is it possible to add a decoder to a bachmann ? Im still a neophyte in the dcc
world and would love to hear and see how it is done. I really love this engine
and I would love to be able to work on it. Has anyone done that or what? thanks.
ok, maybe im a little vague. It is the 4-8-4 santa fe. by bachmann. I love how it is now but would love to see it in dcc. just wondering what would it take and is it just as reliable? Now that I see the name on the list I guess it is a northern and not a Light mountain…what the heck do I know anyway. I am going to do a little research for myself and would love to hear from you guys. Thanks again.
bump
You make mention of two different locomotives in your post, a Mountain which is a 4-8-2, and a Northern which is a 4-8-4. Which model are you considering installing a decoder in? To save time, I’ll answer for both…
The Spectrum Mountain is virtually identical to the Consolidation they make which is by design DCC ready. You do have to do a little wiring, but a spot for a small decoder (Digitrax DZ143 or similar) is already in the frame for you. Also, the required resistor for the headlight is installed and works great with the decoder.
The Northern on the other hand is not DCC ready to my knowledge. I know that you can install a decoder in the tender and then hard wire that to the locomotive, but I haven’t personally tried to do this. I also know a few people who have installed the decoder in the locomotive, but you will need to modify the frame to some extent.
Hope this helps!
Jeff