DCC Shop - HO scale Proto 2000 0-6-0 Steam Locomotive - DCC, Sound, and Lighting Install
In this new series, Dan is focusing on DCC installations. Unlike the Model Building series, which usually involves a lot of work on both the outside and inside of a model, this series is about adding, replacing and/or upgrading the electronics inside a model.
For this episode, Dan chose an HO scale Proto 2000 USRA 0-6-0 steam locomotive. This locomotive is a little unusual for this series because it was already taken apart. Dan bought the model used off eBay some years ago, and it arrived with several cosmetic issues. He had to fix all that before starting the DCC install.
In this episode, Dan tries out new technique (for him, anyway) to make headlight lenses. Steam engine headlights are typically larger than many diesel headlights, and require a different treatment. Dan makes some lenses using acrylic rod.
Dan shapes the lenses, sands them, and polishes them to a high gloss finish.
The results are pretty cool, and the lights look good both when they're on and when they're off.
The goal for this engine is to install an ESU LokSound 5 DCC and sound decoder, a Soundtraxx Mega Bass speaker, a LokSound Power Pack (keep alive), and to replace the factory bulb lights with LEDs in new headlight castings.
Dan discusses downloading an appropriate sound set from the LokSound website, installing it in the decoder, and doing some rudimentary programming using the ESU LokProgrammer software.
He also has tips for reassembly, and how to keep the wiring neat so that the tender shell goes back on properly.
ESU LokSound decoders have really good electronic chuff sync. Dan talks about how to adjust that so that the locomotive sounds as good as it runs!
Some of you have been asking for DCC install videos, and we listened!
Dan has a lot more model trains like this one that need DCC, so there is plenty of material for more episodes!
Join us for some DCC model railroading fun!
#modeltrains #train #scalemodels #dcc #hoscale #loksound #steamtrains