Great video again Charlie and my decoder experience says that Hornby decoder a are ok, but can't tolerate abuse I have two locks fitted with them and they work well, but I got wired a digitrax I'm pretty sure it's called 8 pin into a 0-4-0 but just left on the track idol it tends to get hot this decoder already burnt out one of my train motors but thankfully it does work with this 0-4-0. But thanks for the video no worries to wait it's worth it anyway catch you in the next one!! 😀😀😀😃😃😄🙂
Chadwick Model Railway thanks my layout is going good just got some static grass and applicator for my birthday with two new sound locos and 15 carriages
Hiya Charlie, well I'm two years on you, just made 62 lol... I love your videos both for content and production values, I used to work in film/tv power and lighting, too many years doing shows like The Clothes Show... I'm retired ish now due to health so on a fixed limited income but if I win the Euro... I'd love to get into building layouts but not much into running. I think it's the combination of tec with artistic that appeals. Your videos with their combination of common sense and hi-tec information are the best around, thank you for all that you do.
Hi Charlie. Due to turn 40 soon and have been seriously considering starting a model in the loft. Your videos are sort of ebbing me towards one. I do like the fold down flap for the electrics, strange how ideas like that tend to come more with age. Older and wiser I suppose. Great videos. 👍
Great video Charlie. Very interested to find out more about the decoders, those videos will certainly be very helpful for those of us who aren’t so well versed in the arts of DCC. Regards, MR.
Hi Charlie, love your videos, very inspirational and informative, even to an N gauger, I'm in the process of stripping down my almost finished layout to build a larger one and taking all this information up like a sponge, look forward to every Friday now. I never dared touch CV's until last week, but after your video I took the plunge and it took me a day to get what I wanted from my first loco, but the satisfaction of doing it was incredible, many thanks..
Excellent as always. I’m really looking forward to seeing how to wire up the double slip. I’m still loose laying track until I’m satisfied that it’s right, but it includes 2 double slips at the station throat to service the bay platforms with the same objective as you. Keep these videos coming. They’re invaluable and so timely! Brian.
Hi Brian, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Im sorry but it’s a diamond crossing and not a double slip that I’m installing. But double slips are easy. The frog wires connect to the point motors on the other end. And, if you get a short it’s the feeds to the frog on the point motors that are the wrong way around. Are you using slow action or solenoid point motors? Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I'm following your example on most things, and going for Tortoise, particularly after I found a video that played the sound of Tortoise v. Cobalt, and as you say in one video, the volume from a Cobalt is much greater than the Tortoise. [They're not ordered yet. I'm still waiting for my second double slip from the local model shop.]
I had the same sort of issue. A train could cross from the outer track to the inner, but could not cross from the inner to the outer without backing through the turnouts. Space limitations (darn them, anyway!) prevented me from installing another pair of turnouts to permit forward transit from inner to outer. The solution was provided by a modeler who used 4 Atlas turnouts and a 19 degree crossing to make a double crossover. Using them stock gives a track spacing of 3" on center. Using some creative "surgery" I was able to trim the turnouts and crossing to provide a spacing of 2-1/16". Trains will transit from either track to the other, both forwards and backwards, with no issues at all. The key is just taking your time and planning it out well. Your crossing will provide a lot of operational interest, Charlie. Don't be too surprised if, in the future, you tear out more track to install MORE crossings! These things have a way of taking over. Sort of like the old children's story about the camel who only wanted his nose in the tent to keep it warm..........
Thanks Flyboy, you have made some good points. I have the exit sorted (in my mind anyway). It just requires some bi/directional signalling. Regards Charlie
Hola from sunny Spain Charlie 😊 Great little update and I had the same problem laying track then found out it didn’t work 🙄 I’ve made a new track plan for my revised layout and I’m still messing it about!! But it’s all good fun 😆Cheers once again Stevie.
Hi Stevie, get back in the sunshine and stop mucking about on UA-cam! I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it and good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Good video Charlie, I had a similar problem with my layout regarding access but its good to see you can get it sorted out with a bit of work. Regards Michael
Hi charlie seen your video on dcc decoders I use hornby standard 8 pin dcc decoders and also I have 6 tts sound chip decoders 3 steam and 3 diesel locomotives 1 of the steam locomotives my 4MT has a sugar cube speaker in drivers and firemans cab only because the tts speaker was to large but I think the tts sound is not a bad sound quality to say they are only a fraction of the cost of the v5 loksound equivalent which I could purchase from Olivias trains not far from me great video about adding a diamond point to accommodate trains back to town keep safe Kev
Hi, Awesome Video. Greetings from N SW Australia. Up till now I have been running G scale on Lenz DCC. Recently I got diagnosed as Terminally Ill, so I've sold most of the G scale, only have a few Locos left. Being on a Pension now, I';ve always bought other peoples cock ups and this enabled me to strip down and rework with various makes of Decoders. I've started buying ON30. I don't have room indoors, I live in a Yurt, again Homemade. I'm in a glorified Carport. I will run ON30 in the garden( raised 2ft high), with 2 return loops and 3 stations. The stations will all be undercover, tho the middle station point work will be spring loaded, and not controlled by DCC The overall length of the line will be around 170ft. I've used and will continue to use many different makes of Decoder. Actually there's a guy down in Vic, who makes Loco decoders cheap. He also does Point Decoders, using servos. I know there is the saying you get what you pay for, but I cannot justify spending on decoders that cost sometimes several times more cost than that of the Loco. I still have a few G scale locos where the electronics I've fitted has cost way more than the price I paid for the Loco, which in many cases I bought as dismantled. One of the biggest joys I have with DCC is Sound equipped Locos. I'm not a rivet counter, so I 'm not fussed if a Loco has sound from another Class, provided it suits the Loco and the Chuff is Synchronised as realistically as Possible. I have previously only bought separate Movement and Sound decoders. Most of the Movement Decoders that I have, will be sold as apart from the Old MRC 321s the rest are all too big to consider using. Those 321s are no longer produced. I was lucky enough to buy a few when the price was right. The rest like 5 series Digitrax are just way too big. Sound Decoders, I have mostly Soundtraxx. I bought most of these as the original Soundtraxx DSX Boards ( sound only) which for the money are unbelievable quality. They still come up on Ebay, tho I've got a few. I also have Digitrax, Sound bugs etc. They are also awesome. - Most of the Sound boards I have are clearly for USA outline. I have bought a few of the Sound on Board Bachmann ON30 locos, but they generally need CVs Tweeked a bit. Tho the bulk of ON30 is USA outline, I am modifying it to be a bit more Australian. However I have also started buying parts to make up a Hartz Bahn 2-10-2, that's my version of "Train Porn". I expect that decoder will cost a small fortune. Pete
Hi Peter, Wow, what a response. Clearly you have forgotten more about DCC decoders than I have ever known. I’m sure that the information you have provided will be useful in my forthcoming video. Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Thank you. Thank you too for you excellent videos,, I have subscribed. Of all those I have seen you are clearly very professional in your videos carefully planning and your wiring is exceptional. I'm 55. I grew up with Hornby Analogue. I've journeyed from my old Hornby, through Z, N and G for about the last 15 years. I started G in Analogue, and then discovered the joys of DCC. Even know I've been asked to return a DCC loco back to Analogue. To be honest, I think it's like putting a square wheel back on.. Those of US, like you and me, didn't grow up with Technology. When I was a Kid I didn't have a Calculator I had a Slide Rule.. It was only after getting my first PC that I started to learn about digital technology. That was about 15 years ago, when I first came to Australia. I'm originally from Basingstoke, North Hampshire.. I think it's fare to say that these days most older people look at this relatively new digital technology as being too complicated to use when in actual fact it is easy to use and makes Model railway life a lot simpler. I think it's the programming side that puts people off, and perhaps some of the prices for digital equipment. At first I was timid about programming, but once you've done it a few times it becomes second nature. Once you have grasped the basics a whole new world of Control options become achievable easily. As with the G scale, I use a Lenz XPA, which enables me to use a cordless house phone system, providing multiple cordless controllers. I also have the PC link, and Wifi for Smart Phone users. I'm currently playing with miniature HD streaming cameras, which I will place in the cab of locos, so that I can drive from my PC. They will also derive their power from the track. I'm going to have an On Board driving experience, from PC or Smart phone. Point Control is with the Peco Smart system linked in. I will still convert some Loco's over to DCC( Home Projects) but these days most Manufacturers are starting to either produce DCC ready, or DCC on Board. I believe that DCC will become the standard, and I believe it is better to embrace the Technology and make it work for you. Now with more plug and play connections it has become easy for anyone to fit DCC. Not all decoders have to cost. You pay your money and you make your choice. I have not tried one yet, I think I might give one a go www.ebay.com.au/itm/DCC-Decoder-turn-your-DC-loco-into-DCC-with-this-easy-to-fit-module/123226068297?hash=item1cb0d89549:g:tnkAAOSwyARbOkbp It's winter down here now, unlike the UK, most days I'm in shorts and vest. The base should be completed within the next 3 weeks. I live in my man cave and the house is about 150ft away. Currently my evenings are spent soldering Jumper Wires etc. Lots and lots to go. The track will be separated into 2 blocks, running at 13V 5amps. As rain is a problem in the UK it isn't here. We are experiencing a drought. In this last year I have only cut the yard grass twice. Once spring comes, it will be a dust bowl here. The outdoor sections of track won't be in Direct sunlight. Tho our summer temps get into the high 40sC. I guess it'll be summer evening running. I plan to be running by 1st November. I write too much because I have time on my hands. Too much time. Now time has become somewhat more precious I figured I put my experiences up, and if they are of use to you or anybody else then I am happy. Pete.
Hi Pete, Well it appears that I have a few years on you. I’m 60 next month. Still, I can always treat myself to a new sound loco! Thanks for sharing so many of your personal experiences. I grew up in Swindon and used to spot around 1970/1974. I’ve finished next week’s video which is on DCC sound speakers. I’m off to York next week for my birthday with a trip on the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway. Take care, regards Charlie
Hi Charlie. I'd suggest installing a trailing crossover to the left-0hand side of the station, where the five lines have merged into two. The shuttle train could then arrive into either of the far platforms, reverse and use the crossover to gain access to the inner main line.
