what size lionel transformer do i need

As Paul said, the power needed doesn't have anything to do with the distance; but the voltage needed does. This is why my wife loves me so. If you have time, check out the "Coffee Pot". It was a symbiotic relationship, the engineer designed it and the tech built it, then they both troubleshot it. Just not quite as much. The iconic and legendary 270-wattLionel ZW was the biggest and best transformer Lionel made in the postwar era. The new Lionel ZW-L is getting a lot of good reviews and is a very powerful transformer for most layouts. All members here are welcome to drop in and visit. So far, I haven't seen any way to do this except to take amp measurements or just wing it and see how hot your transformer gets. Below weve listed these transformers in numerical order in the Numerical Index. A: According to Lionel's head of customer service, on the underside of their CW80 transformers, starting in late 2009, the vendor applied a sticker that states "QC50" on it. They are fun to have. Retrofitting a subway line into existing benchwork - and are subway sets still being made? In most cases, stranded wire is preferred because the multiple threads provide more conductivity and flexibility. For instance, a 100 kilovolt-ampere transformer with 8.32 kilovolts (or less) on the high side has a typical value of 2.6% impedance. 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? Mike to the forum. Amazon.com: Lionel Transformer 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. 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. Well Mike what I am about to suggest may be a little pricy or at least it was for me but I have managed to buy a new Lionel ZW. While it is tempting to go with the biggest wire possible to guarantee excess capacity, there are drawbacks to putting in more than you need. I've had light 'arguments' with fellow hobbyists claiming most of their fellows are predominantly technically - oriented vs. what I would consider is a more liberal artsy approach - any way it's a great balance. Needless to say the "Spring into Spring" train show very nearly became unsprung! Sign up for new product releases, promotions, and more. The least expensive power supply you should consider is the Lionel CW80 Transformer; you can buy a new one for about $150 or a used on one eBay for about $60. Never Enough Room, Time or Money for all the Trains! 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. Subscribers, sign in to access exclusive content. It would be advantageous if OGR magazine would put an article together comparing the major manufacturers transformers output waveform compatibility/ incompatibilitywith the various manufacturer's locomotives - Atlas O, Weaver, 3rd Rail, MTH , Lionel etc and conventional , DCS , TMCC, Legacy command control. Here are some simple definitions for these electrical terms: Most power supplies will be labeled as to the scales they are meant to handle. Why Do Lionel Trains Have 3 Rails? | Worldwide Rails The circuit breaker should trip with a click and the transformer should go dead. 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. The larger transformers could operate up to four trains independently. The power supply that comes with these sets is usually a very small wall pack plug-in that cannot be easily expanded. That it not to say that there are not engineering formulae to calculate the current draw and thus the wattage, but far and away the easiest method is to measure it. to run conventional you will need Legacy plus a Powermaster and Powermaster Bridge or Legacy and a TPC 300/400. The next evolution in model train control is radio- or bluetooth-controlled trains. Transformer Size Calculator - Electram Understanding Electrical Supplies and Controls. If the system's train transformer is run in Europe with a step-down transformer alone (converting only voltage from 230V to 115V AC at a 50 Hz), it may not operate as intended. What is the best transformer to use? - O Gauge Railroading On Line Forum IF the Engineer is the guy that drives the locomotive then theTechnician must be the fireman is this correct? The best of the best Lionel trains are very valuable. Does Lionel still make standard gauge trains? The accessory activation track (#12029) is used to activate Lionel trackside accessories. Price Received. Many manufacturers assemble cases with special screws to prevent access to the inside and accidental shock. Lionel makes two expansion sets for this purpose. Lionel is also introducing a new 180 watt transformer to accompany the 80 watt CW 80. Both are lighted. The Atlas and Bachmann 80 watt transformers, they are one and the same, can be had for around $75.00. Of course, if you happen to have enough Number12 wire left over from a home renovation project to install all the buses on your small layout, it won't do any harm. Take the hint. Improve ready-to-run freight cars with a little paint. Sell Your Trains Yourself On eBay. These systems still require a power supply but it only needs to supply a constant voltage to the rails. Note: if you proceed, you will no longer be following, $12.00 per 12 Months (plus tax if applicable). Viola, DCS on alternate power blocks, Max signal, Happiness. Extending the Reach of Your Power Dang, this math makes my head hurt. As the kit grows and you start putting in turnouts (or the point switching systems) to move your train from one track to another track, you will not only need more than 1 transformer, you will. 