I am planning on creating a layout that will allow me to run both my Marklin and 2-rail trains over the same track. I intend to create a 3-rail layout(digital) and convert my 2-rail locomotives and rolling stock to 3-rail(this seems easier and cheaper than the other way around, plus I like not having to account for polarity reversals). Converting the rolling stock seems to be as straight forward as replacing the wheelsets with conducting versions. Conceptually converting the engines seems straight forward as well: change wheel pickups to gnd only, add slider pickup, optionally make wheelsets conductive. Since the layout will be digital there should be no power incompatibilities(right??). Adding the slider is my only real sticking point. On the steam engines, there appears to be enough clearance to easily add a Marklin style slider. On the diesels, not so easy. The clearance under the trucks seems to be less than half of what would be required to add a slider. Has anyone performed this type of conversion and would you be willing to share some information? I have read up on some O conversions but, they do not seem to be space limited.
My only question is can you get Marklin Digital decoders for the converted locos?
James
I was planning on keeping the converted locos NMRA DCC. There are controllers available that will talk to Marklin and DCC targets on the same track(http://www.rjftrains.com/intellibox/intellibox.htm). Even at $500 it’s cheaper than shelling out the $100+ for the Marklin decoders.
I see. I did not know that was possible.
James
I’m a bit late on this, but is there any reason to make your 2-rail wheelsets conductive? Do they not operate through the Maerklin turnouts? Do you need them for special electrical functions?