Hornby Dublo DP1 Deltic Prototype

Kit: MS440C; EM1; MGOBLOCK stay-alive

Arguably one of Hornby's best models to date, the DP1 has a diecast body, lots of detail, and plenty of features.

A lift-out panel in the roof provides access to the 21pin socket - remove the blanking plate and insert an MS440C. A factory SugarCube speaker is already fitted, with scope for an optoinal larger speaker.

A 2 pin connector loom is in there too, which is designed for a Hornby stay-aive unit - the unit to go in the fuel tank. For our Zimo, we simply cut the plug off and reuse it for an MGOBLOCK instead.

We have a special project for the DP1, which gives control of all of the lighting features, and the fans, though operation of the fans includes some automatic logic including startup of 1 fan followed by the other with varying speeds (clever stuff).

With careful removal of the main PCB, access to add a larger speaker is provided. We tried a Breeze38X20X08, which snuggly fits, and also tried an EM1 for which the model is designed. Take your pick!

If going with the Breeze, a simple platform is needed to support the speaker as it is narrower than the ledges in the body.

Stay-alive is easy enough - chop the 2pin plug and join those wires to the MS440's stay-alive wires at the top.

The MGOBLOCK can be connected to the loom provided in the fuel tank. Just ensure you keep polarity the same top and bottom (red for positive makes sense).

We have control of the markers, red tails, cab lights, console light, engine bay lights and mars lights. The model also includes cornering sensors, which work with the TXS Hornby decoder to allow automatic wheel-flange sounds. This is the only feature not possible with the Zimo MS440C as the pin used is not one of the ones that can be switched to be an input on the Zimo.

Please note that these guides are provided as useful resources for you, as-is. YouChoos cannot be held responsible for errors in the information, or for any damage caused to your models or equipment if you choose to follow any of the steps detailed here.