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. What about removing flanges from diesel wheels? If you like, tell us more about yourself. Atlas and Bachmann have the same transformers with 80 watt outputs as well that get good reviews and would be appropriate for a smaller layout. Fortunately, there is an easy way to tell these cars apart, and the key is the numbers Lionel assigns to them. There was a video by Mike Reagan from Lionel about better smoke output from a chopped wave transformer, but the pure sine wave didn't cause any operational issues. Understanding the difference is important in getting the right power supply for your needs. You can also minimize voltage drop at the rail joints by soldering the rails together. When you block a person, they can no longer invite you to a private message or post to your profile wall. If you're looking to only have one loop with multiple sidings then you'll only need 1 source of power for the whole layout. The typ miniature incandecents we use average about 100 ma of current each. At auction, Lionel train sets, pieces, and accessories can sell for a few hundred dollars or for a few thousand dollars, depending on the rarity and condition of the piece. The 110-wattLionel RW is a cheap option, and the 125-watt LW, while a bit more expensive, gives a bit more power. Price Received. Of course, the answer to that question depends on many things. This works for command control layouts too, since those parked trains are still drawing some current. He directs production at Lionel, the premier model train manufacturer, and he istheformer president of theConrail HistoricalSociety. I didnt mention the 1034 above because its easier to find a 1033. Twin coil machines have a higher current draw when in motion but are also much faster-acting than the motorized versions. The thing that eats current is a lot of light bulbs on the layout. 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. We're sorry. Price Received. View More! It was one of Lionel's more venerable postwar products, lasting on the market for 18 years from 1948 to 1966. This wire is very fine and can be found in many color combinations. If youre buying a transformer, youll be able to easily find one that a professional refurbished and upgraded with the links I provide below. Just connect the jumper wires to the same connections on the back of your transformer as your original connections, and make sure that the wires are not crossed. So, if you want to connect eight landscape lights to an electronic transformer, and the lights use 20 watts each, you would need a 160 watt transformer. In most cases, because we are dealing with relatively low voltage and amperage and in a normally stable temperature and humidity climates, our wiring does not require any extra insulation. That transformer will only prolly handle 1 engine and depending on how long it is will depend on how many extra feeders you will need around the layout. Ive talked more about the KW here. Here are a few: --The Lionel Fastrack Book, by Robert Schleicher. Effort. The transformer, when operated at the lower frequency, may . This has the added advantage that Lionel TMCC (command control) will operate correctly. Obviously, for a lot of people, the $700 Lionel ZW-L transformer is overkill. There are many advantages in repairing or reconditioning your transformers. The house's current is reduced to the required low voltage by Trainmaster Transformers. Get DIY project ideas and easy-to-follow crafts to help you spruce up your space. If you plan to just run MTH go with their DCS system if you plan to have a number of different engines or the MTH DCS Remote Commander which is limited to running only one engine at a time. Fortunately, in the early 21st century it is easier to expand your starter set than ever before. To determine the maximum transformer current, divide the transformer VA by transformer secondary voltage. Over the years I have collected boxed (mostly liquor boxes) sets from attics.So I have a variety of transformers on hand. I'll take this information and run with it to help get me started. That's about enough to run a single locomotive and perhaps power a few lighted accessories or passenger cars. Make sure you are getting the right type of power supply for your layout. Mark. What do I need to do that with? And if the power supply does fail, it is best not to repair it on your own. Its a bargain at that price. The insulation on the outside of the wire also varies greatly. This is because the demands for power are becoming more than your transformer can handle. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. http://www.lccuk.org.uk/lccuk Regards Nick Save Reply Quote N Nick12DMC Registered Different wiring projects call for different standards. Use this index to see additional details about the individual transformers issued by Lionel during the post-war period. Not wanting to give up, I experimented with an 80 watt modern Lionel transformer and got great results. OTTS Founder Whatever colors and pattern you choose, just make sure to keep a good notebook handy to reference later. 