Hi

I took the plunge and have now bought a Bachmann EZ Dynamis Controller 36-505 and booster amp 36-520 (5 amps) for my two large scale loco's listed above. Both were sold to me as DCC compatible, but I need advice as which decoders I need i.e. ones that allow smooth drive operation and are easy to fit into my loco's - preferably plug in. I would like sound as well, but believe these are after market accessories e.g. Tsunami? What are the Bachmann decoders like? By the way, I have plently of LGB brass track.

Can anyone give me some help? As you will realise, I'm not exactly an expert - in fact, am a complete novice.

Dave R

I live in the UK, but despite my best attempts to get a definitive response here, need some help.

I have been given a Bachmann Spectrum 4-4-0 and a Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-2 K27, but no instruction booklets, controllers or transformers. Both run on G-Gauge (I have quite a bit of LGB brass track), come with tenders and are DCC compatible. My problem is that I am completely new to model trains and no NOTHING about controllers.

I was wondering about a wireless digital controller? I am looking for a mid-range set-up and quite like the look of the Bachmann EZ Dynamis digital controller. The 36-505 looks like it would suit i.e. it is 2.5 amps and seems to come with a transformer, although I can't see the connecting clips.

My local retailer has suggested that I should establish both the operating current draw and the stall current for each of the above trains, i.e. how much current is the loco using when being operated at full throttle but the wheels aren't turning? Does anyone know these figures?

Does anyone have any views about the Dynamis controller? Would it work with my trains (I don't see why it shouldn't)? What are its limitations? And, importantly, what modifications or additional equipment- if any - would I need to make to my trains to ensure compatibility? If not the Dynamis, can anyone recommend an alternative?

Thanks
Dave R

I received a Bachmann model loco for Christmas, but with no info, brochure or instructions, I need help.

It is a G-gauge, with the number 6 prominently displayed. On the shield on the side, it says "Baldwin Locomotive Works, Pennsylvania" and carries the number 3972 and year 1876. The tender is inscribed B. & L. R.R. The train itself has 4 large main wheels (2 either side) and the 4 "steering" wheels in front. It is possibly a "Spectrum" unit as it was made in China. The boiler is blue. It was sold as a G scale American 4-4-0 locomotive. As far as I understand - which is very little - it is DCC compatible.

Basically, can anyone tell me more about this train? When was it manufactured? Is it still available? Is it worth anything? I'd love to know its history e.g. where did it operate etc. More importantly, I need an instruction/service manual, a controller and a transformer (I live in the UK which runs on 240 volts). Where can I get these?

As you will gather, I've no experience or knowledge of these trains and doubtless will be returning to this forum many times over. To anyone reading this, I hope you had a great Xmas and have fantastic New Year!

Dave R