How to convert N Gauge Bachmann Thomas The Tank Engine to DCC

This guide covers the following models:

• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Thomas The Tank Engine 1 (58791)

The process for converting other locos in the Thomas & Friends range is broadly similar, for example:

• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Origin James 5 (58790)
• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Percy The Small Engine 6 (58792)
• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) James The Red Engine (58793)
• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Toby The Tram 7 (58794)
• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Emily (58795)
• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Gordon The Express Engine 4 (58796)
• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Paxton (58797)
• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Diesel (58798)
• Bachmann N Scale (N Gauge) Henry (58799)

Step 1 - Remove body

The conversion is fairly straightforward but requires a very small decoder, as space inside the body is tight. Here, we have used a Zimo MX615.

Remove the screws from the underside of the loco, and gently remove the body.

Step 2 - Remove PCB

Desolder all four wires from the PCB. Remove the PCB and discard it, the space created will be used for the decoder.

Step 3 - Fit decoder

Solder the black wires to pins 3 and 4 of your decoder, these are your track power connections. Solder the blue and red wires to pins 1 and 2, these are your motor connections. Add some Kapton tape to make sure the decoder cannot short against the metal parts of the body.

Step 4 - Test direction

Place the loco on your test track and make sure it runs in the correct direction. If not, swap the red and blue wires around.

Step 5 - Refit body

Refit the body, and you are done.