I am in the process of building a new layout which will have DCC and want to be able to run my old post WW2 Fleischmann HO trains with it. I expect troubles but has anyone tried this or can you run DC and DCC trains on the same layout. Any input is welcome. Regards Ross
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Most, but not all, DCC systems can run one DC train at a time along with the DCC trains.
You will eventually want to install decoders in the DC trains.
I rarely run a DC loco with a DCC loco, but it can be done…the DC loco will heat up faster, will run hotter and make growling noises at idle. It’s sure not something I do or would recommend for long periods of time.
Older Fleischmann locos can be really hard to install DCC in.
It is due to the fact that they have live chassis and it is hard to isolate the poles on the motor, BUT it can be done!
I have done a few myself, if you use a multimeter to check your work it´s fine.
Good luck.
Here is an overview what may can be done to convert an old Fleischmann loco to digital: http://www.modellbahn-online.de/inhalt/digitalsteuerung_flm_motorschilder.php?rubrik=digitalsteuerung
here step by step (pictures!) http://www.modellbahn-online.de/inhalt/digitalsteuerung_umbau_von_alten_flm_motorschildern.php?rubrik=digitalsteuerung
again an overview of the old motor parts which may need insulating http://www.hp-pfeiffer.de/digi_umbau1/fleischmann_motorschilde_uebersicht01/fleischmann-motorschilde01.jpg
left column: problem. see 2nd link (or stay DC on those)
center: cut a prepared bridge (simple to do)
right: ready to go, no changes
Thanks for the links, and advice. It looks like a lot of work , also what happens to the car lights? rb
If I remember right, they have 14v bulbs in them so they should work without any changes. Most DCC systems put about 14-16v on the track. If the lights a very bright you might have to change the bulbs to higher voltage ones or put resistors in each car.
The advantage of DCC is that light will always be at a constant brightness.
The disadvantage of DCC is they’ll always be on unless you put switches in every car or park them on a track that can be switched off.