Bachmann #61716 GP38-2 DC to DCC

[NSguy]

I recently acquired a Bachmann #61716 GP38-2.  It is DC only, but the price was right!  How do I convert it to DCC.  What decoder(s) do you recommend?

[Bucksco]

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,27726.0.html

[NSguy]

Thanks.  But does the link apply to just DCC without sound?  I have been playing with trains for 50 years but am very new to DCC.

[bapguy]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHvK6JEjNqQ
youtube video. Note the frame was milled down to make room for a speaker. You could put a smaller speaker in and mill the frame less.   Joe

[NSguy]

This is all well and good but really doesn't answer my question.  The unit I have has a built-in (PCB13) on board.  Does Bachmann sell the equivalent DCC board and If so what is it?

[ACY]

This is all well and good but really doesn't answer my question.  The unit I have has a built-in (PCB13) on board.  Does Bachmann sell the equivalent DCC board and If so what is it?

No one sells a drop in decoder for this particular locomotive. It is not DCC-ready, so you would have to hardwire in a decoder such as the one the Yardmaster suggested, this will require soldering. To additionally add sound you must also mill the frame, so it is not a simple task by any means.

[NSguy]

That's what I was afraid of.  Soldering isn't a problem for me, I was just looking for an easier way out.  I am considering a Digitrax system for DCC. any suggestion for simple 2 function decoder?

Many thanks to all who replied.

[bapguy]

If you want DCC only, NCE makes a decoder for the Bachmann DCC loco's that should work on this loco. It replaces the PC board.   Joe
https://ncedcc.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/200945019-BACH-DSL

[NSguy]

Thanks Joe.