Hi Stephen, An interesting option but I think I will go with the diamond crossing as it adds more visual interest. Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Hello again Charlie. Just seen a post about burning out a decoder and thought I had better share a little story. A friend and I have designed and built some very small 'super-cap stay-alives'. The idea was that I wanted to fit a good stay-alive into a Class 08 where there was almost no room available, we squeezed our unit under the motor. That is the background. However, as space was at such a premium I decided on the smalles available Zimo sound decoder. I was small and therefore would only tolerate about 1/2 amp. That was fine until during modifications to the 08 I experienced a motor stall which blew a capacitur on the decoder. Becayse the decoder had come from Digitrains that was noy a problem, a new replace ment for £18 arrived within a day, but the cause of the problem was at that time not known and the first suspect was a new version of the 'stay-alive. Howver, a call to Digitrains and a conversation with Jeremy solved the issue. When the 08 stalled (caused by my bad quartering) the motor was drawing about one and a half amps. Far too much for the tiny decoder, a normal sized Zimo would have coped but would not have fitted inside the non-DCC ready 08. So the moral of this story is that choose your decoder carefully and make certain that it can handle a stalled motor unless you want to hand over another £18 and have a loco un-available for 48 hours.
Hi Bruce, I too have had an interesting experience with Hornby’s 08. Please have a look through my back catalogue for “Improving Hornby’s 08”. There are some scary similarities. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, DCC sound decoders are something that I decided to fit to al my steam and diesel locs, around 100 at this point in time. As this was always going to be a significant purchase I spent many month of research starting with what make of DCC decoder. As you will be aware there are many cheap decoders out there and a few medium priced ones and then again a small number of premium decoders. Well as they always say 'you pays your money and you take your pick'. Well I tested decoders from Hattons, Bachmann, Lenz and Zimo, all on the same loco. The Bachmann decoders were rejected almost imediately as the loco's slow speed performance was very bad, hatton's were better but not great. I then tried Lenz and was very pleasantly surprised with the overall performance. At this point I thought that I was going to standardise on Lenz, they were pricy but they performed so well. Before I made a final decision I bought a SLW Class 24 with a Zimo sound decoder and was imediately hooked on both sound and the superb running qualities of the Zimo decoder, it was totally in a class of its own, even putting the Lenz decoder to shame. Just before buying the SLW 24 I had ordered a class 08 shunter with legobiffoman sound. I was not impressed with the retailer who is well know for being rude and certainly takes his time getting product to his clients. I thought that the Legobiffoman sound file was also not up to scratch. I still have it and it is about to be the subject of some intensive fiddling with the CVs to try and get it to perform realistically. Oh by the way the sound chip for the 08 was around £95. It was at this point that I contacted Digitrains in Lincoln and found them to be not only very knowledgeble but great people to deal with. First off I purchased a very small Zimo sound decoder and their own sound file for the Class 08. The cost was under £100, so almost the same as the Legobiffomann offering. Well to say that they were as different as chalk and cheese is an understatement. The Zimo chip has some suberb features not found on any other chip including electronic flywheel and easy connection to a 'Stay-Alive' system. Both very important on a small 0-6-0 loco that spends most of its time at slow speed over numerous points. I have a piece of test track which is kept in a filthy state just to test decoders and 'stay-alives'. The Legobiffomann 08 just stalled and could not cope with the state of the track. However the Digitrains Zimo with no 'stay-alive' managed the test track with only minor hesitation. I then installed a very simple 1000uF capacitor to the on chip circuitry and repeated the test. This time the 08 could crawl the entire length at speed setting 1 of 128 without an hesitation or break in sound. The capacitor was sufficient to power the Zimo's built-in electronic flywheel and habdle the dirty track. That was the proof that I needed to install Digitrains Zimo sound decoders in all my locos. Both 08s are Hornby based and by the way the SLW Class 24 which is fitted with a supercap 'stay-alive' also handled the test track without a problem at speed 1 (it took about 10 minutes to travel the 1 meter section, that is how slow it could go). I have now fitted a variety of three Zimmo sound decoders to about 3/4 of the fleet and the results are suberb. The Zimo decoder without sound is about the same price as the Lenz decoders but with sound it is the same as all the major vendors, but the Digitrains sound file has features that are unique and really make the whole system work for real. I am a total fan of the braking system which is operated as the full scale loco would be operated complete with all the appropriate sounds an all for under £100. Initially I had a few problems with the decoder installation, nothing to do with the decoder or how it worked but to do with getting a decoder, a 'stay-alive', a supercap and a speaker in a very small area. The help and assistance I got from Digitrains was unbelievable, Jeremy (the owner) gave me lots of advice, including some of his many 'tricks-of-the-trade' including lots of encouragement. Possibly the best customer service I have ever experienced. So in conclusion, I found that any DCC sound decoder worth its salt is about the same price, but the features and performace of the Dihitrains Zimo decoders and their sound file are in an entirely different league. I lent a loco to a freind who has all Lenz DCC system and he fell in love with the Zimo and is now converting from Lenz to Zimo. There are so many features to the Zimo decoder that I have, over the last 18 months, barely scratched the surface. Oh, by the way they come with already set up with Digitrains optimised CV's which I have not had to fiddle with. Try a Zimo, but beware, you will become hooked and afterwards nothing else will do. They really are that good. As for Digitrains, well what else can I say other than it is a pleasure to spend my money there and fell that I am an appreciated client. Sorry for the long comment but I am a true convert to Zimo and Digitrains. Have a good one and stay frosty. Love your videos, keep them coming, even I learn something everytime.
Hi Bruce, wow what a reply. Yours is the first reply that really states a difference between ESU and Zimo. I understand your view of a certain individual and totally agree. I wonder if this has tainted your view of ESU V4. I’d love to buy you s cuppa and discuss this further. Perhaps you go the shows such as Warley. I hope to put out a video on DCC Decoders at the end of the month on a league table basis. Thanks for your help. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I use various decoders which have all proved good. I use Digitrax both direct plug and also on wired looms, ESU Lokpilot V4, and have tried DCC concepts Zen. Had a couple of failed Zens and also a Hornby chip or two fail so tend to go Digitrax. Really like the ESU's but they are a tad expensive. Have found the main thing to bear in mind is the number of functions you want and the room you have inside your loco. I run both British and American so my requirements are quite broad. Just today chipped three class 55 diesels, one Princess Coronation, a class 20 and tried to chip a 9 f but couldn't get the chip in the body as it was too wide! Will get a z sized chip from digitrax as there is very little room. I like the direct plug chips ie no wires as they are much neater with width being the main issue sometimes. Hope this helps. Stephen.
Hiya Charlie, I kinda try and use Zimo decoders where I can, they are in the budget bracket but give a good spread of features if required. Very smooth running and respond well to CV changes. Digitrains do the full range and luckily are my local retailer here in Lincoln
Hi Charlie, I model North American prototypes in N scale, with the majority of my locomotives being manufactured by Atlas. That being said, the plug-n-play decoders I've had the best luck with are Digitrax DCC decoders. I really like the BEMF, Torque compensation and SuperSonic motor drive circuits of the series 3 Digitrax decoders. The decoders I've had the most problems with were the Lenz preinstalled decoders that shipped with the Atlas locomotives. Even though the Lenz decoders reported they are 28/128 speed steps, the control was not as good as the Digitrax decoders. Another thing missing from the Lenz decoders were CV5 and CV6. Although I use JMRI with my PR4 to program my decoders, I've found programming CV2, CV5 and CV6 for speed control a lot easier than programming the speed table. I've also had good luck with the TCS CN and CN-GP decoders for use on older split frame locomotives that had light boards but were not plug-n-play. Cheers, Rich S.
Great video Charlie. I hate ripping up track too, messy business that. My suggestion would be to supply the platforms with underground tunnel access by cutting rectangular holes in the platform, add some steps going down, and some sort of overhead covering to the tunnel access. I have seen this method in many videos and where I live, even access from the station to the platforms are all underground in many cities. That said I do like your switching solution as well. Enjoy!
Hi Hans, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. I personally like footbridges as they give the impression of height making the station appear more 3 dimensional. Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
I like the video and the neat wiring. With the drop down board, I'd secure it with a rotating window catch, as it'd be quicker and less of a fiddle to drop it down. Regarding decoders, for non sound, I like to use either Lenz or DCC Concepts Zen series, especially the Zen Nano wired, which I find easy to fit in (be careful with the Zen Nano direct if there is limited vertical clearance as it is quite a high decoder), though if you want to fit a decoder to a Hornby M7 or Wainwright H Class, then you have to use a TCS decoder, which I've found to work well. With sound, I've found the Hornby TTS decoders to be both a pain to fit (due to the Hornby factory feeding pick up wires through the screw holes for the speaker and clearance problems between the tender weight and the speaker) and to be temperamental in operation. The Hornby decoders are also not so smooth in operation. ESU sound decoders on the other hand, work well, are smooth in operation, come with a speaker (oblong shaped) and are competitively priced. As for the point motors, I've gone for the DCC Concepts Cobalt iP Digital, which can be wired up directly to the dcc bus and without soldering.
Hi Neil, Many thanks for your information and I will include it in my DCC decoder video. The TTS points that you have made are particularly poignant. I’m trying to source a suitable catch for my hinged boards but, as yet, I’ve failed to find something suitable. Good luck with your project. Regards Charlie
You mean I've got to wait? Drat. I've thought about doing the wiring first and now so close to seeing it implemented -- with changes and how they go. Sigh. And super-elevation waiting, too. Bad as Christmas. You've got one guy waiting. Thanks.
Hi charlie great video I've taken some of my track up and am starting again and I've put4 lines down then that is all lol need to work out what I want them todo
Hi Brentlea, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. This Railway Modelling is a real challenge! Still, it keeps us busy. Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Good progress. I will be looking out for the decoder views. New to dcc so all info on them helps! Good to see some further pointers on super elevation. My lastest video covered a nice insight into the basis of it and using the slighly different method from how alot of others install it. Tim
@@ChadwickModelRailway. No idea on exact timing it was used. I'd guess as rail travel started getting faster and how the physics are laid out (i dont understand any of it) could of been the turn of the 20th century. When you think how rail operators were keen to see how fast they could travel across the country in a steam loco the track physics must of played an important part of it.. super elevation being useful for a train to round a bend at high speed! Its been an interesting topic within the youtube community group since found that inner rails drop lower on some stretches of lines..
