To keep this post short, sweet and to the point, I am thinking about converting my BBW GP-9 to NMRA compliant DCC, due to the fact I already own a DCC system "NCE" for my ho scale equipment. For my venture into O scale, I am starting simple, with the amount of space I have available by building a timesaver switching puzzle. Since there will only be one loco, is it worth the effort and the expence to convert do DCC? My NCE powercab does not have enough amperage at 1.5 amps for O, so I would need the 5 amp SB5 command station/booster. With the cost of the SB5 and Decoder, im looking about 250ish. I am familiar with HO scale with the increased slow speed control gained, but I do not have experience with that in O. The power supply I currently own is the CW-80.
It can. WBB locos use dc can motors. The reversing board from the factory has a full wave bridge rectifier that takes the ac sine wave and filters it into dc.
Being as we know DCC is well worth doing, sounds to me as though you just need to decide if you have the budget available. As you have just the one engine, what sort of layout do you have, or is in the planning?
The layout will be a carpet central. I am now in the planning and gathering stage and as of now, my starting point will be the time saver. I guess 250 isn't all that much compared to the other costs of o scale. I'm still adjusting to the cost hike from ho.
I wonder if the slow speed you might attain would be actually enough to make the investment worth doing? Are you planning on multiple engines at some point in the future? If so, that would be a definite point in favor of spending the cash.
I know in half 0 forums, those questions come up....."I am starting to build my railroad. I will have one main line, one locomotive. What dcc system and decoder should I use?" The answer is none. You only have the one loco...wait until you have a whole lot more. Did I see yet your current/full slip readings?
While you may not need DCC for such a small layout, if you plan to grow then starting out with it is not a bad idea. If you want to do it an can afford it, then hey go for it! My own very small N-scale layout has DCC for this very reason. It is your wants vs your reach. I am however, far more concerned with this comment: Friends don't let friends build timesavers! http://www.housatonicrr.com/timesaver.htm
