I have the Kadee catalog which can be really helpful.  You can download a digital version here: 

Kadee Digital Catalog

I have found PDF Page 7 onwards particularly helpful.

Here is the link to the Kadee gear boxes:

Kadee gear boxes

and the couplers I really like (#148 instead of #5 because it is simpler)...although the prices have really gone up!  Wowzers!  Kadee #148, 50 pairs.

I strongly recommend getting a coupler height gauge.  It is very useful to keep the height correct and the train connected when going up or down grades. 

Kadee also has a coupler conversion resource: Kadee Coupler Conversion

IF you want to keep using the truck mounted system (we call them Talgo trucks - I think), Kadee has Talgo Truck adapters on their site.


Let us know how it goes!

I did what you want to do a bit ago for a Christmas tree layout. 

I isolated each section with two plastic rail joiners.  I also used just one power supply (at first) using the Atlas #0220 controller.  I later changed it to use the Atlas #0215.  It worked out pretty well. 

I did that because there was a higher risk of shorting out (think tinsel, foil wrapping, cat, dog, etc.) and did not want to risk my DCC locomotives.  DC locomotives are more robust against shorts, I think.  If there is a short, it just stops working rather than burn up your decoder.  Of course, that is only in my limited opinion.

Now it is 

Wonderful idea.  I love how you got power up to the shell using the brass tabs.  I have installed LEDs into some of my older shells and the disconnect is a pain when I remove the shell.  May I steal your ideas please? 

I actually built my DCC command module using a clone Arduino Uno Rev 3 board, a clone Arduino Motor Shield, and Raspberry Pi 4.  I bought the hardware off Amazon and Adafruit, software was off Aduino, Raspberry, and JMRI (Controller software).  There are a few videos you can use for this.

I saw this thing on YouTube and thought "Why not?"  It works well.  I am able to program my locomotives, etc.  I have not added control to my switches yet.

The whole thing cost me a total of about $100....and I get to use the Raspberry Pi for other things as well 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aa18c0Do1l8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQogIIad-rk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtaZ1_L91Bg

Good luck and have fun!