(N-scale) LL GP-18/20/38-2 + DCC = ?????

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I’m planning to pick up a Digitrax Zephyr system this weekend. In my current stable (N-scale) are one LifeLike GP-38-2, two LL GP-18, and one GP-20 coming (from their current Winter sale). All of these are not their P2K line and I paid about $20 each. Yes, not exactly Atlases or Katos but these are used my 3 year old (yes! you should see him handle the throttle - better than me!).

Anyway, I’ve read on many forums that LL (non-P2K) and DCC don’t mix, but why? No one has ever stated why they don’t mix? Is it lack of interior space? Tricky electricals? What is it?

I’m an engineer with mean soldering and mechanical skills. Is it feasible for me to DCC the above locos by getting my Dremel out or will I be wasting my time?

Thanks for your input!

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i haven’t heard anything about lifelike being incompatable with dcc. i have some LL gp 20’s and they run very well on dc. i believe the problem is fitting the decoders into them. there is a company called aztec that will take your locomotive frames and mill a space for the decoder and supply you with detailed installation instructions. you have to disassemble the engines and send the motor frames to them. it’s relativly cheap $10 per unit unless you have many locos. check aztectrains.com. some locos may need z scale decoders to fit.