Ryan Kunkle is a nationally recognized professional model train expert and writer with over 25 years of experience. Price Received. If this happens, you will need another transformer to share the load. A solid and stranded wire of the same gauge will be the same total diameter. Doug Murphy 'We few, we happy few, we band of brothers' Henry V. I am a person with a very active inner child. As an example, look at these two cars closely: While both are gondola cars and run on O Gauge track, note how the car on the left is much longer than the one on the right. Effort. The larger transformers could operate up to four trains independently. Now, I diconnected that old dinosaur and connected two separate smaller ones which weren't powerful enough to run my Amtrack MTH trains. He directs production at Lionel, the premier model train manufacturer, and he istheformer president of theConrail HistoricalSociety. However, if you begin adding more than 1 or 2 cars, be sure to get some extra track, or your longer train will be chasing its tail very quickly. Stop it with your hand to full stall, and it goes up to four amps--sixty watts--trying to pull. I'll take this information and run with it to help get me started. White and black are common selections. I've read that it is good practice to add feeders every 10 sections of track or sothat seems like a lot but I suppose that beats having "dead" spots in the track. What size Lionel transformer do I need? its the amount of engines you need to worry about, I'm currently running my entire layout on a single DC power supply that came with an Athearn engine/track set. QUOTE: by Skyray "Typical engineer--you need a technician. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. Although I am an electrical engineer, I just add stuff until the transformer gets too warm and then I branch off and add another. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Expanding the basic oval from the set is the quickest way to add more interest to your trains.
6 Best Transformer For Ho Trains - LEDS.CC They do not include a track or power supply, so you will need to buy both separately. Part of the Lionel line since the 1930s, the gateman today is offered not only with a regular railroad-type figure, but also in versions with Santa Claus and a nutcracker figure for the Christmas season. Transformer capacity is rated in KVA (kilo-volt-amperes). The 110-wattLionel RW is a cheap option, and the 125-watt LW, while a bit more expensive, gives a bit more power. And both of them give more wattage per handle than a KW or ZW. There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, so you'll need to consider what you want to do and measure your options accordingly. All Lionel transformer comparisons should start here. 24v, 120v, 208v, 240v, 480v, and 600v). It was one of Lionel's more venerable postwar products, lasting on the market for 18 years from 1948 to 1966. I thought an ENGINEER was the guy driving the train? It's expensive, but the same factors that drove KW prices down are also driving ZW prices down. In addition to the wire itself, connectors like crimp-on terminals and terminal blocks must also be purchased in larger (and more expensive) sizes. The thing that eats current is a lot of light bulbs on the layout. I'm sure I'll need more help along the way, so I'll be checking back in with more silly questions! Our community is FREE to join. If your going to run anything more that what came with the set then you should probably upgrade to something a little bigger.
Calculating transformer size for layout size - Classic Toy - Trains Whatever colors and pattern you choose, just make sure to keep a good notebook handy to reference later. The smaller of the two is #12028, which turns your oval into this: There is also the larger 12031 plan, which has a couple extra straight track pieces included, creating this: Even better, one or more of the expansion sets can be combined to create even more interesting track layouts. Lionel makes a seemingly infinite number of cars to in a variety of colors, types, and road names. Hello, I'm new to this site, and completely new to toy trains also - so please pardon my ignorance! Like command control, these trains still require a constant voltage to the rails. Classic Toy Trains 5-Year Collection 2015-2019 DVD-ROM. Outdoor railroads are, of course, an exception! Theres nothing inherently wrong with them, though I would shy away from the smaller transformers that are less than 75 watts, including the modern CW-40. Good choices are the Lionel 32923 Accessory Transformer, or another 80-watt transformer like the one included in your set, #14198. Understanding the difference is important in getting the right power supply for your needs. --Heck, watching one train run is great, Ill bet TWO would be even more fun! Lionel makes two expansion sets for this purpose. Retrofitting a subway line into existing benchwork - and are subway sets still being made? For most layouts, and most scales, Number14 stranded wire will work best for your bus. To my knowledge, you should have no compatibility issues with a pure sine wave track feed with any major brand locomotive. RemembertheVeterans. The same is true for other electronic projects around your layout and inside buildings, train cars, and even locomotives. From 25 Watts to 275 Watts, a Lionel transformer could be found for every power requirment from simple circles of track to extensive railroads. I can remember a time when a Lionel ZW would set you back $275.
