Guys I did not realize this site had some members that would offered so many non-contributing comments. I sure hope what you posted made your day. I just ate ice cream and laughed while reading..........

Rookie

I really do appreciate all this feedback on this subject. You guys are just awesome. I'll be able to take care of my needs I believe based on all your inputs.

Have a wonderful day,
Rookie

I just purchased a Bachmann HO CSX #8833 Dark Future EMD SD40-2 Diesel from Amazon which is described with DCC Control for direction, speed and lighting. However I cannot get it to respond to the programing with the Bachmann DCC Ez Controller.

It does not move when initially on position 3 but the small noise it makes stops when I hold button 3, hold the stop button and then release. I then try to address it with button 4, the small sound returns but it will not move in either direction.

Any ideas on what I should do now?
Rookie

Jim, thanks so much for this information. I found video on YouTube that show exactly what you describe and will use this for my future planning.

Appreciate all the help,
Rookie

I've noticed the wheels on my steam engine turning faster and even slipping when going up a small incline. I took a towel and wiped the tracks to find grease makes on the towel and lots of it. What is the sources of this oil/grease? Can the engine be leaking oil? What's the best way to really clean the wheels & tracks?

I appreciate the help,
Rookie

Guys, thanks very much. It sounds like this is doable so I'll do some more thinking/exploring and might be getting back to you.

Thanks very much,
Rookie

Joe, I do not have any turnouts on these two loops and that's why I want to put in a crossover on opposite sides. I just assumed the DCC power supply would run the crossovers. But it sounds like the installation of the crossovers is way to difficult for me to consider.

Thanks for you help,
Rookie

I have two track loops each about 7' x 7'. I run analog train on the inner and a DCC on the outer loop. If I put in 2 crossover so I can run the trains on either track, will I be able to use the Bachmann DCC controller to power both rail loops and trains. All the engines are Bachmann as well as the tracks. Will probably add another Bachmann DCC engine at some points.

Thanks for the help,
Rookie

Thanks for you help. i've ordered the Virginian and it'll b where next week. Jack the coupler height issue you share is great. I'll figure it out now with your help.

Enjoy you Labor Day weekend,
Rookie

I'm thinking about adding a dcc engine to my ho layout and considering the diesel GSD70ACe DCC SoundTraxx Virginian 6605. Questions:
1. where can I find the specifications on this engine?
2. do you have any opinions on how good this product is?
3. where can I find a video that explains how to setup a Bachmann DCC controller and engine including the sound operation?

Your help is much appreciated,
Rookie Branam

Where can I get tape to use of street yellow/white lane markings? Having trouble finding them on the internet.

Thanks,
Rookie

Is it acceptable to use unsheathed wiring for a 12v DC bus for all my many lights? That away I could just tack the light wires to the buss wires with minimal work. The bus would be under a piece of 1/4" plywood and not exposed.

Thanks,
Rookie

It is obvious now that the speed controller converts the ac from the transformer to dc for the trains. I'll be looking at your all's recommendations for better controllers.

Thanks,
Rookie

Doneldon, I appreciate the quick feedback and the instruction on the definition of a transformer. All three of the Bachmann controllers I got have a plug in unit that says Hobby Transformer (ac16v 1000ma 16va) - two came with new trains I bought and the third I bought from Amazon to run a used train I bought. All three worked just fine for over a month - with 2 new engines and 2 used engines.

So I conclude these trains run on AC power - is that right? I thought they were DC powered - thinking the wall plug-in converted ac to dc to run the trains.

I guess it doesn't make any difference - one of them just quit working and I'll have Bachamnn replace it under warranty.

That's a new engine and new transformer that failed in less than two months. Is Bachmann equipment that unreliable?

Thanks,
Rookie

I'm not having too much luck with Bachmann products. Two weeks ago the engine on the Durango & Silverton that I bought for Christmas for my grandsons just stopped running. Its at Bachmann for repair. Today one of the  transformer bit the dust while my grandson and I were playing with trains (I bought two new ones for Christmas and two used ones - all four Bachmann).

So where do I get another transformer (16vac - 1000ma)? Can I get one locally. This sure is getting old.

Thanks for your help,
Rookie