DC/DCC

[crash]

I Bought a Rapido GE 44 Tonner that is DC/DCC. (Bachmann didn't have a NP) I use EZ track with with Bachmann power pack for my sound locomotives. I also have a DC ez track layout with a Bachmann power pack. My question is, Can I run the Rapido on both layouts and if I can run it on the DCC layout, do I use the #10 button. Thanks for any help.

[Ralph S]

Will need specific information as to what Bachmann power packs you are using.  Bachmann makes both DC and DCC power packs.  I am assuming that the power pack for your sound locomotives are DCC, and the other power pack is DC for your DC layout.

Your GE 44 Tonner will operate on either EZ track (assuming both the locomotive and EZ track are HO scale).  As for the locomotive operating on the DCC power and track, that should not be a problem.  I do not have any experience with dual mode locomotives so that's where you would need to contact the locomotive manufacturer. 

My experience is that a DC locomotive will operate on a DCC powered track, but there is a caution needed.  When using the button 10 on the DCC EZ Command System (model 44901) for a DC locomotive, when you stop/pause, or leave that DC locomotive stationary on the DCC powered track; listen closely, there will be a low-level hum coming from that DC locomotive.  This is not good for the motor.  Bachmann even states in their documentation for DCC EZ command manual (page 6) (paraphrasing here) that monitoring the DC locomotive closely due to some DC motors are subject to overheating and damage if leaving the locomotive on the DCC system for long periods of time.

I haven't on a regular basis used the 10-button on my EZ DCC command system for DC locomotives, because I have all my DC locos on a small length of track separate from my main layout, I call that my museum rail line.  That's DC but it's more static than operating.

Hope that helps.

[crash]

Thanks for the info. I did manage to come across the manual for it and it indicated it was OK for both my DC and DC layouts. It's programed for #3. I won't use the #10 button for it. Thanks again.