I'm considered wiring my blocks up to DPDT switches to switch b/w DCC and DC. Now I understand that putting DC locomotives on DCC may damage them, but is the reverse true as well. If I have a DCC locomotive on the track and someone hits the wrong switch and DC flows through it, will it be adversely affected???
Using a DC locomotive on a DCC layout does not damage the motor. Leaving it on a powered DCC layout for extended periods of time with it not running may cause the motor to overheat though. So, run it on the DCC just don't let it sit there. To run a DCC decoder equiped locomotive on a DC powered layout requires that the decoder have analog conversion set to true (on). This is set into CV29 if I am not mistaken (don't have my manual with me). If I recall correctly, you add a value of 4 to total. I use a value of 22 Hex in most of my decoders which gives me 4 digit address, 128 speed steps, normal direction of travel and analog conversion Off. If I want analog conversion On I would enter a value of 26 Hex instead. Performance may not be as good running on DC. The decoder will need a minimum voltage before it can determine that it is running on DC. David
If you want to be able to switch between DC and DCC you would be wise to make sure that the whole layout switches, and cannot possibly be mixed. You don't want to switch by the block. If a loco bridged the rails between a DC block and a DCC block I think you would run a considerable risk of damaging your DCC system. Jeff
The suggestion is good. Don't mix DC and DCC if you don't have to. The damage might occur to the DC system though. Think about it. A DCC system typically puts 2.5-8 amps (depending on the system) out on the rails. A typical DC power pack isn't designed to handle more than 1-2 amps. David
