Half-track vehicles are a unique type of military vehicle that combines the features of both wheeled and tracked...
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What advantages does a half-track vehicle possess over other vehicle types ?Read more -
What is the difference between an EMD GP7 and an EMD GP9 locomotive?Read moreThe GP7 and GP9 are types of diesel-electric locomotives that were produced by the American locomotive manufacturer...
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In model railways - what does analogue mean?Read moreModel railway jargon can be a little confusing when new to the hobby, and often the simplest questions are the ones...
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What is the correct spacing to use between two parallel tracks in N gauge?Read moreIn real life, the distance between parallel track centres differs depending on factors such as when the track was...
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In model railways, what does digital mean?Read moreThe word 'digital' when used in model railways usually refers to a model or product being specifically manufactured...
Can a non DCC ready engine be converted to DCC?
In theory, any analogue model railway locomotive can be converted to DCC, but instead of having a socket to plug a decoder into (like you would on a DCC-ready loco) you will need to hardwire the decoder directly to the locomotive yourself.
But before you rush off to buy a conversion kit or a decoder, make sure you can identify the function of all the wires inside your model because you will be required to patch into them. Good soldering skills would be an advantage too.
Another challenge is space. Don't forget that any additional wiring and the decoder must all be able to fit somewhere inside your locomotive's bodyshell. This is probably the biggest challenge most modellers face when converting their engines to DCC. Fortunately, decoders are becoming smaller as the technology evolves, but even then, some models of smaller tank engines or engines of smaller gauges struggle tremendously for space. So make sure you have some before deciding to convert.
Converting your engines to DCC can be very rewarding, and with every model you convert, the job gets easier. But don't forget to check for space first!
Posted in: Model Railway
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