a 4 wire motor block. If there is only 3 wires coming out of the motor block it will require you to convert it to 4 wire motor block.
Most engines that states dcc ready are 4 wire motor block.
Which state are you located in?
David
 
I do DCC with Zimo and the older LGB (LGB decoders were made by Massoth and a few 55020 by Lenz). Marklin now uses there own decoders in LGB rolling stock. The newest Zimo decoders are 16 bit audio with storage for audio files. And there is 2 separate smoke outputs, one for smoke stack and the other for the 'cylinders'. You can also program up to 4 servos and I use 2 of these for remote uncoupling. Where in the USA are you located? I am 15 minutes from the Patriots home base in Foxboro Massachusetts. I have also worked with some other manufacturer decoders but did not like them, you get what you pay for.

On a side note one needs to remember that if you use decoders in DC mode they may not work with the 'pulsed' power power sources, and Marklin decoders need a setting change in CV50, or one must find the filter like the one Aristocraft made.
 
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