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. The old transformer is not really the problem, the problem is the supply wire, particularly under heavyload (or derailment without the benefit of a quicker breaker). * NOTE: We do not recommend loading a transformer above 80% of its KVA rating. Stop it with your hand to full stall, and it goes up to four amps--sixty watts--trying to pull. Any of the below transformers from M.T.H. What size Lionel transformer do I need? I talk more in depth about the 1033 here. The Lionel Track & Power catalog is BACK with the latest information for more ways to make your layout even bigger, better and more powerful! Most power supplies will perform very well for years if used within their limits. Replies and comments they make will be collapsed/hidden by default. Alternating current (AC) is the preferred power for most O Gauge three-rail trains as well as some two-rail systems in smaller scales. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Model train transformer- 6 steps to understanding how they work Although it will not have any impact on the performance of the wire within, choosing multiple colors of wire, and standardizing on a specific color for each function, will go a long way in making your wiring easier to install and easier to detect flaws later on. You have pretty much pointed up the major problem, everything is different. An Essential Guide for Toy Train Enthusiasts! As the train goes by, the door to the shed opens and a figure pops out, and once the train has passed the figure re-enters the building and the door shuts. As you progress with your layout there are a lot of people here who will help you with any questions you have. How to open tamper resistant outlets, Xxcopy vs Xcopy: Command line copy utilities, Where to connect the red wire to a light switch, Brains 25 cents: The story behind the meme. For more realistic operation, you need some kind of speed control (throttle) between the 10340 Automatic Reversing Unit and your transformer. Three conductor wire is common for household use. He directs production at Lionel, the premier model train manufacturer, and he istheformer president of theConrail HistoricalSociety. You could have a poor connection that caused the wire to heat up. Most two-rail track systems use direct current (DC). This means that they are not exact 1:48 replicas of the real thing but instead are selectively compressed to negotiate the tight turns of regular Lionel track. Many will still run on the track in your starter set, but because they are scale sized, the bodies of these cars may be slightly wider and longer than those in your set. Solid wire is preferable as it is much easier to solder to the rails. For a passenger train with lighted cars, getting a little more power isnt a bad idea. 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. All Lionel transformer comparisons should include the common 1033, RW, LW, KW and ZW transformers. 7 Best Transformer For Model Railway - LEDS.CC Get the newest photos, videos, stories, and more from Trains.com brands. Electric Trains make great power supplies, depending on usage, on a DCS controlled layout. You should always, always test your transformer for safetybefore you set it up, andunplug it when youre not using it. Check out my O scale layout progress at MTF, does track consume power? In either case, however, voltage and amperage draw is low and peak for only brief periods. We use a ZW 275 and a KW on this, so 405 watts. Regardless of your scale, all model railroad switch machines fall into one of two categories, a slow-motion electric motor or a "twin coil" relay. Like command control, these trains still require a constant voltage to the rails. I recently read an article/product review in the OGR magazine for the new Lioneltransformerand wassurprisedto learn that not all voltage outputwave-formsare created equal (pure sine wave versus some type of clipped sine wave). Number 26 to 20 wire (depending on the length of your bus) will be sufficient for most applications. If you need a device that converts from different voltages so it can power another device, then a transformer will fulfill that role perfectly. Lionel Trains|MTH Train|Lionel Train Sets| HO model Trains| G Scale|Dept 56 $2799. When you get DCS, keep the blocks and run the 2 sets off 2 Fixed channels out. I covered the more common ones, but if you have another vintage Lionel transformer of more than 75 watts and its in good condition, theres no reason not to use it. Our community is FREE to join. If you add a lot of track and find that your train slows down as it gets farther from your transformer, you will need to run jumper wires to the opposite side of your track layout. My question is.how big of a transformer will I need to power this thing? They run on O Gauge track, but they are not exact O Scale cars. It is important to remember that the real test of the power supply is the load you'll place on it. Power the odd blocks with the other transformer. Actually the choice of transformer is secondary to the choice of control systems since you can operate O gauge trains with most any good modern transformer. I got a lot of lightweight transformers that came with starter sets over the years. 