You are looking (thinking) more like the real railroads do here it the states as far as easy way to do it, I'm sure in England too. I like the superelevated look, but do it by sanding the cork road bed to do it this makes for a smooth transition in both look and operation. looking at the real thing I guess I could elevate more on my new layout. As far as decoders I haven'tinstslled that many but in n scale I'm having trouble with digital as the boards are thicker than the originals and require a little more work. a must complement you on both wiring and layout too....thanks for sharing....Jack😁
Hi Charlie Great video, the track work adjustment will give you much more scope for running and interesting shots. With regard to decoders I use Bachmann 8 or 21 pin decoders mainly and have found them okay, the Bachmann new 6 pin decoder is actually a zimo chip and is superb, my 03 runs like a dream now. Im also impressed with Lenz silver decoders and Zimo 623 but these for me are too costly. I have until recently stuck with the speakers supplied with the sound chips but for sound quality a single large iPhone speaker or pairing this with the small iPhone speaker gives great results per pound spent. I did a video recently with a class 46 fitted with Loksound V4 and iPhone speaker and it sounds fantastic. Enjoy your break Cheers Paul
Hi. Yes that was my intention but the DIY stores don’t seem to stock anything suitable. Still, it’s just a matter of time. Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie. I model in 4mm scale and, today, mostly Diesels. For what it is worth here are some of my opinions on decoders and speakers. Sorry it is nearly as long as your video LOL !!! On the subject of DCC decoders I have found that there is an element of horses for courses. Some decoders will work well in one loco and be auful in another. I have one Hornby class 31 fitted with a TTS decoder and it works well but is prone to starting off randomly even when not addressed. Every other loco/Hornby combination I have tried has been unacceptable. The ability of Hornby decoders to drive motors is IMHO suspect partly due to the fact that Hornby do not conform to the DCC standards. I will also say that quality comes at a price. Lens silver/gold decoders are generally very good whereas the hattons own brand at a third of the price are a bit unreliable. Heljan locos take much more current that most other brands and are prone to causing a decoder to shut down and then restart. However a Hornby decoder will often destroy itself in a Heljan. Being a bit of a cheap scate myself I have used a lot of Hattons decoders and accept the fallout rate. I now use LaisDCC and they are better and have a good range of features. When it comes to sound decoders Zimo stand out as the best for me with Loksound not far behind. But at 100+ quid each they are few and far between in my fleet. I mostly use a LiasDCC for the motor drive and the directional lighting and a TTS for the sound and the cab lights. That combination costs well under 50 quid and is a good compromise for me. Speakers are the part that really make or break a sound installation and here price is no guarantee of success. Sound is very subjective and can also be changed dramitacally by placement in the model. one of the best all round speakers I have found is the Megabase from Richard at Roads and Rails models but it will not fit in all locos. I have alsu used the Zimo Dumbo type which usw a tiny sugar cube speaker in a larger than normal enclosure and they can sound really good. Of coursr I don't buy mine from Zimo as they are expensive! I use a cheap drive unit from Richard and biuld mu own enclosure fro plasticard. Thay way I can have the biggest enclosure that will fit in the space available. Finally we must never forget one golden rule. One side ofa speaker must be SEALED inside an enclosure with the other side open to the surroundings. Failure to do this will always produce a thin sound lacking any low frequencies. I know that a bass reflex enclosure is not sealed but in this case the enclosure is tuned to the speaker and can involve a lot of conplex maths to get it right. These opinions are entirely my own and I am sure that other people will have different experiences with the same components. Above all we need to remember that this is a hobby that is supposed to be FUN! ..........................John
Hi John, Thanks so much for your in depth reply. Your views are in agreement with many previous comments and I will add yours to the matrix. As you said, speaker choice is key to good sound and next Friday’s video (which I recorded today) compares three of them. Regards Charlie
When I had my layouts, I used to be changing the track layout all the time! Adding points, making curves smoother etc . . These things never seem to be finished . . . .
I've used a few decoders, and my favourite is the cheap and cheerful Hornby R8249 4-function decoder. The reason I like it is because it has 4 functions, so you can do some creative rewiring and have bachmann locos with proper working lighting without having to lift a loco and flick the switch for the tail lights on and off. Function 1 and 2 are on/on in the direction of travel, where functions 3 and 4 can be switched on and off as you wish. This means that with a Bachmann 37 (for example), I can have F1 (white) (set at the #1 end) and F2 (yellow) (#2 end) going to the headlights for the loco, and then F3 (green going to the tail lights at the #1 end, and F4 (purple) at the #2 end. Wiring it this way means that when I press the 0 key on my Lenz 100 set, the headlight comes on in whatever direction the loco is travelling, and then buttons '1' and '2' will turn on the red tail lights at the #1 and #2 ends respectively. DCC sound is pretty cool, but I have over 180 locos and units, so the cost would be astronomical... so for now, sticking with the basics will do for me. So, I'll have to go for 'manual DCC sound' DCC operation, byt me making the sound with my mouth!! Heh heh!! Cheers Dave
Using the NCE power cab and lase decoders some work great some I’ve had issues with the lights coming on but then don’t ? Or simply don’t work at all , all hard wired.
Hi Charlie, to answer your question on what kind of dcc decoders we are using, I'm a ESU users for the last 10 years or so. I started with Lenz before but I missed the innovation and the sound decoders. Starting with the V3 sound decoders, I'm now fully swapped all V3 out and I'm a very happy V4 sound decoder user. Main reason to use ESU is the ESU programmer I'm using it to program the decoders with my favorite sounds and not to forget the firmware updates that really improved to performance of the V4.x decoders. And now updating (for free) to the full throttle feature. I also used other brands but without success (Lenz, Zimo, Bachman, DigiTracks). My loco fleet is now around 35 loco's with sound.
Hi, many thanks for your views which are much appreciated. You are the first to mention using the ESU programmer. I have also considered getting one butI don’t really understand what exactly you can program into your decoders. Can you swap sound files between decoders? Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Yes you can swap sound files or just parts of it, engine, break sounds are all separate sounds you can edit or put a activity to it. I use it sometimes to swap decoders between locos and reprogram the sounds.
Hi Charlie, I have to agree with "North Nottinghamshire Railways", with crossovers in the reverse configuration at the other end of the station would look much better. means more work though.
Hi Charlie, I know alot of people dislike hornby decoders but, for me personelly their 8 pin decoders I use in all of my heljan class 33s and class 47s and I have had no problems with them.The accelaration and decelaration with these decoders on my heljan models is pretty good when you altar the CVs 3&4. When it comes to Bachmann and hornby locos then I use Bachmanns 8 and 21 pin decoders.(Sorry for any bad spelling)
Sorry Charlie forgot to mention speakers. Right at the beginning of my love affair with DCC sound I discovered a source of various iPhone speakers on E-Bay at a ridiculous price. So I boought some. They are very, very good with great fidelity as you would expect from a smart phone. However their size restricts where they can be used. I have found that they are very good for mounting above the motor assembly on Bachmann and Heljab DMU/DPUs. The basic iPhoone speaker is long and thin, some are wider than others, so they lend themselves nicely to under the roof of diesels or DMUs. They can be used to good effect under the bonnet of Class 20's and most big diesels. However, because of their shape they are not suitable for non-tender steam locos where I use 'sugar-cube' speakers from my favorite retailer, Digitrains. For my fleet of Heljan class 27s I have used the sugar-cub mounted in the underslung fule tanks after drilling a series of holes in the tank bottom. Whilst the sugar-cube doed=s not have the true fidelity of the iPhone speaker they are very good for such a small unit but do need some sort of sound box, which the iPhone speaker does not. I have tried to do a comparison between both types of speaker in a tender mounted project and find both are very similat in actual performance when running on the layout. It is when at rest and idling that the iPhone speaker shows its pedigree and advanced speaker design, the sound is so much crisper. Both are good and each has merit for particular installations. However, the price/performance of the iPhone speaker is far superior but both are in a different post code to the standard Bachmann/Hornby fitted speakers. As I was writting this I discovered that you can now find a dual bass iPhone speaker on E-Bay. I have just ordered ten so hopefully when the slow boat from China arrives next month I can see how they perform. Ah I see Dave47b has beaten me to it and likes the dual base speaker, it certainly sounds good on his 37 Tractor, nice low bass notes. Always loved the sound of a 37 under load.
Hi Bruce, this is getting creepy. Yesterday I finished my next video comparing 3 speakers including the duel iPhone one. I used an ESU V4 into a class 37! Regards Charlie
Nice video Charlie, I also enjoyed your speaker comparison, the EM2 is very bass heavy. If only there was a speaker that had such good low and high end and would fit in a loco! On Dcc decoders I prefer the gaugemaster omni as it will fit either 8 or 21 pin locos, runs really smooth aswell. Thanks, Chris
I recently bought a new LAISDCC 6 pin NEM 651 decoder for £10.90. Seems to be working fine. It's around half the price of other 6 pin decoders. It's wired for a stay alive capacitor too, but there's no room in my loco to fit one.
Hi Charlie, love your videos and the content in them. In relation to the dcc decoders I have tried a few with my experiences listed. If your after the model numbers let me know and I can dig them out for you. Hornby basic dcc chip - reliable, small in size very cheap. Only negative was motor seamed to be a bit more noisy and slow crawling was not to my satisfaction. I use this chip in a few locomotives due to space. Nce - can’t remember the model number. Slow speed was good, and motor noise was significantly less. Biggest drawback was emergency stop didn’t seam to register with the loco it was in. I have had two chips from nce with the same issue with no response from emergency stops. Not a fan of them. Digitrax - again can’t remember the model number. No issues, slow speed was good, emergency stop worked reliable, motor noise was not an issue. Lenz silver - my preference. Slow speed is the best I have experienced and smooth. Motor noise was also the most quiet with these. Size is a bit larger compared to the previous ones I’ve tried so sadly can’t fit them to all my locomotives. Functions are aplenty as well from this chip. I live in Australia and I order these to be shipped to my door I like them that much. Hopefully that helps you and if you want the model numbers I can dig them out for you. Keep up the great work Clint
Hi Clint, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Thanks for your decoder details but I would like the model numbers if that isn’t too much trouble. Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Chadwick Model Railway Hi Charlie here are the model numbers. Nce - D15SRP Nce - P2KSR Hornby 4 Pin Decoder X9659 Lenz 8 Pin 4 Function Decoder Silver + 10311-01 Digitrax - DZ123 1 amp economy wired decoder small. Clint
I'll join the club. A survey/review of DCC would be of considerable interest to me. I'd be interested in the controllers as well as the decoders. BobUK. (very new to all this!)
You could always have bi-directional running so the DMU can run back in the opposite direction. We have a service between Stevenage and Morgate via the Hertford loop. It runs for a couple of miles along the down slow line into Stevenage, and then runs back along the same down slow line to finally cross to the up line just before Watton-at-Stone. OK it needs correct signalling, but would save you a lot of track relaying.
