I have some several ho locos that I would like to convert to DCC. Can anyone recommend a good book/manual that outlines the key steps in converting to DCC particularly for converting older locos that do not have any interfaces already built in. I saw some books on Amazon but not sure which book is the best. Appreciate any recommendations from the forum
greg
I recemmend the book DCC made easy from Kalmbach books. It tells you all about how DCC works and even had near the end a little tutorial on how to convery an old Athearn BB loco. The conversion process is very similar to many other older locos out there. good luck!!
Greg,
Here’s a link that can be helpful. It seems complicated at first but there’s a lot of good info here (and elsewhere on the site).
http://www.wiringfordcc.com/locos.htm#a1
The MR site used to have some diagram on adding decoders to “non-dcc-ready” locos.
thanks for the feedback
I will look into both the book and the link.
I’ll let you know what I find useful
In my mind the ONLY source you need on DCC including decoder installations is www.tonystrains.com
He has a PDF file that can be downloaded showing step by step instructions on installing decoders in several mfr’s locomotives.
In addition to the other excellent suggestions, there is some DCC installation info right here on trains.com. Go to http://www.trains.com/maghomepage/maghomepage.asp?idMagazine=3
and on the left-hand side of the page, under “Modeling”, click on “Controls & electrical”
HTH,
Steve
One comment on the conversion, if you have a mix of several manufacturers and old equipment, I would call Tony’s Train Exchange. I made the decision several years ago to do what you are contemplating. I called Tony’s, they walked me through the decoder types, made recommendations based on my expectations, and I ended up very happy with the results.
The links given are good, also Google for DCC.