Mark:
I’m a big proponent of keep-alives in all DCC’d locos. The ESU’s keep-alive version is a bit idiosyncratic (and by decoder version, no less), whereas you can get a TCS decoder with integrated keep-alive. Very simple. With a keep-alive,
you should not need a flywheel to achieve smooth operation. I’m also a big proponent of dual mode (DC/DCC) decoders, if there’s any possibility you might run the model on a “foreign road”. But be advised that keep-alives do not work in most (all?) decoders
when run in DC mode. NCE’s literature is clear on this point; I emailed TCS and Soundtraxx, and got the same answer. I haven’t polled ESU.
You will need to make very sure the original OF motor doesn’t draw too much current at stall, or the model will eat decoders. If the stall current approaches or exceeds 1 amp, you’re in deep kimchee. This project may need a swap to a
can, coreless, or square motor to get the current down. This will probably improve running smoothness as well.
Good painters are scarce these days. Start networking early, ask for photos of recently finished similar projects.
Really scrutinize those photos. Most painters would rather be painting than researching, so do your own thorough research, and be very clear (in print and figures) what your vision for the model is. I’ve attached an example “Painting & Lettering Guide”,
which I generate for every project I want to commission. It works for me and my painters. It’s a PowerPoint file; I hope you have the capability to open it. Not only does a P&L Guide communicate your vision, it also allows a painter to give you a decent
price estimate for the project. Be advised that these are usually estimates, not quotes. Weathering, if you want it, is usually only done on an hourly basis, and depending on what you want (provide photos of
exactly what that is!) can get pricey. Count on a lead time of 3 – 6 months with any good painter. Some are running well over a year. Never, ever, bug a painter about progress, unless this is the only project you ever want done by that painter.
My painters are all busy enough that they do not want new referrals. Please don’t ask.
Good luck.
-Eric
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Thanks for all the information, everyone! Your comments were very helpful.
After some negotiations with my wife, I've ordered that S-2a. It's my Christmas present.
I hope it's in as good a shape as the listing indicates.
I'll need to convert it to DCC with sound - probably either a TCS Wowsound decoder or an ESU decoder. Any suggestions?
Then it'll need painting and weathering. Anyone know a good custom painter?
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