How to DCC decoder installs

[Port Robinson East yard]

Hi All

I am new to this forum. I was wondering if there are any good places online to find some "How to" info on installing DCC decoders into legacy (older) locomotives. I have some which are pushing 30 years of age which I just aquired in an auction.

Thanks for any help

 

[stokesda]

You might try the "DCC for Beginners" file at Tony's Train Exchange www.tonystrainexchange.com

When it comes down to it, basically all decoder installations are the same. You have to ensure the motor is electrically isolated from the frame, then just connect the wires to the appropriate places (the decoder should have instructions that tell you where they go). Oh, and you should do a stall current test on the motor before installation to ensure you won't burn out the decoder (see "DCC for Beginners").

That being said, some decoder installations are trickier than others, simply because of the space available for the installation. Sometimes you might have to grind/cut the metal frame, or use an N-scale decoder in an HO loco due to space. In cases like this, the stall current test is even more critical because the N scale decoders have a lower amp rating than their larger HO counterparts.

For examples of installations in specific locos, Tony's Train Exchange and Litchfield Station both have some examples, but they may be too new for the equipment you have. You could also try doing a Google search to see if anyone out there has posted a how-to. You might be surprised at what turns up.

Good luck!

 

[Port Robinson East yard]

Great stuff

Thanks Dan

 

[Myowngod]

I get a lot of tips from these sites.

http://www.tcsdcc.com/Installation_list_by_Manufacter.htm

http://www.litchfieldstation.com/lobby/InstEx.htm

And then Tony's is a good place, also.

What engine are you looking to do first? Maybe someone here has done one before.

 

[Port Robinson East yard]

Thanks Ron

I have an old Mantua 2-8-2 in TH&B livery. However after reading some of the articles I am thinking it may be a little to ambitious for a rookie. I am thinking one of my old athearns first.

Your layout looks great.....looking forward to more pics as you build

 

[UP2CSX]

Doing one of your older Athearns first is definitely a good idea. You'll get a chance to practice your soldering skills with enough room not to mess things up and there are several sites, like the ones Ron gave that will give you step by step instrctons on how to do it. A steam engine is more complicated to begin with an old Mantua even more so. I'd leave that until you have a good handle on how to do a hardwire install.