Tempted to Convert to DCC/Sound?

[RobertInOntario]

Robert:
The old Hornby Dublo locos are a major conversion problem as the chassis casting is solid from the axle holes to the motor brush.
Old TriAng is a simple conversion as the motor brushes are totally accessible and the first step is just to put another insulating sleeve on the brush that isn't insulated. Then break the existing wire on the other side and hook up the decoder wires. I don't think it shoul cost $200 unless it includes a sound decoder.
The Pancake motors (the tender drive units and the same drive in diesels) may be a bit more problem.
Sound units, though, could be more problem -- matching to the locomotive.
You may be able to run the sound units on DC with a separate sound controller; I do this with Dayle's Galloping Goose.

Thanks, David. One guy at a train show once told me that Triang locos were easy to convert but it makes sense that Dublo ones would be difficult. Have you ever considered DCC or sound?

I went to the Barrie train show today (it was excellent) and I got some advice there. Apparently, you can convert gradually, i.e. one loco at a time and have you layout as part DC and part DCC.

Rob