Hi Malcom , thanks for your advice but I do like the complexity of point work. I think the change will add a little more interest to that area. Regards Charlie
Hi charlie, nice video, bit unfortunate about the junction but these things happen. Personally, I've used LaisDcc chips for my layout pretty much because they are £10 off ebay but that being said I've yet to run into a problem with them. Best wishes, Alex.
I'm another one for lais decoders cheap and reliable and have you thought about using neo magnets for fastening your flap up again cheap from China and very strong. Great video again Charlie, look forward to the next one in a few weeks.Frank
Hi Frank, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. I’m not too sure that putting magnets so close to the electronics is a good idea. Thanks for the tip and I’ll look into the Lias decoders. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I would be interested in the choice of replacement speakers you are thinking of using, I have replaced a couple of them with iphone 6 speakers and although I think the sound is much fuller they are not as loud. I believe that two speakers can be used, but I haven't tried that yet, not really sure if they are connected in parallel or series and how a TTS decoder would cope with two speakers. Craig
Hi Craig. Purely by coincidence I’ve recently bought a pair of iPhone speakers assembled for loco fitting. I shall do a quick video to show their performance. Sadly, I have no idea regarding a TTS decoders abilities. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie I really like your videos very informative. I have only used lenz decoders and have had no problems. Any chance you can do a how to video on lnstallling a sound chip and speakers. I appreciate you are a busy person but it would be appreciated for a novice modeller. Mike Tee
Doncaster is like that however you’ll need a signal half way along platform! As for chips I’ve found the lais work well except in power thirsty heljan locos
the other pro typical way is. the unit would continue out of the platform to the other end then crossover from the right hand side as we look at it. if there was a set of points there. as the big railway did not like facing points on main lines if they did not need them. in case they failed under fast trains
In my opinion I'd steer clear of Hornby Decoders. I've had multiple decoders blow up, had wires come off or even end up with snapped wires. I would however reccommend Hattons own branded ones as the wires plug into the decoder so you don't get any wires coming off the decoder, they have yet to blow up and they generally have a better quality feel to them. Also going off reviews other people have done I'd also reccommend Lenz decoders but they can be slightly more expensive.
Hi Gonads! For a permanent layout, I use 12mm ply. I bought mine from B&Q and had them cut the boards to size. It’s heavy but shouldn’t warp. It will still need cross members. 25 x 50mm or thereabouts. Regards Charlie
dcc chips. Had about 20 dcc locos so far. Only bad experience was putting hattons dcc chips into Heljan locos (Kestrel, Class 58, Falcon) where I had to take the chips out and put back to 12V dc. Everything worked fine functionally but had great difficulty starting the loco off. It would slowly move off then stop, slowly move off and stop and so on. If it every did get to speed it would be ok. Probable explanation is that the chip cant provide the high starting currents required by the Heljan motors. I've used the same Hattons chips successfully on Bachmann locos so I don't think its the Hattons brand and also I was using different chips in my experiments so I don't think its a rogue chip. I'd be interested if people have chipped these Heljan locos what brand they used.
I would like to see more on decoders, that is the best for your money, Rob McCrain in the US, a great collector of UK model stock was not impressed with Bachmann coaches on elevated track. Good planning on the wiring methodical
Perhaps two crossovers would be a little more prototypical. Although they would take up more room it would look good with the three or four car dmu snaking across them. Similar to that at Doncaster platform 3 I believe. Just a thought?
Hi Robo, I take your point but I already have a point network on the right hand side and I wanted to bring in trains, such a three car DMU, without having to reverse. Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Its too late now but....eh. I bought two Hattons 6 pin decoders for a class 03 conversion. BOTH of them blew up and killed the class 03 dead.....so I took the motor out binned it, took the cab off the class 03 and wrapped it in "tarpaulin" and stuck it at the end of a siding XD
Yes I have and also a single slip. As I don’t need access to the “fast down” in either direction, the diamond seems the logical answer. Regards Charlie
Hey Charlie. Liking the track plan changes - I think that would really work. Regarding the speakers, have a look at both the Zimo Dumbo’s and iPhone speakers.....both are fantastic sounding and cheap!
Not keen on the standard Hornby R8249 decoders. They don't support CV2 Vstart, CV6 Vmid or CV5 Vhigh. They're also low rated, being only 500mA continuous motor output current and 1.0 Amp peak. Most other decoders I've seen are 1.0 Amp continuous and 2.0 Amp peak.
See, you say its no fun but really, I'm beginning to suspect you're the kind of guy who genuinely does love the modelling and tinkering side as much as you do the running of the models. I also suspect that if you actually ever managed to create a 'perfect' layout, you'd be bored to tears after 5 minutes and end up being sat there thinking of how to tweak it. Not in anyway saying its a bad thing of course; it does make you a fountain of information and ideas. :D
Hi Buck, drat, my secret is out. You are probably right. It’s only when you revisit something after a couple of days that you might realise that there’s a better solution. Then, I can’t bear the idea of not going back. Good luck with your project. Regards Charlie
It is said that a model railroad is never truly "finished"! If a modeler does actually "finish" their railroad, it's usually not long before it is torn down and a new one started. At the rate I'm going, mine should be finished about the year 2765! :D
looking at the flap, you could replace each screw with a pair of strong magnets glued with superglue to the wood... now, to open the flap, just yank it ;-) then push it in and it locks into place
Surely that cross over would of been done at the other end of the platforms and from slow line to slow line...... very unsafe practise but modelling interest for sure. The unloaded local service might cross the two fast lanes and be at the head of the return platform. I am sure your experience and that of your friends out matches mine, but I still want to ask why this way and not that way.
SuperElevation is fine in the real world, and has a purpose. In models it is more cosmetic and doesn’t truly have a purpose. That said, when all mathematical equations are taken into account, on the real thing, these would have restricting effects on 4mm SCALE. True scale is impossible as the one thing we can not replicate is weight, drag and momentum. This should be a serious consideration when planning Super Elevation as we can’t reproduce the weight, drag or momentum in model form. The result COULD compromise smooth running as running wheel weight, suspension, vehicular weight and centrifugal force are not scaled! These are all in a 12”:1 foot world. My message isn’t a criticism, more an observation and request, for consideration, when planning high speed running tracks on a model. There is a tendency for wheels, which we rely heavily upon for pick-up, to lift from the contact surface when traversing the start, or end particularly, in a section of Super Elevation. Make sure that this is allowed for when designing track work and in understanding the principals to apply may help. Best wishes.
Hi Bobby, You have made some interesting points and hopefully, with good track work, the pick-up issue should be minimises. Rest assured that my findings will be honest. Regards Charlie
This may be more of a problem for steam loco models with their long wheelbases and if they do not have any suspension. Bogie diesel locos would not be troubled as much. The goal is to have the transition to Super elevation as gradual and smooth as possible.
I recommend them always. All my loco's i've converted to ESU and Zimo. They may cost considerably more, but hey, you get what you pay for and i'd pay more for quality any day of the week. Bachmann etc, have to lift their game before they even come close to ESU etc. And with the advent of the lokprogramer by ESU and JMRI the possibilities are endless unlike these el-cheapo chinese made decoder's and speakers on the market. Go with them Charlie. You won't regret it.
MRC are in general the worse decoders made. The motor control is poor and sound is terrible. Digitrax also has poor motor control and from what I hear their customer service is not the best. TCS make good decoders with great motor control. Tsunami are good but fell behind ESU and TCS. QSI is another not great decoder.
Great video again Charlie and my decoder experience says that Hornby decoder a are ok, but can't tolerate abuse I have two locks fitted with them and they work well, but I got wired a digitrax I'm pretty sure it's called 8 pin into a 0-4-0 but just left on the track idol it tends to get hot this decoder already burnt out one of my train motors but thankfully it does work with this 0-4-0.
But thanks for the video no worries to wait it's worth it anyway catch you in the next one!! 😀😀😀😃😃😄🙂
Hi Shane, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Your comments are exactly what I’m after.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Chadwick Model Railway thanks my layout is going good just got some static grass and applicator for my birthday with two new sound locos and 15 carriages
I like the clean look
Thanks Mike and good luck with your layout.
Hiya Charlie, well I'm two years on you, just made 62 lol...
I love your videos both for content and production values, I used to work in film/tv power and lighting, too many years doing shows like The Clothes Show...
I'm retired ish now due to health so on a fixed limited income but if I win the Euro... I'd love to get into building layouts but not much into running. I think it's the combination of tec with artistic that appeals. Your videos with their combination of common sense and hi-tec information are the best around, thank you for all that you do.
Hi Steve, I’m so pleased that you enjoy my videos and hopefully you have subscribed too.
Good luck with your projects.
Regards Charlie.
Small world Charlie: I now live in France but for 5 years or so traveled from Totnes to Plymouth. Can't believe I have just seen Totnes station !
Hugh
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed a look back into Devon. A great cafe in the preserved signal box too.
Hi Charlie. Due to turn 40 soon and have been seriously considering starting a model in the loft. Your videos are sort of ebbing me towards one.
I do like the fold down flap for the electrics, strange how ideas like that tend to come more with age. Older and wiser I suppose.
Great videos. 👍
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video Will.
I admire how clean and neat your wiring is. Im interested to see what people think about the DCC decoders also.
Hi Joe, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video.
Regards Charlie
Great video Charlie. Very interested to find out more about the decoders, those videos will certainly be very helpful for those of us who aren’t so well versed in the arts of DCC. Regards, MR.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it MR.
Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, love your videos, very inspirational and informative, even to an N gauger, I'm in the process of stripping down my almost finished layout to build a larger one and taking all this information up like a sponge, look forward to every Friday now. I never dared touch CV's until last week, but after your video I took the plunge and it took me a day to get what I wanted from my first loco, but the satisfaction of doing it was incredible, many thanks..
Hi Prime Lens, that’s such great news. It makes my efforts worthwhile.
Regards Charlie
Excellent as always. I’m really looking forward to seeing how to wire up the double slip. I’m still loose laying track until I’m satisfied that it’s right, but it includes 2 double slips at the station throat to service the bay platforms with the same objective as you. Keep these videos coming. They’re invaluable and so timely! Brian.
Hi Brian, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Im sorry but it’s a diamond crossing and not a double slip that I’m installing. But double slips are easy. The frog wires connect to the point motors on the other end. And, if you get a short it’s the feeds to the frog on the point motors that are the wrong way around. Are you using slow action or solenoid point motors?
