If a LC engine ever fails, is it relatively simple to convert it into an old fashioned conventional runner? Is it something an experienced repair tech could do?
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A under $5 for a bridge rectifier would change track ac to dc. It would give forward only at that point.
A dpdt switch, on the loco, for reverse if you wanted it.
Or for change to dc power, diving the motor from a "power pack" transformer (big ho or g scale for the amps required)
Or replace the boards with one from the Electric RR Co., Bachmann etc..
The motor is actually dc. The boards componants need a change to dc too, just to "think". That ac to dc happens on a board with a BR or diodes arranged to form a BR. I.e., you just have to feed the motor dc somehow.
For those engines and any others that loose the boards, you can buy a Dallee model 400 reverse unit. They work with AC or DC motors. Cost is in the $40.00 range last time I used one. An easy way out to obtain F-N-R-N-F. No special skills needed. Being able to read will make it happen. Great product for very short money.
Either put an electronic E-unit in it or an electric RR control board. Keep in mind if you go this route, you'll have no sound unless you buy a soundboard to go into it.
Lionel sells replacement LC boards. Depending on the loco they are either $45 or $75.
The $45 board is about the same price as an electronic e-unit. The ERR command board is only $5 less than the LC board but has no sound. It would probably be much easier to just replace the LC board.
The only really hard part about a conversion to new boards is mounting.
Most connections between boards are plugs and sockets.
Simple leaves; rollers , motor ,head light, at least; but how about couplers(?) , smoke(?), a slide switch or two for e-unit lock and programming,(?), speaker(?), volume pot (?) battery(?). Still simple, just more of it.
Marty Fitzhenry posted:you can buy a Dallee model 400 reverse unit. They work with AC or DC motors. Cost is in the $40.00 range last time I used one.
They seem to be $50 plus shipping these days. Still a good deal.
For $50, I'd be more inclined to add a little bit of money to it and go for the ERR AC or DC Commander. You get command upgrade capability and a good reverse unit. You can also simply add synchronized sound with the ERR RailSounds Commander. At $50, IMO the Dallee unit is overpriced.
If i remember right Model Rectifier Corporation has the Genie system in o-gauge. Not quite lionchief, but from what I read similar. http://www.modelrectifier.com/...-locogenie-s/222.htm
Allin, I have also been watching the MRC Genie system, waiting for the O products for over year. I have pretty much given up, they are losing their market opportunity. Too bad.
I have enough LC+ locos now, and with both Legacy and DCS, my interest in converting my Williams fleet is waning. Will probably sell rather than hope for an upgrade path to wireless. Too bad, I have some great running Williams locos. Some chance I will do ERR upgrades.
Guys, we are living in great times in the hobby. You can do everything mentioned in this post. The only limit is how much you want to spend.
