Can I run a multiple unit consist using Legacy engines with the Lionchief app?

I don’t think so. The Cab2 system has the ability to create what’s called a lash-up, which is essentially a multi unit train. The lion chief app is not able to do this, since it can only link with one engine at a time.

Chessiechick

    What you may want to do is pick up a TMCC base and a Cab1 controller which still can be found at reasonable prices either used or brand new. Using TMCC you can set up TMCC/TMCC engine lash ups as well as Legacy/Legacy engine lash ups using Train numbers 1-9. I would avoid TMCC/Legacy lash ups. At my train club the DELMARVA RR Club in Delaware/Maryland we use TMCC and Cab1s to run both TMCC and Legacy lash ups without any issues.

JohnB

It's indeed no on the LC Bluetooth app.

No- the BT app will only control one train at a time.

Thanks, @Calebro, @JohnB, @gunrunnerjohn, and @RSJB18. I was afraid that would be the answer.

Question - roughly how many freight cars can I expect to pull using just the one loco? How many if I used both locos in a lash up with the Legacy control system?

I'll be running a mix of Atlas O, MTH, and Weaver cars (hoppers, tank cars, boxcars, and a caboose). The layout will be Atlas track, Ross switches, minimum O-54. Part of the O-54 loop with have a straight run with a max grade of 2%, followed a U-shaped curve and then a 2% grade in the other direction.

If I can pull enough cars with one loco, I may choose to order the NS SuperBass unit instead and use that as my second locomotive in the consist. That would give me the visual that I want, plus some extra sounds that I don't care all that much about. However, it really irks me that it's nearly as expensive as a locomotive with a motor.

At this point, I'm not sure if or when I will buy a used or new Legacy control system. I realize Legacy would give me extra features, but since I'm not up and running yet, I'm not sure whether those features will be worth it to me or not.

@chessiechick posted:

Thanks, @Calebro, @JohnB, @gunrunnerjohn, and @RSJB18. I was afraid that would be the answer.

Question - roughly how many freight cars can I expect to pull using just the one loco? How many if I used both locos in a lash up with the Legacy control system?

I'll be running a mix of Atlas O, MTH, and Weaver cars (hoppers, tank cars, boxcars, and a caboose). The layout will be Atlas track, Ross switches, minimum O-54. Part of the O-54 loop with have a straight run with a max grade of 2%, followed a U-shaped curve and then a 2% grade in the other direction.

If I can pull enough cars with one loco, I may choose to order the NS SuperBass unit instead and use that as my second locomotive in the consist. That would give me the visual that I want, plus some extra sounds that I don't care all that much about. However, it really irks me that it's nearly as expensive as a locomotive with a motor.

At this point, I'm not sure if or when I will buy a used or new Legacy control system. I realize Legacy would give me extra features, but since I'm not up and running yet, I'm not sure whether those features will be worth it to me or not.

I've pulled a ton of cars with two engines, 115 to be exact.  However, I freely admit I was probably overdoing it.  I think you can safely assume one engine can pull 20-25 modern freight cars with fast angle wheels and needlepoint axles.  Articulated steamers do better, I ran a 54 car tank train with one Legacy Mallet, and it had no issues at all, including the 2.5% grade.  Weight is king, which is why the steamer does better, that's assuming that the motor is up to the task.

@chessiechick posted:

Thanks, @Calebro, @JohnB, @gunrunnerjohn, and @RSJB18. I was afraid that would be the answer.

Question - roughly how many freight cars can I expect to pull using just the one loco? How many if I used both locos in a lash up with the Legacy control system?

I'll be running a mix of Atlas O, MTH, and Weaver cars (hoppers, tank cars, boxcars, and a caboose). The layout will be Atlas track, Ross switches, minimum O-54. Part of the O-54 loop with have a straight run with a max grade of 2%, followed a U-shaped curve and then a 2% grade in the other direction.

If I can pull enough cars with one loco, I may choose to order the NS SuperBass unit instead and use that as my second locomotive in the consist. That would give me the visual that I want, plus some extra sounds that I don't care all that much about. However, it really irks me that it's nearly as expensive as a locomotive with a motor.

At this point, I'm not sure if or when I will buy a used or new Legacy control system. I realize Legacy would give me extra features, but since I'm not up and running yet, I'm not sure whether those features will be worth it to me or not.

Chessiechick,

    Running a Legacy powered unit and a non powered Super Base Legacy (Dummy) engine would allow you the option of running in Bluetooth using the Lionchief app. In fact if you are running say a SD70Ace as the powered engine you can use any brand dummy unit and save a few bucks instead of purchasing a Super base dummy engine. Atlas, MTH and Kline have made non powered engines. You would have to consider model of the dummy engine modern with modern or first generation with first generation. If pairing modern engines road names become less important as foreign power is common place in today’s world.

JohnB

@gunrunnerjohn - 20 to 25 freight cars should be plenty given the size of my layout (16' x 16').

@JohnB - I'm on the prowl for dummy engines now. Thanks for the suggestion!

@chessiechick posted:

@gunrunnerjohn - 20 to 25 freight cars should be plenty given the size of my layout (16' x 16').

You'll be fine with a single engine for that consist.

Chessiechick,

     A good place to start your search for a non powered (dummy) engine is the For Sale or Trade Forum. The Legacy engine you are looking to buy, a SD40-2 NS is a easy one to match as they are still running those so you can match it up with just about any semi modern to modern diesel out there. Just make sure it is scale engine not traditional sized. If it is RailKing be careful as some are scale some are not. Good luck with your hunt.

JohnB