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I'm following your example on most things, and going for Tortoise, particularly after I found a video that played the sound of Tortoise v. Cobalt, and as you say in one video, the volume from a Cobalt is much greater than the Tortoise. [They're not ordered yet. I'm still waiting for my second double slip from the local model shop.]
Good for you Brian.
I had the same sort of issue. A train could cross from the outer track to the inner, but could not cross from the inner to the outer without backing through the turnouts. Space limitations (darn them, anyway!) prevented me from installing another pair of turnouts to permit forward transit from inner to outer. The solution was provided by a modeler who used 4 Atlas turnouts and a 19 degree crossing to make a double crossover. Using them stock gives a track spacing of 3" on center. Using some creative "surgery" I was able to trim the turnouts and crossing to provide a spacing of 2-1/16". Trains will transit from either track to the other, both forwards and backwards, with no issues at all. The key is just taking your time and planning it out well. Your crossing will provide a lot of operational interest, Charlie. Don't be too surprised if, in the future, you tear out more track to install MORE crossings! These things have a way of taking over. Sort of like the old children's story about the camel who only wanted his nose in the tent to keep it warm..........
Thanks Flyboy, you have made some good points. I have the exit sorted (in my mind anyway). It just requires some bi/directional signalling.
Regards Charlie
Hola from sunny Spain Charlie 😊 Great little update and I had the same problem laying track then found out it didn’t work 🙄 I’ve made a new track plan for my revised layout and I’m still messing it about!! But it’s all good fun 😆Cheers once again Stevie.
Hi Stevie, get back in the sunshine and stop mucking about on UA-cam!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it and good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Another great video Charlie keep them up good luck installing those new point motors!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Now to spend even more money!
Good video Charlie, I had a similar problem with my layout regarding access but its good to see you can get it sorted out with a bit of work.
Regards
Michael
Hi Michael, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Hi charlie seen your video on dcc decoders I use hornby standard 8 pin dcc decoders and also I have 6 tts sound chip decoders 3 steam and 3 diesel locomotives 1 of the steam locomotives my 4MT has a sugar cube speaker in drivers and firemans cab only because the tts speaker was to large but I think the tts sound is not a bad sound quality to say they are only a fraction of the cost of the v5 loksound equivalent which I could purchase from Olivias trains not far from me great video about adding a diamond point to accommodate trains back to town keep safe Kev
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it Kev. Decoders are a very personal thing. Some I love some I don't!
Thanks again Charlie!! Enjoy your holidays!!!
Thanks Onno, let’s hope that the sun shines. Regards Charlie
Are you staying in England??
England then Turkey.
In Turkey you will have sun!!! Enjoy!!
Hi,
Awesome Video. Greetings from N SW Australia. Up till now I have been running G scale on Lenz DCC. Recently I got diagnosed as Terminally Ill, so I've sold most of the G scale, only have a few Locos left. Being on a Pension now, I';ve always bought other peoples cock ups and this enabled me to strip down and rework with various makes of Decoders. I've started buying ON30. I don't have room indoors, I live in a Yurt, again Homemade. I'm in a glorified Carport.
I will run ON30 in the garden( raised 2ft high), with 2 return loops and 3 stations. The stations will all be undercover, tho the middle station point work will be spring loaded, and not controlled by DCC The overall length of the line will be around 170ft. I've used and will continue to use many different makes of Decoder. Actually there's a guy down in Vic, who makes Loco decoders cheap. He also does Point Decoders, using servos.
I know there is the saying you get what you pay for, but I cannot justify spending on decoders that cost sometimes several times more cost than that of the Loco. I still have a few G scale locos where the electronics I've fitted has cost way more than the price I paid for the Loco, which in many cases I bought as dismantled. One of the biggest joys I have with DCC is Sound equipped Locos. I'm not a rivet counter, so I 'm not fussed if a Loco has sound from another Class, provided it suits the Loco and the Chuff is Synchronised as realistically as Possible. I have previously only bought separate Movement and Sound decoders.
Most of the Movement Decoders that I have, will be sold as apart from the Old MRC 321s the rest are all too big to consider using. Those 321s are no longer produced. I was lucky enough to buy a few when the price was right. The rest like 5 series Digitrax are just way too big. Sound Decoders, I have mostly Soundtraxx. I bought most of these as the original Soundtraxx DSX Boards ( sound only) which for the money are unbelievable quality. They still come up on Ebay, tho I've got a few. I also have Digitrax, Sound bugs etc. They are also awesome. - Most of the Sound boards I have are clearly for USA outline. I have bought a few of the Sound on Board Bachmann ON30 locos, but they generally need CVs Tweeked a bit.
Tho the bulk of ON30 is USA outline, I am modifying it to be a bit more Australian. However I have also started buying parts to make up a Hartz Bahn 2-10-2, that's my version of "Train Porn". I expect that decoder will cost a small fortune.
Pete
Hi Peter,
Wow, what a response. Clearly you have forgotten more about DCC decoders than I have ever known.
I’m sure that the information you have provided will be useful in my forthcoming video.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Thank you. Thank you too for you excellent videos,, I have subscribed. Of all those I have seen you are clearly very professional in your videos carefully planning and your wiring is exceptional.
I'm 55. I grew up with Hornby Analogue. I've journeyed from my old Hornby, through Z, N and G for about the last 15 years. I started G in Analogue, and then discovered the joys of DCC. Even know I've been asked to return a DCC loco back to Analogue. To be honest, I think it's like putting a square wheel back on..
Those of US, like you and me, didn't grow up with Technology. When I was a Kid I didn't have a Calculator I had a Slide Rule.. It was only after getting my first PC that I started to learn about digital technology. That was about 15 years ago, when I first came to Australia. I'm originally from Basingstoke, North Hampshire..
I think it's fare to say that these days most older people look at this relatively new digital technology as being too complicated to use when in actual fact it is easy to use and makes Model railway life a lot simpler. I think it's the programming side that puts people off, and perhaps some of the prices for digital equipment. At first I was timid about programming, but once you've done it a few times it becomes second nature. Once you have grasped the basics a whole new world of Control options become achievable easily.
As with the G scale, I use a Lenz XPA, which enables me to use a cordless house phone system, providing multiple cordless controllers. I also have the PC link, and Wifi for Smart Phone users. I'm currently playing with miniature HD streaming cameras, which I will place in the cab of locos, so that I can drive from my PC. They will also derive their power from the track. I'm going to have an On Board driving experience, from PC or Smart phone. Point Control is with the Peco Smart system linked in.
I will still convert some Loco's over to DCC( Home Projects) but these days most Manufacturers are starting to either produce DCC ready, or DCC on Board. I believe that DCC will become the standard, and I believe it is better to embrace the Technology and make it work for you. Now with more plug and play connections it has become easy for anyone to fit DCC.
Not all decoders have to cost. You pay your money and you make your choice. I have not tried one yet, I think I might give one a go
www.ebay.com.au/itm/DCC-Decoder-turn-your-DC-loco-into-DCC-with-this-easy-to-fit-module/123226068297?hash=item1cb0d89549:g:tnkAAOSwyARbOkbp
It's winter down here now, unlike the UK, most days I'm in shorts and vest. The base should be completed within the next 3 weeks. I live in my man cave and the house is about 150ft away. Currently my evenings are spent soldering Jumper Wires etc. Lots and lots to go. The track will be separated into 2 blocks, running at 13V 5amps.
As rain is a problem in the UK it isn't here. We are experiencing a drought. In this last year I have only cut the yard grass twice. Once spring comes, it will be a dust bowl here. The outdoor sections of track won't be in Direct sunlight. Tho our summer temps get into the high 40sC. I guess it'll be summer evening running. I plan to be running by 1st November.
I write too much because I have time on my hands. Too much time. Now time has become somewhat more precious I figured I put my experiences up, and if they are of use to you or anybody else then I am happy.
Pete.
Hi Pete,
Well it appears that I have a few years on you. I’m 60 next month.
Still, I can always treat myself to a new sound loco!
Thanks for sharing so many of your personal experiences. I grew up in Swindon and used to spot around 1970/1974.
I’ve finished next week’s video which is on DCC sound speakers.
I’m off to York next week for my birthday with a trip on the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway.
Take care, regards Charlie
Hi Charlie. I'd suggest installing a trailing crossover to the left-0hand side of the station, where the five lines have merged into two. The shuttle train could then arrive into either of the far platforms, reverse and use the crossover to gain access to the inner main line.
Hi Stephen,
An interesting option but I think I will go with the diamond crossing as it adds more visual interest.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Hello again Charlie. Just seen a post about burning out a decoder and thought I had better share a little story.
A friend and I have designed and built some very small 'super-cap stay-alives'. The idea was that I wanted to fit a good stay-alive into a Class 08 where there was almost no room available, we squeezed our unit under the motor. That is the background.
However, as space was at such a premium I decided on the smalles available Zimo sound decoder. I was small and therefore would only tolerate about 1/2 amp. That was fine until during modifications to the 08 I experienced a motor stall which blew a capacitur on the decoder. Becayse the decoder had come from Digitrains that was noy a problem, a new replace ment for £18 arrived within a day, but the cause of the problem was at that time not known and the first suspect was a new version of the 'stay-alive. Howver, a call to Digitrains and a conversation with Jeremy solved the issue.
When the 08 stalled (caused by my bad quartering) the motor was drawing about one and a half amps. Far too much for the tiny decoder, a normal sized Zimo would have coped but would not have fitted inside the non-DCC ready 08.
So the moral of this story is that choose your decoder carefully and make certain that it can handle a stalled motor unless you want to hand over another £18 and have a loco un-available for 48 hours.
Hi Bruce,
I too have had an interesting experience with Hornby’s 08.
Please have a look through my back catalogue for “Improving Hornby’s 08”.
There are some scary similarities.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, DCC sound decoders are something that I decided to fit to al my steam and diesel locs, around 100 at this point in time. As this was always going to be a significant purchase I spent many month of research starting with what make of DCC decoder. As you will be aware there are many cheap decoders out there and a few medium priced ones and then again a small number of premium decoders. Well as they always say 'you pays your money and you take your pick'. Well I tested decoders from Hattons, Bachmann, Lenz and Zimo, all on the same loco. The Bachmann decoders were rejected almost imediately as the loco's slow speed performance was very bad, hatton's were better but not great. I then tried Lenz and was very pleasantly surprised with the overall performance. At this point I thought that I was going to standardise on Lenz, they were pricy but they performed so well. Before I made a final decision I bought a SLW Class 24 with a Zimo sound decoder and was imediately hooked on both sound and the superb running qualities of the Zimo decoder, it was totally in a class of its own, even putting the Lenz decoder to shame.