10 Easy Ways to Improve a Christmas Train Display, Wiring a Model Railroad for Block Operation, How to Build and Wire Reverse Loops for Model Trains, How to Choose the Right Transformer for Your Model Trains, Compatibility of Different Model Train Brands, HO Scale Track Plans for Model Train Layouts, buildings, streets, and other scenic accessories. The car on the left is scale, and the one on the right is the classic, underscale size. As your needs grow, you can employ a larger transformer of fixed voltage. This is different from the stranded wire in that the different individual wires, each with their color-coded insulation, is placed inside a secondary insulation wrap. The larger transformers could operate up to four trains independently. If you are wiring with a common rail for your blocks, then keeping the common rail the same color all the time while changing the color for the other rail in each block is also an option. how much track can a transformer handle? | Model Train Forum Although not necessarily a mandated standard, white, black and or red are used for track power on most layouts - if for no other reason than these colors are easiest to find. Here are a couple examples: As you can see, with a bit of experimentation and imagination, numerous different track layouts can be created. David, looking at your layout I notice there is a two rail and a three rail ? Tech Support for the OGR Forum (NOT FOR TRAINS), PRR fellas!lets build an S2!! Then the K's will do siding and switching yard duty. A solid and stranded wire of the same gauge will be the same total diameter. The first is the traditional or classic size, which are the cars that match starter sets. Add a PW dual motor F3 (4 amps) with 5 lighted cars (another 10 bulbs - 1 amp) and you are cooking (9 amps). I know my train club had an issue with conventional locomotives not running properly on a layout with DCS and TMCC and apparently solved it by replacing a Lionel transformer with an MRC transformer that puts out a pure sine wave. Reverse the above if planning to run mostly Lionel and go with the Lionel command system, either the full Legacy system or the upcoming CAB-1L and just add a Track Power Controller and a cable to run most MTH engines in conventional with the Lionel systems. Starter sets almost always include a power supply along with the track and train. Ryan Kunkle is a nationally recognized professional model train expert and writer with over 25 years of experience. Choosing the Right Transformer for Your Model Trains - The Spruce Crafts However, if you begin to add lighted cars, or more than a couple accessories, you may find that your train will not run as fast, or that it will shut off entirely. Everything you need to get going is included, its reliable, and setup is usually very easy. The polarities can be reversed to change the direction of the train. --I wish I had some more cars to put behind the engine. And that means theyre affordable. Get the Classic Toy Trains newsletter delivered to your inbox twice a month, WELCOME TO THE FORUM Mike!! Mint-in-box examples of vintage Lionel trains are still valuable and will continue to appreciate in value over time, because there are so few of them. 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. A bigger transformer is better and always looks nicer too! Safety first. The KW used to be really expensive, but since Lionel started making big transformers again, you can get a KW for what a 1033 used to cost, which makes it a very nice bargain today on a rugged and powerful transformer with an impressive presence. All power supplies will be rated for volts, amps, and watts. --I need a station for the train to stop at. A small set that came with track, transformer, etc. And of course, Lionel also makes lots of figures to populate your town. Forgot about light bulbs since I don't got some yet. Wow.thanks for all the advice so far, guys!! Unlimited Members, sign in to enjoy sitewide access. A Passenger consist can easily use more power than the engine. ransformers were issued by Lionel thoughout the Post War period. Here are some guidelines for the most common wiring jobs you'll find. The CW-80 is a nice little transformer, has accessory output as well,but as you have stated you will outgrow the CW-80 pretty quick. Amperes = VA/Secondary Volts or 40VA/28V = 1.43 amperes. What gauge wire is used for Lionel trains? - Sage-Advices "O" Gauge is what Lionel is today, along with "O27". Problem with Rail King Protocol Sounds reversing unit, My D-190 Back in Action After Move to to NC, Caboose Identification - late era vintage, Continuing Saga Newtown Hardwrare House WIP. For safety reasons, the batteries were soon replaced by a 110 volt transformer. A solid and stranded wire of the same gauge will be the same total diameter. Effort. It is best to use at least two different colors for your track wiring (one for each rail). 40-500 50 Watt AC Transformer - 50 Watt AC transformer suitable for . A while back, approximately 2 weeks ago while running two very lengthy loops of fast track an old transformer nearly fried (50 years old) one of my wires that I was running to my Fastrac. In some cases. Use the CW-80 Transformer only for its intended purpose. Adding lights to buildings, streets, and other scenic accessories usually do not require anywhere near the amperage demand of the trains themselves. Expanding Your Lionel Starter Set - Trainz It is also a good idea to run your accessories off of a separate power supply and wire grid from the trains themselves. