depends on the run

Most of the runs are not DCC friendly. Micro Trains is using a modified version of the chassis for their SW1500. They are going to be releasing a new run soon that should be DCC friendly.

Here is an honest review of them

http://www.spookshow.net/loco/llsw.html

http://www.spookshow.net/loco/mtsw1500.html

It can be converted to DCC

Depending on how comfortable you are taking it apart and making a few solder connections, it can be converted to DCC. There are several decoders available that will fit without giving up any of the weight. A quick search of the 'net brings up a number of sites explaining the procedure in detail, with photos. (As it happens I'm just getting ready to convert one myself). This is probably the best link I've found:

http://n-scale-dcc.blogspot.ca/search/label/Loco%3A%20Life%20Like%20SW9%2F1200

While the DCCblog is a great

While the DCCblog is a great resource, instead of using the Z2 there are two other options.  Digitrax and TCS have both released a decoder that replaces the DC board in the nose.  It requires running/soldering a wire to each of the motor tabs to 2 points on the decoder.  On the MT SW1500, the leads are already there, they simply pressfit into the decoder board.  Just make sure as with any decoder install, that the frame is insulated.  I had a slight issue when I put DCC in the 1500, had to slide a piece of tape under the decoder in the nose section.

Decoders

TCS (MT 1500) and Digitrax (DN126M2) now make one that replaces the light board.  You  would have to add wires from the brush caps to the plugs on the decoder and of course isolate the motor from the frame.  Micro Trains got it designed for their SW 1500 project.  I had already done the Z2 in the one I converted to an SW 10 by the time these came out, so I don't have any experience with them.

As I recall, the frame modifications MT made were for their shell.

very helpful info

Thankyou folks for the info, I think I will look into converting it into DCC ,as I am comfortable with my soldering skills.Besides, sounds like a fun project and added new skills and knowledge can only be gained.

Cheers all.

Paul 

Couple more links for you

https://www.tcsdcc.com/Customer_Content/Installation_Pictures/N_Scale/Life_Like/SW1200/SW1200.html

http://www.digitrax.com/tsd/KB388/dz121-for-the-n-scale-life-like-sw1200/

So, yes, it can be done, but you sure picked a bit of a challenge for your first DCC install in N scale.

Hmmmm..indeed.

Yes, I see what you mean ,but fortunately I know somebody who can help me in this regard and he also sells DCC components.

Hopefully I`ll learn something, and be more careful with what I purchase in the future,although I think I`ve come leaps and bounds since I first caught the model RR bug.

If worse comes to worse ,I could always use it as an expensive dummy loco  LOL

Thankyou

Paul 

The wheels?

I don't know about the Sw9/1200 switchers but I have a LL GP20 and it had quite large flanges . I ground them down a bit but it's not an easy job for the inexperienced modeler....DaveB

Wheel flanges

The wheel flanges look about normal.Overall the loco is very nicely built and the detail is great.Be a shame to use it as dummy.

Paul