Just before buying the SLW 24 I had ordered a class 08 shunter with legobiffoman sound. I was not impressed with the retailer who is well know for being rude and certainly takes his time getting product to his clients. I thought that the Legobiffoman sound file was also not up to scratch. I still have it and it is about to be the subject of some intensive fiddling with the CVs to try and get it to perform realistically. Oh by the way the sound chip for the 08 was around £95.
It was at this point that I contacted Digitrains in Lincoln and found them to be not only very knowledgeble but great people to deal with. First off I purchased a very small Zimo sound decoder and their own sound file for the Class 08. The cost was under £100, so almost the same as the Legobiffomann offering. Well to say that they were as different as chalk and cheese is an understatement. The Zimo chip has some suberb features not found on any other chip including electronic flywheel and easy connection to a 'Stay-Alive' system. Both very important on a small 0-6-0 loco that spends most of its time at slow speed over numerous points. I have a piece of test track which is kept in a filthy state just to test decoders and 'stay-alives'. The Legobiffomann 08 just stalled and could not cope with the state of the track. However the Digitrains Zimo with no 'stay-alive' managed the test track with only minor hesitation. I then installed a very simple 1000uF capacitor to the on chip circuitry and repeated the test. This time the 08 could crawl the entire length at speed setting 1 of 128 without an hesitation or break in sound. The capacitor was sufficient to power the Zimo's built-in electronic flywheel and habdle the dirty track. That was the proof that I needed to install Digitrains Zimo sound decoders in all my locos. Both 08s are Hornby based and by the way the SLW Class 24 which is fitted with a supercap 'stay-alive' also handled the test track without a problem at speed 1 (it took about 10 minutes to travel the 1 meter section, that is how slow it could go).
I have now fitted a variety of three Zimmo sound decoders to about 3/4 of the fleet and the results are suberb. The Zimo decoder without sound is about the same price as the Lenz decoders but with sound it is the same as all the major vendors, but the Digitrains sound file has features that are unique and really make the whole system work for real. I am a total fan of the braking system which is operated as the full scale loco would be operated complete with all the appropriate sounds an all for under £100.
Initially I had a few problems with the decoder installation, nothing to do with the decoder or how it worked but to do with getting a decoder, a 'stay-alive', a supercap and a speaker in a very small area. The help and assistance I got from Digitrains was unbelievable, Jeremy (the owner) gave me lots of advice, including some of his many 'tricks-of-the-trade' including lots of encouragement. Possibly the best customer service I have ever experienced.
So in conclusion, I found that any DCC sound decoder worth its salt is about the same price, but the features and performace of the Dihitrains Zimo decoders and their sound file are in an entirely different league. I lent a loco to a freind who has all Lenz DCC system and he fell in love with the Zimo and is now converting from Lenz to Zimo. There are so many features to the Zimo decoder that I have, over the last 18 months, barely scratched the surface. Oh, by the way they come with already set up with Digitrains optimised CV's which I have not had to fiddle with.
Try a Zimo, but beware, you will become hooked and afterwards nothing else will do. They really are that good. As for Digitrains, well what else can I say other than it is a pleasure to spend my money there and fell that I am an appreciated client.
Sorry for the long comment but I am a true convert to Zimo and Digitrains.
Have a good one and stay frosty. Love your videos, keep them coming, even I learn something everytime.
Hi Bruce, wow what a reply.
Yours is the first reply that really states a difference between ESU and Zimo.
I understand your view of a certain individual and totally agree. I wonder if this has tainted your view of ESU V4.
I’d love to buy you s cuppa and discuss this further. Perhaps you go the shows such as Warley.
I hope to put out a video on DCC Decoders at the end of the month on a league table basis.
Thanks for your help. Regards Charlie
The track changes will make operations more interesting.. nice idea your friend had . After all what are friends for, huh .
Hi Jim, yes it’s great to be offered advice even when you think you have it sorted!
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I use various decoders which have all proved good. I use Digitrax both direct plug and also on wired looms, ESU Lokpilot V4, and have tried DCC concepts Zen. Had a couple of failed Zens and also a Hornby chip or two fail so tend to go Digitrax. Really like the ESU's but they are a tad expensive. Have found the main thing to bear in mind is the number of functions you want and the room you have inside your loco. I run both British and American so my requirements are quite broad. Just today chipped three class 55 diesels, one Princess Coronation, a class 20 and tried to chip a 9 f but couldn't get the chip in the body as it was too wide! Will get a z sized chip from digitrax as there is very little room. I like the direct plug chips ie no wires as they are much neater with width being the main issue sometimes. Hope this helps. Stephen.
Hi Stephen, that’s exactly the comment that I’m after. I’m collating the responses and will include all the data in the video. Regards Charlie
Hiya Charlie, I kinda try and use Zimo decoders where I can, they are in the budget bracket but give a good spread of features if required. Very smooth running and respond well to CV changes. Digitrains do the full range and luckily are my local retailer here in Lincoln
Hi Mick, that’s exactly the information that I’m after. Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I model North American prototypes in N scale, with the majority of my locomotives being manufactured by Atlas. That being said, the plug-n-play decoders I've had the best luck with are Digitrax DCC decoders. I really like the BEMF, Torque compensation and SuperSonic motor drive circuits of the series 3 Digitrax decoders. The decoders I've had the most problems with were the Lenz preinstalled decoders that shipped with the Atlas locomotives. Even though the Lenz decoders reported they are 28/128 speed steps, the control was not as good as the Digitrax decoders. Another thing missing from the Lenz decoders were CV5 and CV6. Although I use JMRI with my PR4 to program my decoders, I've found programming CV2, CV5 and CV6 for speed control a lot easier than programming the speed table. I've also had good luck with the TCS CN and CN-GP decoders for use on older split frame locomotives that had light boards but were not plug-n-play. Cheers, Rich S.
Hi Rich,
Many thanks for your views on decoders. Along with the other responses I’ll produced a video summarising peoples preferences.
Regards Charlie
Great video Charlie. I hate ripping up track too, messy business that. My suggestion would be to supply the platforms with underground tunnel access by cutting rectangular holes in the platform, add some steps going down, and some sort of overhead covering to the tunnel access. I have seen this method in many videos and where I live, even access from the station to the platforms are all underground in many cities. That said I do like your switching solution as well. Enjoy!
Hi Hans, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video.
I personally like footbridges as they give the impression of height making the station appear more 3 dimensional.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
I like the video and the neat wiring. With the drop down board, I'd secure it with a rotating window catch, as it'd be quicker and less of a fiddle to drop it down. Regarding decoders, for non sound, I like to use either Lenz or DCC Concepts Zen series, especially the Zen Nano wired, which I find easy to fit in (be careful with the Zen Nano direct if there is limited vertical clearance as it is quite a high decoder), though if you want to fit a decoder to a Hornby M7 or Wainwright H Class, then you have to use a TCS decoder, which I've found to work well. With sound, I've found the Hornby TTS decoders to be both a pain to fit (due to the Hornby factory feeding pick up wires through the screw holes for the speaker and clearance problems between the tender weight and the speaker) and to be temperamental in operation. The Hornby decoders are also not so smooth in operation. ESU sound decoders on the other hand, work well, are smooth in operation, come with a speaker (oblong shaped) and are competitively priced. As for the point motors, I've gone for the DCC Concepts Cobalt iP Digital, which can be wired up directly to the dcc bus and without soldering.
Hi Neil,
Many thanks for your information and I will include it in my DCC decoder video.
The TTS points that you have made are particularly poignant.
I’m trying to source a suitable catch for my hinged boards but, as yet, I’ve failed to find something suitable.
Good luck with your project.
Regards Charlie
You mean I've got to wait? Drat. I've thought about doing the wiring first and now so close to seeing it implemented -- with changes and how they go. Sigh. And super-elevation waiting, too. Bad as Christmas. You've got one guy waiting. Thanks.
Austin, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it and are awaiting my videos with such enthusiasm.
Good luck with your layout too.
Hi charlie great video I've taken some of my track up and am starting again and I've put4 lines down then that is all lol need to work out what I want them todo
Hi Brentlea,
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. This Railway Modelling is a real challenge! Still, it keeps us busy.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Good progress. I will be looking out for the decoder views. New to dcc so all info on them helps!
Good to see some further pointers on super elevation. My lastest video covered a nice insight into the basis of it and using the slighly different method from how alot of others install it.
Tim
Hi Tim, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Have you any idea when super elevation first started?
Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway. No idea on exact timing it was used. I'd guess as rail travel started getting faster and how the physics are laid out (i dont understand any of it) could of been the turn of the 20th century. When you think how rail operators were keen to see how fast they could travel across the country in a steam loco the track physics must of played an important part of it.. super elevation being useful for a train to round a bend at high speed! Its been an interesting topic within the youtube community group since found that inner rails drop lower on some stretches of lines..
Great info Tim.
You are looking (thinking) more like the real railroads do here it the states as far as easy way to do it, I'm sure in England too. I like the superelevated look, but do it by sanding the cork road bed to do it this makes for a smooth transition in both look and operation. looking at the real thing I guess I could elevate more on my new layout. As far as decoders I haven'tinstslled that many but in n scale I'm having trouble with digital as the boards are thicker than the originals and require a little more work. a must complement you on both wiring and layout too....thanks for sharing....Jack😁
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video Jack. Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie
Great video, the track work adjustment will give you much more scope for running and interesting shots.
With regard to decoders I use Bachmann 8 or 21 pin decoders mainly and have found them okay, the Bachmann new 6 pin decoder is actually a zimo chip and is superb, my 03 runs like a dream now. Im also impressed with Lenz silver decoders and Zimo 623 but these for me are too costly.
I have until recently stuck with the speakers supplied with the sound chips but for sound quality a single large iPhone speaker or pairing this with the small iPhone speaker gives great results per pound spent. I did a video recently with a class 46 fitted with Loksound V4 and iPhone speaker and it sounds fantastic.
Enjoy your break
Cheers
Paul
Hi Paul, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video and your views are exactly what I’m after.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Use a cabinet door spring gripper catch or a magnetic catch to hold the hinged panel in place, saves unscrewing for quick access
Hi. Yes that was my intention but the DIY stores don’t seem to stock anything suitable. Still, it’s just a matter of time.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Thanks Charlie, another helpful video
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Andy.
Hi Charlie. I model in 4mm scale and, today, mostly Diesels. For what it is worth here are some of my opinions on decoders and speakers. Sorry it is nearly as long as your video LOL !!!
