How do I convert a DC model locomotive into DCC locomotive?

Question

Am going to make an HO DCC set up, but have one good Bachman DC loco. Am new to this hobby after 45 year break.

Answer 1

Hello Again Gramps !

Older DC loco's are candidates for conversion to DCC. Normally, you'll head to your hobby-shop and buy a DCC-decoder (small package with 9 wires), and the paperwork IN the decoder packaging will include full instructions.

It will involve electrically "disconnecting" the motor from the wheels and lights from the wheels, then soldering the wires to their appropriate points.

Model Railroader magazine frequently print articles on how to do this in the magazine. You can also buy the book / pamphlet "DCC Made Easy" ($14.95 USD) from Kalmback Publishing. It has a nice chapter on "Decoder Installations". ( http://kalmbachcatalog.stores.yahoo.net/12242.html )

Honestly, to ANYONE getting into (or back into) the hobby, I STRONGLY suggest getting a subscription to "Model Railroading" magazine (http://www.trains.com/mrr/) , and buying several of the Kalmback books, including "Realistic Operations" and "Layouts for Realistic Operations".

These materials are inexpensive, and give you a chance to read about OTHER peoples errors in design, wiring, etc... much cheaper than making them yourself.

GOOD LUCK, and Happy Construction & Operations