DCC loco on DC??

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Hi all-

I can get a Bachmann (yeah-I know it’s a B-mann) (and yes-its cheap- so is my budget) diesel that is no-sound DCC equiped chea-er-ah-inexpensively. I do not have DCC yet. I would like someday to have it.

My question is can I just unplug the decoder and run it on DC? Then when I get DCC (in the next century ) just plug it back in and run it on DCC?

Is it that easy or not? The reason I’m entertaining it is for that reason. Run it on DC now and DCC later.

Thanks to all who respond and Happy 4th of July!

Galaxy

2

The answer to your question depends on a couple of factors. Is this a factory-equipped Bachmann engine with a dual-mode decoder that is made to run on either DC or DCC, or is it an add-in decoder that someone has installed. If it’s factory equipped, it may run OK on DC without doing anything. If it’s an add-in decoder that is not dual-mode, if you take the decoder out the engine will not run unless you replace the decoder with a jumper plug. You need to determine which type of decoder it has in it.

3

Sorry cacole, I should have specified. It’s new, from the factory. Specs:

Bachmann HO RTR GP 35 w/DCC

“With this easy to use and affordable locomotive, you can digitally control speed, lighting, and direction. Compatible with all NMRA-compliant DCC systems.”

Thanks

4

Bachmann factory DC/DCC locos have a circuit board that allows them to run either. They do not have a decoder, it is all built into the circuit board

5

Yes, they do have a decoder and it is the circuit board.

6

No need to disconnect anything. I have one of the Bachmann GP35’s and I assure you, it will run just fine on DC as is.

7

The question was asked directly to Bachmann if the “decoder is removable and usable in another loco, and if it is replaceable and the Bachmann reply was " they do not have a decoder , it is built into the circuit board”!