What lionel transformer do i need - Go Quick Qna Within that range, it is generally recommended to go for the most robust power supply possible. Lionel CW80's can be found for around $50 at Greenberg and other train shows. I justhave a very basic 027 set (guessin' mid 80's?). Use this index to see additional details about the individual transformers issued by Lionel during the post-war period. I am assuming that your starter set came with either o27, brown ties, or 031, black ties, track and it runs well as is. If you like, tell us more about yourself. The iconic and legendary 270-wattLionel ZW was the biggest and best transformer Lionel made in the postwar era.
Lionel Electric Toy Train Transformer Identification Guide --The O Gauge Railroading Primer, by Christopher Ritchie. A small set that came with track, transformer, etc. (10 lights X . Lionel Ready-to-Play is a large sized train that's made to be affordable and easy-to-use for both kids and adults alike.
PDF Lionel CW-80 Transformer Owner's Manual - thomconte.com www.spankybird.shutterfly.com, God bless TCA 05-58541 Benefactor Member of theNRA, Member of the American Legion, Retired Boss Hog of Roseyville , KC&D Qualified. On a large loop of track you will need to have multiple drops, hook-ups, to the transformer because if you only have one hook up the train will get slower the father away it gets from the transformer. All Lionel transformer comparisons should include the common 1033, RW, LW, KW and ZW transformers. You don't want to try to solder even Number 16 gauge wire right to your rails, however. Join Today! A new ZW will run you in the neighborhood of $450.00 or a little less depending on your dealership. Ill try to find a link to it for you. It is also a good idea to run your accessories off of a separate power supply and wire grid from the trains themselves. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. If youre looking for Lionel transformer comparisons, youve come to the right place. For a classic setup of a single freight train running on a 48 (or smaller) sheet of plywood, a 90-wattLionel 1033 or 1044 is an excellent choice. Lionel, LLC continued to manufacture and market trains and accessories in O scale under the Lionel brand and S gauge under the American Flyer brand. An Essential Guide for Toy Train Enthusiasts! For Lionel power the 45 watts is good for a 4 by 8 as a rule of thumb to compensate poor track you just use more feeders. Price Received. If you're experiencing problems with your wiring due to humidity, for example, you are going to face even greater issues with the trains and tracks themselves. Actually it was a train show with varied trains of all different eras being run I have mostly MTH trains though and they wouldn't run because the transformer that was running wasn't powerful enough to cycle through my MTH trainsounds. The Lionel ZW is Lionel's most iconic transformer of the 1950s and 1960s, and perhaps one of its most iconic products, period. Transformer sizing for new systems The wire can also be purchased as solid or stranded. Its a good transformer. The choice of a control system is somewhat, but not necessarily, dependent on which manufacturers engines you prefer or have the most of. Ive talked about why here. That said, if youre uncomfortable fixing a transformer, I wont look down on you for buying one someone else fixed up. The transition section (#12040) allows you to connect conventional O Gauge track to FasTrack.
Model Train Scales & Gauges: The Lionel Trains Guide The two types of cars will connect together just fine, but when side-by-side in a train, they may look a bit odd. Ive talked more about the KW here. Keeping in mind that I will likely continue to add to the layout as my addiction develops! --I need a station for the train to stop at. Turn on the throttle, then short the A and U posts (in the case of Lionel) or variable and base posts (in the case of Flyer) with a screwdriver or a piece of wire for a maximum of five seconds. I know this has nothing to do with Mike's original problem but is more of a reflection on Trainman's reply. What type is your old transformer? The article you suggest would be a daunting task, as you'd have to gather virtually every known locomotive and transformer! Used a 1033 for accessories and lights. Sell Your Trains Using a Live Auction House. Make your Christmas complete with a Lionel HO Train under your. As cheap as the 1033 is, if youre going to buy a transformer, you might as well pay a few dollars more to get a 1033. These bus wires are often more important than the size of the power supply itself in getting good results. On the flip side, the new transformers do not seem to work as well with the prewar whistle tenders.Has anyone else noticed this anomaly? This thing has more power then I will ever need. --Build a Better Toy Train Layout, by John Grams and Dick Christianson. Different wiring projects call for different standards. Also, you wont be able to take advantage of independent control of multiple engines on the same track without a digital controller. the amount of track is not what is important here. Professionals Need: Kindle Direct Publishing Indie Digital & Print Publishing Made Easy Amazon Photos Unlimited Photo Storage Free With Prime: Prime Video Direct The larger transformers could operate up to four trains independently.
