Can this be done with out harming the engine? Anything I would need to know about this?
Thanks
Yes it can, as long as it has a dual mode decoder and the anolog function letting it run on DC has not been disabled. I think they operate a little different on DC.
If you have a dual mode decoder, yes. You’ll have to read the manual to find out if it does or not. Most new decoders are dual mode, as I understand it. Older locos may not be. If you do not have the information, take it to a DCC layout and you should be able to find out the type of decoder you have. Then find out if it is dual mode or not.
Good luck,
Richard
As posted, if the model has a dual mode decoder with ‘analog’ enabled, it will run on a DC layout. The starting voltage will be high as the decoder needs to ‘power up’, it then ‘sniffs’ the track to see of there is DC or DCC on the rails and shifts gears to operate on what it found. Be aware that many of the functions may not be available in DC mode.
Some older decoders are DCC only - Early Soundtraxx sound decoders were of this type, and using them on a DC layout was a sure way to destroy them. The current Soundtraxx Tsunami line of sound decoders are of the ‘dual mode’ type.
Jim
As Others have already stated Yes you can. It helps to have a fairly robust DC Transfomer,with at least a 1&1/2 amp.output and your track must be extremely clean. I do it all the time, for the Grand Kids, one main has sound, the other not. You will of course need cab control to be able to do that though.
Frank
Frank,My 1979 MRC Tech II can run dual mode locomotives…I bet a old Tyco power pack could run one.
I agree sound equipped locomotives needs cleaner track then nonsound locomotives.