Dear Board,
I know that I have seen the instructions for installing a decoder, (and pictures) for this engine. I just cannot find it. I thought about taking the DCC-ON-Board one apart, (that I also own) to see how Bachmann did it, but this might void the warranty....
Does anyone know where the these instructions are?
Thanks for the help.
I was told by the DCC guy at Caboose: "Don't try it". After he explained the procedure I had to agree. The major problem is isolating the motor, which picks up power from the chassis halves.
The list at TCS said this was for the 0-6-0, but the 4-6-0 is pictured. Perhaps the procedure is the same for both.
http://www.tcsdcc.com/Bachman%20Class%20B1%200-6-0.htm
Others may have a different view or actual experience.
Like Bob, I assume we are talking about the 0-6-0 with tender, not the 0-6-0T. Unlike Bob, I don't see isolating the motor as being particularly difficult for anyone who has successfully worked on Bachmann split frame steamers or diesels before. My personal recommendation is to add pickups to the tender wheels or use a tender that already has pickups. They really help for low speed operation across a lot of turnouts, which is the normal operation for a switcher.
I think the note at TCS, "Not for the faint of heart" fit me perfectly. My threshold for pain (and patience) has dropped a lot since I hit 70. 8)
Now take Jim there, he knows the meaning of pain. (No, Jim I haven't told a soul) :D
Jim, you have some great instructionx for doing the H16-44, but I think that is beyond me as well. It also looks like a bad idea for the faint of heart. Bob, get out of the frig!
I would like to thank you all for the responses. Yes, it is the 0-6-0 w/tender. I have 2 of these engines, and hate to get rid of them.....
I DID convert the Spectrum 0-6-0t. I was intimidated until I did! (I also wish I could get another one... HINT, HINT...Mr. B)
I want to "Practice" the decoder install on these.
I was NOT happy when I bought the GN 0-6-0 DCC ON Board engine. I do not like having a HUGE decoder sticking out of the cab. Therefore, I will replace it and install a DZ125 inside the unit. I am sure it will void the warranty, but I have been asked "What's that?" when I had company over....(Meaning the decoder)
I just hate to tear into a running DCC engine. I just remember the saying, (If is AIN't broke...."
I may just take apart the GN 0-6-0, and see how Bachmann did it. It IS the same engine....
Thanks again.
Remember I proper Engineer..Always fills his plate 2 times on Thanksgiving!
No,no, the model railroader's creed is: "If it ain't fixed break it". (large hammer, place in driveway, drop onto concrete, etc) 8)
Bob,
That is what visitors are fore'.... :o
if its a driveway, drive over it
In my junk box I have a 0-6-0 with pancake motor and 0-6-0 with can motor. Both came with the Vandy tender which are being used elsewhere. Isolating the motor would be quite a challenge.
Rich
Mr. Bachmann,
Since this is the SAME loco that you already sell... Would you be able to have someone that IS currently converting the 0-6-0's to DC ON BOARD, to take pictures and then post them on your website. I know you would not for "New" engines that are manufactured as DCC ON BOARD, but these are already on the market, and would not be a trade secret thing....
I would really appreciate it. If this is not possible, you could sent the pictures to my email.
From experience, if it is not DCC ready or equipped, don't bother. It really is more work than need be done and if the loco is not a good runner in analog, it will not improve in DCC. Diesels that are DCC ready I won't attempt either as the space is really at a premium in the body. In steam you have a tender, not so with a diesel.
pdlethbridge,
I beg to differ. I have successfully converted 7 or 8 Athearn Bluebox engines, 2 Mantuas, and an unknown; that "Would not have been worth it", or as others have stated; "From experience, if it is not DCC ready or equipped, don't bother." :P
I cannot afford to replace all 35 of my engines for DCC ready, or equipped units. Bachmann has successfully converted these SAME engines and re-sold them as a marketable item.
RichG, I will take those engines off your hands. Just email me off list. My email is accessable thru this board.
Again, thanks for the help. ;D
I began this hobby only 2 years ago, and I feel very fortunate that DCC was already well established. My first locomotive was a Spectrum 2-8-0 "on board", I liked it well enough to buy 3 more.
At first I was reluctant to buy the "ready" models, but after installing 7 decoders, including a Tsunami, in various locomotives, I have a lot of confidence in the current plug and play technology. (not to mention gaining a bit of confidence in myself).
I don't have any DC locomotives, but if I had even one I would certainly attempt to upgrade it. Whether or not it's "worth it" would be my decision alone.
I look at the Bachmann Mogul every time I visit Caboose Hobbies, at some point I will probably buy one and upgrade it just for my personal satisfaction. I have a lot of respect for modelers who are able to think "outside the box", and I feel I'm missing something by having never taken the challenge.
In Lee's case he has everything to gain and nothing to lose. I say "go for it".
Bob,
Might I suggest buying a new issue IHC Mogul instead of the Bachmann one. While the new Bachmann is a sweet runner, I believe, it is still a USRA 0-6-0 with added pilot wheels. The IHC is much closer to a real Mogul. I have an IHC Consolidation, a USRA 0-8-0, a C&O J-2 USRA Heavy Mountainand a 2-10-2. They are all good. Ooops - and two 4-6-4s - also good.
Gene
Bob
That Bachman mogul is a very nice running loco .I have one in my stable.If you are interested in a Challenger go to Athern Genesis . The sound in my opinion is awesome If you can run it through an area that will give a bit of an echo it increases the illusion of reality.
Don
dear htl, I have tried to install decoders in several Athearn units, GP's, SW's and a u25b. I was really at a disadvantage doing it one handed and to me it really is not worth my time to try again. In analog they were not all that great running and they were the same with DCC. Problem I had was fitting the Digitrax DH 123 under their hoods without popping wires. They were lettered for the B&M and would have looked right in place along side my MEC locos. I really wasn't trying to tell you not to install decoders in those units, only stating the problems I had with them. Again, to me they were not worth the time to fiddle with. My next project will be to convert 2 Bowser steamers to DCC. An old lady 2-8-0 and a USRA mike. Both have the upgraded DCC friendly motors. I've had the 2-8-0 running but its now in the paint and decal shop to get B&M heralds. The mike will be MEC. Again, These units have nice big tenders that will have enough room for a sound decoder and speaker.
Actually, I have no immediate plans for buying any more locomotives. The 44 tonner filled my roster with everything I need. I am also culling my cars, and about 30 of them will be departing here soon.
However I would like at least one steamer with sound. As you noticed in another thread, I am currently bashing a Connie into an 0-8-0T. A micro-tsunami fits nicely in the oil tank, and I plan on installing twin speakers in the front tanks (one on each side). I want the sound source to be realistic as possible.
pdlethbridge,
There is no ruffled feathers at my end... I am sorry my post came off that way. One thing I have started doing is to use Z-scale decoders in all my locos. There is not much room in most of them!!!
Thanks for the response.