Is it possible to use a DC locomotive on my new layout, which will be DCC for a static display?
I have a ton of nicely detailed and weathered DC locomotives that I just can’t see spending a lot of money converting over just now but would still like to use them in some capacity such as on a siding or in my engine servicing facility etc. Would I have to switch of power to that section of track etc? I am not 100% on weather the DC locomotives would actually run or not or would damage occur?
If you let them sit for long periods of time, the motor will get damaged.
If you want them to be ‘static’, then remove the leads to the motor.
David B
Quicker and easier answer, for an engine terminal ready line - isolate the tracks they will be sitting on and either leave them unpowered or power them through on-off switches. It isn’t necessary to modify a locomotive if there’s no power to the motor.
Being able to isolate and de-power sections of rail has other advantages, relating to signal systems, troubleshooting faults and working around problems.
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
Well that was the easiest way I thought of doing it. One of the advantages I liked about going to DCC was not having to run blocks persay as you do with DC but isolating a few select sidings will be a piece of cake. lord kows I have a few million insulated rail joiners and mini toggel switches left over. It’s a matter of economics, eventually I would love to convet all my locomotives to DCC but I have an Italian bank account, “myfunsalow” so that isn’t going to happend real quick.
Thanks
Even simpler, paint the top of rail, non conductive, no power. When you want it back to normal, scrape the paint off.