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Anyway if it takes me 100 years to finish this thing one thing is for sure I will not have to worry about powering anything and everything. Plug one of your transformers into each Fixed in. Keeping in mind that I will likely continue to add to the layout as my addiction develops! Atlas and Bachmann have the same transformers with 80 watt outputs as well that get good reviews and would be appropriate for a smaller layout. How Many Lights Can I Connect To My Transformer? - LightUp 24v, 120v, 208v, 240v, 480v, and 600v). Its expensive, but the same factors that drove KW prices down are also driving ZW prices down. You can't count on a lack of compatibility issues for one Legacy locomotive being definitive for all Legacy locomotives, for example. editors report that most of the wiring issues they address involve basic principles of electricity - the stuff that Ben Franklin played with when he flew his kite. They're controlled with a simple handheld remote control and run on easy-to-connect plastic track. But after a little while, you will likely want your train to do more, and youll start thinking along these lines: --It sure would be neat if it did more than run in a circle. Just like with your track bus and feeders, running an accessory bus of slightly heavier wire to connect to each light or accessory with a smaller feeder is a good plan. A starter set is the best way to start with the train hobby. Max Watts on one TIU is 720W. I don't want to buy a lot more track, but then find out the transformer is too weak, if that make sense. Make sure you are getting the right type of power supply for your layout. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Likewise, if you only want to run one train at a time, you can keep other trains on the track by wiring with blocks, and turning off trains that are not in use. Lionel developed and perfected its model designs and layouts during the Pre-War Era (1901-1942). By creating alternate routes, more complex loops, and storage tracks, your trains will suddenly be even more interesting to watch and they will begin providing you the feeling that they are going somewhere and that you are running a small railroad. This tool will allow you calculate the KVA that you need. Just not quite as much. If you found this post informative or helpful, please share it! It is not uncommon to see 50-year-old transformers still going strong on a model railroad. Lionel made a lot of other transformers over the years. If you have a very long run, you may want to consider Number 12 wire. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Can't plug into outlet? M3103. The Lionel ZW has four sets of posts and six controls. The 1044 is just a 1033 in a different case. The smallest wire you can work with will be more than sufficient. Within that range, it is generally recommended to go for the most robust power supply possible. Note that when working with specific products, manufacturers will often recommend a wire size and type. (NEW/LIKE NEW), running TMCC And DCS engines with DCS handheld, terrible crash in Greece, multiple fatalities, Its.Public Delivery Track ..NEWSpecial run corner, Improving Appearance of 0-gauge Tubular Track. It will require a minimum of 108' of track just to do a basic rectangle before I add any switches, etc. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. Just get a Lionel #12053 Accessory wire set and enough extra wire to connect from the wire set back to your transformer [speaker wire works well]. Older transformers I had this issue with are RW, 1033, KW, ZW.newer transformers were all made by MTH. Lionel Trains Pocket Price Guide 1901-2022. If you fried a wire going to the track it may not be a transformer problem. White and black are common selections. Yes, but the train will probably run too fast, depending on the output voltage of the transformer. The choice of a control system is somewhat, but not necessarily, dependent on which manufacturers engines you prefer or have the most of. 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. It has FasTrack connectors on one end and O Gauge track pins on the other. This means that you will have about.5 volt drop if your train draws 5 amperes. Lionel Vintage Model Railroad & Train Transformers - eBay Dave, you're so eloquent and inspiring - my undergraduate degree was in American Studies, now I'm in charge of among other things all our college's technology - also self-taught.. Hello All: Re: Dave Farquhar, Dave you left out sense of humor Regards Steve. There are a few standards when it comes to the color-coding. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. A model railroad train set designed for use in the United States will have a 115V AC 60Hz power requirement. But a 12-gauge solid wire is one strand, while a 12-gauge stranded wire may be made up of more than a dozen much smaller individual strands spun together. 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. Ive talked more about the Lionel RW and the LW as well. CW80 Transformer. All about the Lionel ZW - The Silicon Underground This will solve the slowdown problem. Model Train Scales & Gauges: The Lionel Trains Guide 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.

what size lionel transformer do i need 2023