Amazon.com: Lionel O Gauge Transformer THE BASICS "O", "S", "HO". The Lionel motor is a collection of four electromagnetic plates with a rotating sweeper arm called a brush. The multi-conductor wire is also available. Because the runs are short and power demands so low, this fine wire poses no safety threat. A Veteran, whether active duty, retired, national guard, or reserve, is someone who, at one point in his or her life, wrote a blank check made payable to "The United States of America" for an amount of "up to and including my life.". Service/Tested $55.00 1 bid $14.06 shipping 1d 6h LIONEL TYPE (KW) TRAINMASTER TRANSFORMER FOR PARTS OR RESTORATION $17.05 4 bids $19.95 shipping 9h 23m The first Lionel electric trains were powered by wet-cell batteries, which were, of course, dangerous. I have since wired the new transformer to my layout along with the old ZW. When you block a person, they can no longer invite you to a private message or post to your profile wall. And that means theyre affordable. If youre going to run more than one train, you can pair up two smaller transformers, or you can look at the two-handled transformers. If you have a very long run, you may want to consider Number 12 wire. Most recommend the TPCs over the powermasters The CW 80 will work to begin with. If you need a device that converts from different voltages so it can power another device, then a transformer will fulfill that role perfectly. Here are some simple definitions for these electrical terms: Most power supplies will be labeled as to the scales they are meant to handle. Then the K's will do siding and switching yard duty. It can run four tracks at one time, so you layout can grow. The Lionel ZW has four sets of posts and six controls. Also, you must have a built-in circuit breaker to prevent a short circuit from causing permanent damage to the power supply or the trains.
Power Conversion for Lionel Trains and O-Gauge - KCC Scientific The insulation on the outside of the wire also varies greatly. This signifies compatibility with 50 Hertz power. Starter set locomotives can pull up to 12 cars easily, and most can handle up to 20, so building a longer train will not harm your engine. Extending the Reach of Your Power The smallest wire you can work with will be more than sufficient. (Electrical Contractor with dear old Dad for 30 years) Regards Steve. They are fun to have. Lionel uses red and black (red always for the center rail, black for the two outer rails) as a standard in its instructions and most 3-Rail O Gauge layouts are probably wired this way. If you fried a wire going to the track it may not be a transformer problem. For more realistic operation, you need some kind of speed control (throttle) between the 10340 Automatic Reversing Unit and your transformer. In this case Id go with a postwar TW 175 watt transformer.
How Many Lights Can I Connect To My Transformer? - LightUp
All Lionel transformer comparisons should start here. I suggest that you proactively lay an 10-2 AWG NM cable (or at least 12-2) along the track and tap into it as needed to keep the voltage up. This type of transformer is cheap, its reliable, and its easy to find. There is the 12030 Figure-8 set, which along with the track included in your set makes your layout into this: Figure-8s are great because they create a crossing, giving the appearance of a railroad junction, they break up the oval, and the parts to create them are relatively cheap. Wow.thanks for all the advice so far, guys!! Again, if you have a very long run between switches, going a little larger is less likely to cause problems with voltage loss. But were talking the trains that are in the absolute best condition and might not have ever run on the track. They are fun to have. A rule of thumb from the elders, (I had to go to the mountain top for this one), Add 2 more watts for Spankybird's fun-filled layout! To amplify CTvalley's very valid instructions: A forum community dedicated to model train owners and enthusiasts. A locomotive on a mile-long loop will draw as many amps as it does on a 4x8 platform. Classic Toy Trains magazine offers information about toy trains operating and collecting, toy train product news and reviews, toy train layout tips, toy train layout designs and track plans, and more. There is no reason why your Lionel ZWs and Flyer big ones cant be used to run AC-powered trains of any vintage new or old. Tales From Harmon Shops, WTB: LIONEL AUTRORACKS SPECIFICALLY SOUTHERN,GRAND TRUNK,BNSF,FERROMEX. And if the power supply does fail, it is best not to repair it on your own.
