DC units on DCC track.

[Tank]

Is it possible to still run DC units on DCC track?

I see a ton of good deals out there now for very good units on for $60, $70, $80, simply because they are not DCC or sound.

Is it possible to still run these units on a DC setup? Is there a controller pack available with say a switch on it, where you can choose DC or DCC operation for the track it is connected to?

I would love to make some purchases while still being "future ready" even though DCC is not new, I want sound and the benefits of DCC control in the future when it fits my budget better.

 

[bobwrgt]

Not good to run DC on Dcc track. May damage some motors and burn out the lights.
I would go for a second DC transformer (could be cheap) and a few toggle switches to switch back and forth from DCC to DC.

Bob

 

[Espeefan]

Some systems let you run a loco on an analog channel. Digitrax lets you do this by selecting address "zero" and by something they call "zero stretching" where the system "fools" the DC motor into thinking it's on DC instead of AC. I have done this in the past and noted a low buzzing or squealing from the motor, and reduced performance. I think this feature is on some systems to let you run older units while you are in the process of changing over. Best not to let the model sit on the track idle for any extended amount of time or it will damage the motor, so best to take it off the layout when it's not running, or keep it on an isolated siding. Never lost any lights though.

 

[kbkchooch]

Not good to run DC on Dcc track. May damage some motors and burn out the lights.
I would go for a second DC transformer (could be cheap) and a few toggle switches to switch back and forth from DCC to DC.

Bob

If you need more direction with a DPDT switch, get ahold of the Sept 2009 RMC. There's an article there on building a switch that will let you go back and forth from DC and DCC, without disconnecting stuff all the time or frying your DCC system.