Hello all. First post. First train. I just inherited several brand new, in-the-box, DC (and AC) locomotives and a whole bunch of HO military scenario from Germany. I'd like to simply test the locos to see if the gears still work after years of storage. Rather than buying a $75 transformer/power cab to run a full train, can't I just hook up a 1.5 volt battery to the track and make a locomotive go? Any thoughts?
I would connect up a "garden variety" 9 volt battery to the rails to check the DC locos. A 1.5 volt battery wouldn't even start most motors much less run the loco. As for AC locos, you will need an old LIONEL or some other power supply (maybe a power supply from something) to give the AC current to check motors. Unless I am mistaken, there are no AC batteries around. If you live near a hobby store, take them by and check out on their test equipment. Good luck. Woodie
Actually, AC motors run fine on DC. Just not the other way around. "Universal Motors" is what they used to be called, or "field wound". Smiths and Lucas used them for heater and wiper motors late into at least the 60's, if not even more current. Reversing circuits still work, but you may need more VOLTAGE on some of those. Dave
RESULTS WOW! You guys are great! I just ran my German-made Roco, Fleischmann, and Maerklin locomotives on a US track with only a bank of 1.5 VDC batteries for power and the trips went well. Even after 10 years of storage, the brand-new locos ran smoothly and crisply. Success! Now I've got to figure out if I want to become a dedicated hobbyist, or shall I SELL all these trains, cars and German military tanks? WHERE do train hobbyists go for their stuff? EBay or hobbyist sites? Any ideas? (And thanks for the encouragement.)
Click on the trainstore link at the top of the page. You can sell items on this forum. Ebay is also very good for selling local and world wide . On ebay you can get a cheap power supply for DC trains. Older Bachmann transformers go for as little as $5.00. Good for testing and small loops. If you build a layout go for something better. Bob