On the subject of DCC decoders I have found that there is an element of horses for courses. Some decoders will work well in one loco and be auful in another. I have one Hornby class 31 fitted with a TTS decoder and it works well but is prone to starting off randomly even when not addressed. Every other loco/Hornby combination I have tried has been unacceptable. The ability of Hornby decoders to drive motors is IMHO suspect partly due to the fact that Hornby do not conform to the DCC standards.
I will also say that quality comes at a price. Lens silver/gold decoders are generally very good whereas the hattons own brand at a third of the price are a bit unreliable.
Heljan locos take much more current that most other brands and are prone to causing a decoder to shut down and then restart. However a Hornby decoder will often destroy itself in a Heljan.
Being a bit of a cheap scate myself I have used a lot of Hattons decoders and accept the fallout rate. I now use LaisDCC and they are better and have a good range of features.
When it comes to sound decoders Zimo stand out as the best for me with Loksound not far behind. But at 100+ quid each they are few and far between in my fleet. I mostly use a LiasDCC for the motor drive and the directional lighting and a TTS for the sound and the cab lights. That combination costs well under 50 quid and is a good compromise for me.
Speakers are the part that really make or break a sound installation and here price is no guarantee of success. Sound is very subjective and can also be changed dramitacally by placement in the model. one of the best all round speakers I have found is the Megabase from Richard at Roads and Rails models but it will not fit in all locos. I have alsu used the Zimo Dumbo type which usw a tiny sugar cube speaker in a larger than normal enclosure and they can sound really good. Of coursr I don't buy mine from Zimo as they are expensive! I use a cheap drive unit from Richard and biuld mu own enclosure fro plasticard. Thay way I can have the biggest enclosure that will fit in the space available.
Finally we must never forget one golden rule. One side ofa speaker must be SEALED inside an enclosure with the other side open to the surroundings. Failure to do this will always produce a thin sound lacking any low frequencies. I know that a bass reflex enclosure is not sealed but in this case the enclosure is tuned to the speaker and can involve a lot of conplex maths to get it right.
These opinions are entirely my own and I am sure that other people will have different experiences with the same components. Above all we need to remember that this is a hobby that is supposed to be FUN! ..........................John
Hi John,
Thanks so much for your in depth reply.
Your views are in agreement with many previous comments and I will add yours to the matrix.
As you said, speaker choice is key to good sound and next Friday’s video (which I recorded today) compares three of them.
Regards Charlie
When I had my layouts, I used to be changing the track layout all the time! Adding points, making curves smoother etc . . These things never seem to be finished . . . .
I think that’s so true.
It’s right that a layout should be in a constant state of improvement.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
I've used a few decoders, and my favourite is the cheap and cheerful Hornby R8249 4-function decoder.
The reason I like it is because it has 4 functions, so you can do some creative rewiring and have bachmann locos with proper working lighting without having to lift a loco and flick the switch for the tail lights on and off.
Function 1 and 2 are on/on in the direction of travel, where functions 3 and 4 can be switched on and off as you wish.
This means that with a Bachmann 37 (for example), I can have F1 (white) (set at the #1 end) and F2 (yellow) (#2 end) going to the headlights for the loco, and then F3 (green going to the tail lights at the #1 end, and F4 (purple) at the #2 end.
Wiring it this way means that when I press the 0 key on my Lenz 100 set, the headlight comes on in whatever direction the loco is travelling, and then buttons '1' and '2' will turn on the red tail lights at the #1 and #2 ends respectively.
DCC sound is pretty cool, but I have over 180 locos and units, so the cost would be astronomical... so for now, sticking with the basics will do for me.
So, I'll have to go for 'manual DCC sound' DCC operation, byt me making the sound with my mouth!! Heh heh!!
Cheers
Dave
Many thanks for your input Dave.
There aren’t many who are as sympathetic as you with Hornby’s decoders.
Regards Charlie
Using the NCE power cab and lase decoders some work great some I’ve had issues with the lights coming on but then don’t ? Or simply don’t work at all , all hard wired.
Thanks Brian, all this information really helps. Regards Charlie
The emergency stop won’t work too 🤔
Super informative video again..Regards from Geoff at Maryville Junction 😎🚒🚒
Hi Geoff,
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, to answer your question on what kind of dcc decoders we are using, I'm a ESU users for the last 10 years or so. I started with Lenz before but I missed the innovation and the sound decoders. Starting with the V3 sound decoders, I'm now fully swapped all V3 out and I'm a very happy V4 sound decoder user.
Main reason to use ESU is the ESU programmer I'm using it to program the decoders with my favorite sounds and not to forget the firmware updates that really improved to performance of the V4.x decoders. And now updating (for free) to the full throttle feature.
I also used other brands but without success (Lenz, Zimo, Bachman, DigiTracks). My loco fleet is now around 35 loco's with sound.
Hi, many thanks for your views which are much appreciated.
You are the first to mention using the ESU programmer. I have also considered getting one butI don’t really understand what exactly you can program into your decoders. Can you swap sound files between decoders?
Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway
Yes you can swap sound files or just parts of it, engine, break sounds are all separate sounds you can edit or put a activity to it. I use it sometimes to swap decoders between locos and reprogram the sounds.
Thanks, clearly I need to do much more research into the programmer.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I have to agree with "North Nottinghamshire Railways", with crossovers in the reverse configuration at the other end of the station would look much better. means more work though.
Rest assured Aussie, I’m on it, there is a plan (albeit in pencil)!
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I know alot of people dislike hornby decoders but, for me personelly their 8 pin decoders I use in all of my heljan class 33s and class 47s and I have had no problems with them.The accelaration and decelaration with these decoders on my heljan models is pretty good when you altar the CVs 3&4. When it comes to Bachmann and hornby locos then I use Bachmanns 8 and 21 pin decoders.(Sorry for any bad spelling)
Hi, you’ve made a very interesting contribution. I think that you’re the first to recommend using Hornsby chips.
Thanks very much, regards Charlie
Sorry Charlie forgot to mention speakers. Right at the beginning of my love affair with DCC sound I discovered a source of various iPhone speakers on E-Bay at a ridiculous price. So I boought some. They are very, very good with great fidelity as you would expect from a smart phone. However their size restricts where they can be used. I have found that they are very good for mounting above the motor assembly on Bachmann and Heljab DMU/DPUs. The basic iPhoone speaker is long and thin, some are wider than others, so they lend themselves nicely to under the roof of diesels or DMUs. They can be used to good effect under the bonnet of Class 20's and most big diesels. However, because of their shape they are not suitable for non-tender steam locos where I use 'sugar-cube' speakers from my favorite retailer, Digitrains. For my fleet of Heljan class 27s I have used the sugar-cub mounted in the underslung fule tanks after drilling a series of holes in the tank bottom.
Whilst the sugar-cube doed=s not have the true fidelity of the iPhone speaker they are very good for such a small unit but do need some sort of sound box, which the iPhone speaker does not.
I have tried to do a comparison between both types of speaker in a tender mounted project and find both are very similat in actual performance when running on the layout. It is when at rest and idling that the iPhone speaker shows its pedigree and advanced speaker design, the sound is so much crisper.
Both are good and each has merit for particular installations. However, the price/performance of the iPhone speaker is far superior but both are in a different post code to the standard Bachmann/Hornby fitted speakers.
As I was writting this I discovered that you can now find a dual bass iPhone speaker on E-Bay. I have just ordered ten so hopefully when the slow boat from China arrives next month I can see how they perform. Ah I see Dave47b has beaten me to it and likes the dual base speaker, it certainly sounds good on his 37 Tractor, nice low bass notes. Always loved the sound of a 37 under load.
Hi Bruce, this is getting creepy.
Yesterday I finished my next video comparing 3 speakers including the duel iPhone one. I used an ESU V4 into a class 37!
Regards Charlie
Nice video Charlie, I also enjoyed your speaker comparison, the EM2 is very bass heavy. If only there was a speaker that had such good low and high end and would fit in a loco!
On Dcc decoders I prefer the gaugemaster omni as it will fit either 8 or 21 pin locos, runs really smooth aswell. Thanks, Chris
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Yes the speaker choice is an interesting one. Thanks for your decoder info. Regards Charlie
I recently bought a new LAISDCC 6 pin NEM 651 decoder for £10.90. Seems to be working fine. It's around half the price of other 6 pin decoders. It's wired for a stay alive capacitor too, but there's no room in my loco to fit one.
That’s very interesting. I have never come across them before.
Good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
I've just had a look at the NMRA ID codes. There must be around 300 companies making DCC equipment now.
Like the idea.. thanks for sharing and keep up the great work... Lance
Hi Lance, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, love your videos and the content in them. In relation to the dcc decoders I have tried a few with my experiences listed. If your after the model numbers let me know and I can dig them out for you.
Hornby basic dcc chip - reliable, small in size very cheap. Only negative was motor seamed to be a bit more noisy and slow crawling was not to my satisfaction. I use this chip in a few locomotives due to space.
Nce - can’t remember the model number. Slow speed was good, and motor noise was significantly less. Biggest drawback was emergency stop didn’t seam to register with the loco it was in. I have had two chips from nce with the same issue with no response from emergency stops. Not a fan of them.
Digitrax - again can’t remember the model number. No issues, slow speed was good, emergency stop worked reliable, motor noise was not an issue.
Lenz silver - my preference. Slow speed is the best I have experienced and smooth. Motor noise was also the most quiet with these. Size is a bit larger compared to the previous ones I’ve tried so sadly can’t fit them to all my locomotives. Functions are aplenty as well from this chip. I live in Australia and I order these to be shipped to my door I like them that much.
Hopefully that helps you and if you want the model numbers I can dig them out for you.
Keep up the great work
Clint
Hi Clint, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Thanks for your decoder details but I would like the model numbers if that isn’t too much trouble.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Chadwick Model Railway Hi Charlie here are the model numbers.
Nce - D15SRP
Nce - P2KSR
Hornby 4 Pin Decoder X9659
Lenz 8 Pin 4 Function Decoder Silver + 10311-01
Digitrax - DZ123 1 amp economy wired decoder small.
Clint
Thanks Clint, that’s great.
I'll join the club. A survey/review of DCC would be of considerable interest to me. I'd be interested in the controllers as well as the decoders. BobUK. (very new to all this!)
