Can you upgrade a Lionel diesel engin to rail sounds? If so where do you buy the boards?
By no means am I an expert on this but more then likely most any diesel can be upgraded, it’s a matter of cost. There are several sources for this, lionel itself and TAS which will not only supply the parts but can also do the installation if you don’t feel comfortable doig it yourself. Do you have a local hobby shop that can be of any help?
I highly recommend DIgital Dynamics( www.digitdynam.com ) as a suplier for Railsounds upgrades.
Be sure to mention that you aren’t doing command control as well, just Railsounds.
The Railsounds themselves are actually very easy to install. The most difficult part is locating the speaker, which really isn’t even that difficult. It doesn’t require the level of cutting and soldering that TMCC upgrade can require.
I disagree! I suggest getting expert advice if you are the slightest bit unsure. There’s more to it than you think.
While Ben certainly has his faults, mainly a TMCC fanatic[:D], could you get a better expert opinion on this matter? Maybe, but I’m sure Ben knows what he’s talking about here.
Sorry Rod MTH, but I would rather get my information from a trained and authorized Lionel service technician.
pax[C):-)]
Jwalk
I have put boards in Williams and K-Line engines from TAS (Train America Studios, Canfield, Ohio), but if you are uncomfortable with wiring and electronics I would suggest calling Davis Electronics in Milford, Ohio a Lionel Service Center with electrical engineering credentials and tell them what you want to do and see if they can install something from Lionel suitable for you. Of course, TAS will install boards for you too, but they would be TAS boards. I have never dealt with Digital Dynamics, but a phone call or a website search probably would give you the answer.
Just remember sound quality has many variables not fully dependent on the sound board and speaker installed. My loco’s sounds are really good partly due to the shape of the ceiling in the garage room.
I hope this helps you.