E-Z command & Big Hauler 4-6-0

[hjmurray]

Is it possible to use a Bachmann E-Z Command DCC system with a Big Hauler 4-6-0? I searched this topic but nothing came up.

I have 2 4-6-0 locomotives on an indoor track I am building. (I understand the issues of using a DCC system on outdoor track.) I also believe the Bachmann decoders may not handle the amp draw of a Big Hauler so a 2 amp decoder is probably required.

I am wondering if the E-Z Command controller and power supply can handle 2 Big Haulers? I only have 8 cars for both locos. But of course these things tend to grow.

[Nathan]

You may want to look at some decoders designed for large scale.  A number of manufactures have them.  You will need to consider the booster for the sysstem.

I use my DCC system out doors at our club layout.  If the track will run good with DC it will run good with DCC.

Nathan

[Tom Lapointe]

Contrary to what you may have heard, DCC can be used outdoors!   (I've been running DCC on my garden line for 3 years now!).   Only cautions are you MUST use either brass or stainless-steel track, NOT Bachmann steel track!   I keep all the DCC control electronics (Power transformer, control station, 10-amp booster, wired throttle, & receiver for wireless throttle) in a large plastic file tote, just bring it out & connect the track feed to the railroad to it & AC power (through a ground-fault interrupter protected AC outlet) when I want to run.  My system is an NCE "PowerHouse Pro" 10-amp system; but I'm running much larger engines than "Annies" as well (2 - & 3-truck Shays, Heisler, Climax, "Connie", etc).

I'm using a Digitrax DG583S decoder in my "Annie"; since the "Annie" is a relatively light, single-motored loco, the DG583S handles it easily (I also use them in the twin-motored locos such as the Shays).

For an indoor layout running just 2 Annies, EZ Command should work as long as you use the 5-Amp booster.                                         Tom

[hjmurray]

Thank you for the guidance and suggestions.