Decoder in Walthers EMC Doodlebug

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

My Walthers EMC Doodlebug just arrived and I was wondering whether anyone has converted one of these to DCC? After a struggle to get the shell off, it is obviously hard wired- no DCC plugs. The motor looks pretty cheap, but it runs very good and smooth on 00. Any recommendations about which decoder to use? Thanks - Nevin

2

Check the current draw of the motor when it is stalled and think about how many features you want to add e.g. interior lighting in the passenger compartment that you can turn on and off.

then pick a decoder that is small enough to fit in the space but meets all your criteria. The fact that the wiring is hard wired does not present a problem although it oes mean that you have unsolder the wires and connect them to the decoder. In that respect I would say get a decoder with loose leads rather than a plug as it will be easier to connect the wires together then,

neil

3

Hi

I use a TCS T-1 mounted just behind the motor using 30 strand flex wire. I also installed new headlight bulb 14v and a tail light. It works great with my lenz system, seems to be adequate at a low cost.

Jim

4

I recently installed a Digitrax DH123 decoder in my rail car. I installed it just above the motor, in the cab. It was a somewhat tight fit, but worked. I only hooked up the headlight.

5

Thanks to everyone for the advice. I like the TCS decoders so I think I will pick one up at Timonium next week and install it. The headlight is weak so I will replace it at the same time. - Nevin