Bachmann Online Forum

Discussion Boards => On30 => Topic started by: laingsirish on November 25, 2007, 08:46:09 AM

Title: Retro fitting DCC on porters etc
Post by: laingsirish on November 25, 2007, 08:46:09 AM
Can I fit bachmann decoders to my analog porter and shay locos to use with the EZ command system?
I would be grateful for any advice!
Title: Re: Retro fitting DCC on porters etc
Post by: amdaylight on November 25, 2007, 05:26:48 PM
I am not sure how small the Bachmann Decoder is but the two Porters that I have done took a "Z" Scale decoder due to the small size and lack of room for them to fit. This by the way is not an easy conversion due to the size of the locomotive and getting to the motor and wiring. As to the Shay any small decoder with a  pine plug should fit. Remember that you don't have to use Bachmann's decoders with the Bachmann EZ Command System, you can use any DCC decoder that will fit. I used a Digatrax N scale decoder in my shays.

Andre :)
Title: Re: Retro fitting DCC on porters etc
Post by: laingsirish on November 26, 2007, 04:42:09 PM
Andre,
Thanks for the information, much appreciated!

Ian
Title: Re: Retro fitting DCC on porters etc
Post by: jpipkin on November 27, 2007, 07:32:13 PM
I have fit Bachmann decoders to several 0-4-0 Porters with the newer chassis shared with the 0-4-2.  I attached the decoder to the inside of the  cab side and removed a small area from the bottom of the water tank to clear the wires.  I replaced the head light bulbs with small surface mount LEDs.  The locomotives run flawlessly with DCC. 

Jim