Santa Fe 4-8-4 DCC conversion question

[akadave]

Hi, new to the forum and new to N guage trains. Just ordered the Bachman Empire Builder set and as I await its deliver I realized that DCC is the way to go (at least eventually). Rather than use the 4-8-4 that comes with the set as a display, can I make it DCC without too much trouble? Any good guides out there and finally, what decoder do I need?

Thanks

Dave

[Lt Jim]

You'll need a dcc system, but you can also pick up a 44 tonner or 70 tonner switcher, which has the decoder already installed.

[akadave]

Im wondering if I cant just change the tender to one thats DCC ready and put a decoder in that? Would simplify things although be more spendy.

[skipgear]

The Santa Fe northern can be converted but it requires a little rewiring. No need to change the tender, just add pickups to the existing trucks with a Richmond controls kit or make your own. You will need to isolate the motor from the frame, isolate the headlight, run some wires from the motor and light to the tender. Install the decoder in the tender.