what model do you have....

modelltag.se

- which loco I was planning on Märklin 3030/3043
- which digital protocol you are using: MFX
- which type of decoder: starting with simple and probably will go with only simple for a while
- which central station you are using I am using a Mobile Station 2 (number 60653)

Hi,

so the process is quite simple and involves two steps:

1. Make the motor DC

There are a two approaches. You can replace the whole motor with one of the three Märklin retrofit motors available. The advantage on this approach is that you get 5 pole armature, which gives more precise control over speed. The other approach is to install ESU permanent (hamo) magnet and keep other parts of the old motor. This is very cheap solution, but the end result will not be as good.

2. Install a decoder
Take out the old reversing unit and use the space available to install a digital decoder. The price will vary between 40 € to 100 € depending on what brand and features you like:

ESU:
LokPilot 5 - non sound decoder
LokSound 5 - a sound decoder, but you will also need LokProgrammer to install the sound files, or ask the seller to do it for you

Märklin
mLD3 - non sound decoder
mSD3 - sound decoder. Comes in three version with preloaded steam, electric or diesel sounds. To install prototype sound files, you need either CS3 or the decoder programming USB dongle (+windows PC)

In my opinion, ESU gives the best results.

Also what needs to be considered are the lights. You will want to install LED lights. 2-3mm size is fine. For these you will also need a series resistor. I use 2,7 kohm resistors for a brightness level that I like.

I would say that wiring and installing extensive illumination featues is actually the most difficult and time consuming part of the whole process.

YouTube has extensive set of videos on how to do all this.

And by no means, if you can solder, this is not difficult.

BR,
Eino