Hello its me again... I don't know what I would do with out all the help from this forum. So I have another question... Can I run an Engine with DCC on a non-DCC track? and if so will it hurt the board or engine? just wondering how that works Thanks again Jack B
The short answer is yes to running and no to damage. The real answer is , it depends on the manufacturer of the decoder, and in some cases when the decoder was made. It also depends on the type of DC power supply you are using. Most decoders have the Analog mode, but it does not always work out well. If you have a pulsed DC supply, that has been known to be problematic, especially with Digitrax decoders made during their transition to lead free solder. TCS seems to also have a few issues with Pulsed DC power, but they all work fairly well with a pure DC supply. The one sort of universal caveat, The DCC locomotive on DC needs more power to get started than the DC locomotive would.
You can. I've noticed that when I do it though there is usually a constant learching action from the units as they go down the track. I've been told that it happens because of the pulse produced by most regular DC throttles even when not using the pulse feature. It usually seems to be worse on club layouts with high-output or homemade throttles and it is usually so bad I don't bother anymore and just bring the non-converted stuff. If you'll just be using a smaller throttle, give it a try and see how it goes.
What powerpak are you using? I know the MRC hooked up to the club's test track has a "pulse" and a non-pulse mode which is much better for them.
Right now it is hooked up to a cheep Brown bachmann pack But later it will have a different one that is now in my attic and I don not remember who makes it. I will check next time I am up there. This is just a temporary layout Jack B
