What's the difference between K-line and Lionel? What TMCC components do I need to operate a basic ovel? Can non-TMCC locos be converted to TMCC?
OK, that clears up some stuff--I am researching buying a Lionel set for Isaac, and didn't want to accidently buy 2-rail O, or someting that's not compatible with what I have. Now, for the original questions?
I'm no expert; but, I can tell you from my collection that my 2-Rail and 3-Rail cars run equally on the same track. The biggest difference is the 3-Rail cars take advantage of the middle rail while the 2-Rail couldn't care less if the middle rail is there or not. The 2-Rail runs with a very different (more real) coupler than the 3-Rail so you can't mix them together within the same train. Even though I have no layout (other then my simple X-Mas loop) for my O Gauge trains currently, I believe my M.T.H, Atlas, and Lionel 3-Rail cars would run nicely together since they have compatible couplers. I have a K-Line in my collection but I can't put my hands on it right now. My memory (which is iffy ) is that it didn't see to be the same scale so I don't think it would mix well with the others. Hope this helps some... :tb-wink: :tb-wink: :tb-wink:
I'll I can offer for that is: http://www.lionel.com/GettingStarted/LionelTechnology/TMCC.cfm [FONT=Times New Roman, Times, serif]TrainMaster Command Set [/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman, Times, serif]Everything you need to start running your TrainMaster locomotives can be found in this convenient package. The TrainMaster CAB-1 (6-12868) allows you to walk around your layout while controlling all of your Command Controlled locomotives and accessories. Also included is the TrainMaster Command Base (6-12911) which receives signals from the CAB-1 and communicates with your Command Controlled items. Only one Command Base is required per layout, regardless of how many power blocks you are controlling. It is the perfect way to start enjoying the benefits of Lionel’s revolutionary TrainMaster control system. (6-12969) $129.95[/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman, Times, serif] Lionel TMCC can be used in conjunction with any transformer capable of 18 volts continuous AC output![/FONT]
Well, a bit confusing as written above. "Standard Gauge" was produced before WWII. O Gauge became popular afterward. O Gauge and O Scale are two different animals. Generally when thinking of the former, it's three rail/tinplate. The latter being two rail, with more faithful to prototype appearance. Boxcab E50
Hemi-- I am doing the exact same research, although I'm starting from scratch. I sold off my N-scale stuff (heresy!) to get some 3-rail O scale for the kids. Here's what I learned. You can but the command center shown above in an earlier post for about $100 off ebay. This set, plus a basic powerpack (like the CW-80 that comes with some of the basic ovals) will get you DCC control. Next, you would need to buy an TMCC board for the old locos. You can google sites that have them. They are about $100-140 and require some soldering/wiring skills to install. I think the cheaper route may be to use the old locos as is, and buy a new TMCC loco. They will both run on the same system (just not at the same time), just use the old powerpack for the old loco. I'd look for Railsounds equipped locos rather than the earlier trainsounds ones. They are supposed to sound better and have controllable features.
Excellent--I looked in their catalog, but either missed it, or it wasn't in there. I likely just missed it. I guess I still need that big ol' ZW for a power supply!
K-Line used to be the low-cost alternative to Lionel. They were bought by Lionel and are now the low-cost line from Lionel. I have a beautiful K-Line Mikado that I like very much. TMCC is like DCC. It's next to useless on a basic oval. TMCC locos will run on standard AC transformers, but not all features will be available. Some non-TMCC locos can be converted. Here's one source: TMCC CONVERSIONS As to the differences between O scale and O gauge, those are muddy waters, just as the large scale stuff is. Standard Gauge is not Standard O. Standard O differentiates between the original O and O27 gauge which is weird. The gauge is the same but the rail height and diameter of the rail tubes are different. Here's an article I wrote about O scale: About O Scale And here's one on S scale that may also be of interest: About S Scale and S Gauge: A.C. Gilbert American Flyer and Others Best!
Excellent info, all, thanks! I know that it won't be used to its fullest potential, but I cannot access all the neat sound features on what I do have, using my trusty postwar ZW.