I’ll pop it on the list Bob
You could always have bi-directional running so the DMU can run back in the opposite direction. We have a service between Stevenage and Morgate via the Hertford loop. It runs for a couple of miles along the down slow line into Stevenage, and then runs back along the same down slow line to finally cross to the up line just before Watton-at-Stone. OK it needs correct signalling, but would save you a lot of track relaying.
Hi Malcom , thanks for your advice but I do like the complexity of point work.
I think the change will add a little more interest to that area.
Regards Charlie
Hi charlie, nice video, bit unfortunate about the junction but these things happen. Personally, I've used LaisDcc chips for my layout pretty much because they are £10 off ebay but that being said I've yet to run into a problem with them.
Best wishes, Alex.
I’m Alex, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. I’ll have to get one of those Lias chips to check them out.
Many thanks Charlie
I'm another one for lais decoders cheap and reliable and have you thought about using neo magnets for fastening your flap up again cheap from China and very strong. Great video again Charlie, look forward to the next one in a few weeks.Frank
Hi Frank,
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. I’m not too sure that putting magnets so close to the electronics is a good idea. Thanks for the tip and I’ll look into the Lias decoders.
Regards Charlie
Like the platforms very much. Is this something I can get here in the states???
Sorry David but I have no idea. They are made by Peco with a card surface.
Hi Charlie. Will you be doing a film about the PECO unifrog points and the new bullhead track?
Hi Brian yes I will but I’m waiting for their medium radius point to be released.
Hi charlie, can a DCC decoder dim the lights on a a loco , or a passenger coach if you have them fitted to it.
Hi Dave, yes, with the right decoder.
I’ll cover this in a couple of weeks.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I would be interested in the choice of replacement speakers you are thinking of using, I have replaced a couple of them with iphone 6 speakers and although I think the sound is much fuller they are not as loud. I believe that two speakers can be used, but I haven't tried that yet, not really sure if they are connected in parallel or series and how a TTS decoder would cope with two speakers.
Craig
Hi Craig.
Purely by coincidence I’ve recently bought a pair of iPhone speakers assembled for loco fitting. I shall do a quick video to show their performance.
Sadly, I have no idea regarding a TTS decoders abilities.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie
I really like your videos very informative. I have only used lenz decoders and have had no problems. Any chance you can do a how to video on lnstallling a sound chip and speakers. I appreciate you are a busy person but it would be appreciated for a novice modeller.
Mike Tee
Hi Mike, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. I will gladly include sound chip fitting. Regards Charlie
Doncaster is like that however you’ll need a signal half way along platform! As for chips I’ve found the lais work well except in power thirsty heljan locos
Many thanks, I’ll check out the Lias,
Regards Charlie
Neat solution. I agree with you about super elevation. Enjoy your break (holiday?)
Thanks Alan and good luck with your layout , regards Charlie
the other pro typical way is. the unit would continue out of the platform to the other end then crossover from the right hand side as we look at it. if there was a set of points there.
as the big railway did not like facing points on main lines if they did not need them. in case they failed under fast trains
Hi Paul,
My plan is to have another crossover on the right hand side just after the hill before the viaduct, fingers crossed.
Regards Charlie
In my opinion I'd steer clear of Hornby Decoders. I've had multiple decoders blow up, had wires come off or even end up with snapped wires. I would however reccommend Hattons own branded ones as the wires plug into the decoder so you don't get any wires coming off the decoder, they have yet to blow up and they generally have a better quality feel to them. Also going off reviews other people have done I'd also reccommend Lenz decoders but they can be slightly more expensive.
Hi Matty, many thanks for your views.
That’s exactly what I want.
Regards Charlie
Nice one Charlie. What size wood and type of baseboard would you recommend for a layout?
Hi Gonads!
For a permanent layout, I use 12mm ply. I bought mine from B&Q and had them cut the boards to size. It’s heavy but shouldn’t warp. It will still need cross members. 25 x 50mm or thereabouts.
Regards Charlie
dcc chips. Had about 20 dcc locos so far. Only bad experience was putting hattons dcc chips into Heljan locos (Kestrel, Class 58, Falcon) where I had to take the chips out and put back to 12V dc. Everything worked fine functionally but had great difficulty starting the loco off. It would slowly move off then stop, slowly move off and stop and so on. If it every did get to speed it would be ok. Probable explanation is that the chip cant provide the high starting currents required by the Heljan motors. I've used the same Hattons chips successfully on Bachmann locos so I don't think its the Hattons brand and also I was using different chips in my experiments so I don't think its a rogue chip. I'd be interested if people have chipped these Heljan locos what brand they used.
Thanks Alan, that’s exactly the kind of information that I’m after.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Is there any generic CDC decoders that can be put in any locks. I have some I don't know what they are.
I’m no expert on this but using 8 pin decoders and removing the plug is normally the way to go.
There are many videos here to help.
Regards Charlie
I would like to see more on decoders, that is the best for your money, Rob McCrain in the US, a great collector of UK model stock was not impressed with Bachmann coaches on elevated track. Good planning on the wiring methodical
Hi Nigel,
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video.
I’m working on the decoder video and all info helps.
Regards Charlie
I would never use a Hornby decoder because CV2 can not be altered for slow starts. Geoff. W.
I’m on your side Geoff.
Regards Charlie
Charlie, great video, what kind of platforms are you using on this layout, TY
Currently Peco platforms but that might change.
Perhaps two crossovers would be a little more prototypical. Although they would take up more room it would look good with the three or four car dmu snaking across them. Similar to that at Doncaster platform 3 I believe. Just a thought?
Thanks for the tip, I’ll try to look it up online. Regards Charlie
Should that crossover not trail on a fast line, so be reversed into at the other end of the station?
Hi Robo, I take your point but I already have a point network on the right hand side and I wanted to bring in trains, such a three car DMU, without having to reverse.
Good luck with your layout.
Regards Charlie
Really interesting video, enjoyed that mate!
Joe
Thanks Joe and good luck with your layout. Regards Charlie
Its too late now but....eh.
I bought two Hattons 6 pin decoders for a class 03 conversion. BOTH of them blew up and killed the class 03 dead.....so I took the motor out binned it, took the cab off the class 03 and wrapped it in "tarpaulin" and stuck it at the end of a siding XD
I know the feeling!
Have you thought of using a double slip instead of a diamond crossing?
Yes I have and also a single slip. As I don’t need access to the “fast down” in either direction, the diamond seems the logical answer.
Regards Charlie
Hey Charlie. Liking the track plan changes - I think that would really work. Regarding the speakers, have a look at both the Zimo Dumbo’s and iPhone speakers.....both are fantastic sounding and cheap!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Tase and thanks for the speaker tips. Regards Charlie
Not keen on the standard Hornby R8249 decoders. They don't support CV2 Vstart, CV6 Vmid or CV5 Vhigh. They're also low rated, being only 500mA continuous motor output current and 1.0 Amp peak. Most other decoders I've seen are 1.0 Amp continuous and 2.0 Amp peak.
Thanks, that’s just the kind of information that I’m after.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, can you tell me what are the classes of locomotives in the video?
Left to right,
9F, 35, 37, 25 and 08.
See, you say its no fun but really, I'm beginning to suspect you're the kind of guy who genuinely does love the modelling and tinkering side as much as you do the running of the models. I also suspect that if you actually ever managed to create a 'perfect' layout, you'd be bored to tears after 5 minutes and end up being sat there thinking of how to tweak it.
Not in anyway saying its a bad thing of course; it does make you a fountain of information and ideas. :D
Hi Buck, drat, my secret is out.
You are probably right. It’s only when you revisit something after a couple of days that you might realise that there’s a better solution.
Then, I can’t bear the idea of not going back.
Good luck with your project.
Regards Charlie
It is said that a model railroad is never truly "finished"! If a modeler does actually "finish" their railroad, it's usually not long before it is torn down and a new one started. At the rate I'm going, mine should be finished about the year 2765! :D
Go for it Flyboy.
Regards Charlie
looking at the flap, you could replace each screw with a pair of strong magnets glued with superglue to the wood... now, to open the flap, just yank it ;-)
then push it in and it locks into place
An interesting option AJ.
Surely that cross over would of been done at the other end of the platforms and from slow line to slow line...... very unsafe practise but modelling interest for sure. The unloaded local service might cross the two fast lanes and be at the head of the return platform. I am sure your experience and that of your friends out matches mine, but I still want to ask why this way and not that way.
I think that you will find that a lot has changed since that video George.
SuperElevation is fine in the real world, and has a purpose. In models it is more cosmetic and doesn’t truly have a purpose. That said, when all mathematical equations are taken into account, on the real thing, these would have restricting effects on 4mm SCALE. True scale is impossible as the one thing we can not replicate is weight, drag and momentum. This should be a serious consideration when planning Super Elevation as we can’t reproduce the weight, drag or momentum in model form. The result COULD compromise smooth running as running wheel weight, suspension, vehicular weight and centrifugal force are not scaled! These are all in a 12”:1 foot world.
My message isn’t a criticism, more an observation and request, for consideration, when planning high speed running tracks on a model. There is a tendency for wheels, which we rely heavily upon for pick-up, to lift from the contact surface when traversing the start, or end particularly, in a section of Super Elevation.
Make sure that this is allowed for when designing track work and in understanding the principals to apply may help.
Best wishes.
Hi Bobby,
You have made some interesting points and hopefully, with good track work, the pick-up issue should be minimises.
Rest assured that my findings will be honest.
Regards Charlie
This may be more of a problem for steam loco models with their long wheelbases and if they do not have any suspension. Bogie diesel locos would not be troubled as much. The goal is to have the transition to Super elevation as gradual and smooth as possible.
ESU loksound v4.0 and zimo dumbo speakers.
Thank you, but do you recommend them?
I recommend them always. All my loco's i've converted to ESU and Zimo. They may cost considerably more, but hey, you get what you pay for and i'd pay more for quality any day of the week. Bachmann etc, have to lift their game before they even come close to ESU etc. And with the advent of the lokprogramer by ESU and JMRI the possibilities are endless unlike these el-cheapo chinese made decoder's and speakers on the market. Go with them Charlie. You won't regret it.
Great info. Thanks very much.
In my opinion ESU make the best decoders. I find the MRC and Digitrax not to be any good.
Hi Scott, many thanks for your view but what were the issues with MRC and Digitrax?
Regards Charlie
MRC are in general the worse decoders made. The motor control is poor and sound is terrible. Digitrax also has poor motor control and from what I hear their customer service is not the best. TCS make good decoders with great motor control. Tsunami are good but fell behind ESU and TCS. QSI is another not great decoder.
Thanks Scott that’s most helpful.
Regards Charlie