Lionel Trains|MTH Train|Lionel Train Sets| HO model Trains| G Scale|Dept 56 I have a basement that offers an 18" concrete ledge that goes around the entire perimeter of the house that lends itself perfectly to a neat layout. Because of this, like with lighting and accessories, your power supply and wiring for switch machines do not need to be as robust. Serving these devices with their own dedicated supply will not only allow you to supply them with a proper constant voltage, but it will also free your main power supply to handle the load of the train itself. to run conventional you will need Legacy plus a Powermaster and Powermaster Bridge or Legacy and a TPC 300/400. It does run on conventional power but not great and no whistle or bell. The load voltage and load amps must be known to calculate KVA rating. The transformer, when operated at the lower frequency, may . Click here to learn about the Unlimited Membership.
Expanding Your Lionel Starter Set - Trainz Should it be a Lionel or should it be an MTH with command control? Controlled Magnetics has the manufacturing experience, knowledge, and facilities to repair a wide variety of electrical power transformers. Dang, this math makes my head hurt.
DCS Power Supplies | MTH ELECTRIC TRAINS What is the best transformer to use? - O Gauge Railroading On Line Forum Connecticut Valley Railroad -- A Branch of the New York, New Haven, And Hartford. To determine the maximum transformer current, divide the transformer VA by transformer secondary voltage. My question is this in order that this doesn't happen again what type of transformer would you recommend? It has FasTrack connectors on one end and O Gauge track pins on the other. Over the years I have collected boxed(mostly liquor boxes) sets from attics.So I have a variety of transformers on hand. While better starter sets usually include a more robust transformer, as a general rule the power pack supplied with your starter set is just thata start. For a classic setup of a single freight train running on a 48 (or smaller) sheet of plywood, a 90-watt Lionel 1033 or 1044 is an excellent choice. TRANSFORMERS ransformers were issued by Lionel thoughout the Post War period. (Use buss/feeder lines to distribute power.) For a classic setup of a single freight train running on a 48 (or smaller) sheet of plywood, a 90-watt Lionel 1033 or 1044 is an excellent choice. Price Received. Some great beginner accessories are the #12052 Fastrack Highway Signal set, which is a set of highway signals that blink as the train goes by. And of course, Lionel also makes lots of figures to populate your town. When you get DCS, keep the blocks and run the 2 sets off 2 Fixed channels out. Our transformer sizing calculator allows you to obtain the minimum single or three-phase transformer size required based on the load you need to power. HO gauge is very popular because of its size. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Are you looking for a product or serviceif so, then read this BEFORE you post! You can use bus and feeder wires to more evenly distribute the power over your track. Right now I am running 8 motors on one KW [the new one I found] and got the old one for reserve. They have everything you need for a basic setup, and the larger ones are capable of running the smaller layouts you see in the train magazines, so they have some room for growth. For many first-time train buyers, once the initial excitement of setting up the train and watching it run has passed, the desire to make it do more usually begins. God bless TCA 05-58541 Benefactor Member of theNRA, Member of the American Legion, Retired Boss Hog of Roseyville , KC&D Qualified. All Lionel transformer comparisons should start here. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. I didnt mention the 1034 above because its easier to find a 1033. Most power supplies will perform very well for years if used within their limits. American Flyer Trains were made in several gauges. Ran 6 motors [MPC's]. You may never use all the amps, but it's usually cheaper to grow into a power supply than to continually upgrade. $2799.
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