They are fun to have. 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. 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. The best of the best Lionel trains are very valuable. Calculating transformer size for layout size - Classic Toy - Trains Model Train Track & Transformer at Lionel Trains Sell Your Trains Through an Online Auction Service. The new Lionel ZW-L is getting a lot of good reviews and is a very powerful transformer for most layouts. Will get a Z4000 one day [this summer probably, unless I find a good deal on an older ZW] just to say I have one. At fifteen volts which is about as much as I can put to it without jumping the track, it pulls an average of 2.5 amps, or 37.5 watts--less than one tenth of the transformer capacity of 400. Our community is FREE to join. I run an MTH 4-6-2 PS-1 pulling five Madisons on about fifty feet of track and the transformer I am using (Z-4000) has a digital amp readout. Although I am an electrical engineer, I just add stuff until the transformer gets too warm and then I branch off and add another. Right now I am running 8 motors on one KW [the new one I found] and got the old one for reserve. With multiple switches, lights, power supplies and more all concentrated in a small space, color coding and neatness pay off. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. Here are some simple definitions for these electrical terms: Most power supplies will be labeled as to the scales they are meant to handle. 7 Best Transformer For Model Railway - LEDS.CC Lionel Model Railroad and Train Transformers for sale | eBay If you want to connect ten landscape lights to a magnetic transformer, and the lights use 30 watts each, you would need a 375 watt transformer. Ryan Kunkle is a nationally recognized professional model train expert and writer with over 25 years of experience. 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. 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. Both are lighted. I can remember a time when a Lionel ZW would set you back $275. Here are a couple examples: As you can see, with a bit of experimentation and imagination, numerous different track layouts can be created. I have had the same problem. If mixing both non-command as well as command engines, both by the way will run without any thing other than the appropriate transformer, it really depends on the budget. Past,presentand future. We feature Lionel, American Flyer, MTH, Atlas O, Williams Trains, K-Line, Weaver Models, and more. I'll take this information and run with it to help get me started. These systems still require a power supply but it only needs to supply a constant voltage to the rails. If you make a complete loop of 100 feet with good track joints, you'll have something like .1 ohm from the transformer to the farthest point, using the rule of thumb that most track is something like 16 AWG wire (.004 ohms per foot) and that there are two 50 foot tracks feeding the farthest point from two directions. You must be signed in to continue. The typ miniature incandecents we use average about 100 ma of current each. Get updates and special offers via email from Trains.com brands! Interested in southest Pennsylvania railroads; Controlled Magnetics has the manufacturing experience, knowledge, and facilities to repair a wide variety of electrical power transformers. One rail is positive, the other negative. 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. A solid and stranded wire of the same gauge will be the same total diameter. . Lionel Model Railroad and Train Transformers Lionel Model Railroad and Train Transformers Best Selling Lionel 1908080 O Gauge CW80 Transformers - Black (4) $147.85 New $110.00 Used Lionel Legacy Powermaster Lnl637146 (13) $134.99 New $90.00 Used Lionel 634120 TMCC Direct Lock-On Transformer - Silver (21) $58.99 New $49.99 Used A model railroad train set designed for use in the United States will have a 115V AC 60Hz power requirement. These small power supplies are designed to supply a few amps of power. First, a few general notes about choosing wire. Best bang for the buck for command are the Lionel 180W Powerhouse bricks IMO. It was a symbiotic relationship, the engineer designed it and the tech built it, then they both troubleshot it. Willoughby, Ohio - the home of the CP & E RR. Most feeders will be only a few inches long so the smaller diameter wire will not be a problem. If youre buying a transformer, youll be able to easily find one that a professional refurbished and upgraded with the links I provide below. You should take care, however, to replace worn cords and wires. It is much easier to be ready ahead of time then to have to do some changes afterwards. Hello All: Another simple way of doing it, Only load the transformer to 75% of it's capacity, or take your total load & multiply by 125% for proper transformer sizing. This has the added advantage that Lionel TMCC (command control) will operate correctly. All members here are welcome to drop in and visit. 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. * NOTE: We do not recommend loading a transformer above 80% of its KVA rating. Fortunately, in the early 21st century it is easier to expand your starter set than ever before. Power the odd blocks with the other transformer. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. If you were to get a ZW 275 you need external short protection. It was one of Lionel's more venerable postwar products, lasting on the market for 18 years from 1948 to 1966. 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. Ive talked more about the KW here. What is the best transformer to use? - O Gauge Railroading On Line Forum 24v, 120v, 208v, 240v, 480v, and 600v). Although all Lionel cars operate on O Gauge track, the bodies of the cars are made in two slightly different sizes. In most cases, stranded wire is preferred because the multiple threads provide more conductivity and flexibility. 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. (using 4 of the 180 watt Lionel bricks) That's 10 amps per channel on all 4 channels. 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. Unlimited Members, sign in to enjoy sitewide access. 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. Keeping in mind that I will likely continue to add to the layout as my addiction develops! 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. to run conventional you will need Legacy plus a Powermaster and Powermaster Bridge or Legacy and a TPC 300/400. June 5, 2022; cleveland open chess 2021; mexican martial arts xilam Transformer Calculator KVA Calculator Full Load Amps Calculator 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. Lionel Postwar 1033 Transformer Watch on Everyone wanted the two-handled, football-shaped, 275-watt powerhouse that was the ZW. The 1044 is just a 1033 in a different case. It is 5" long. Amperes = VA/Secondary Volts or 40VA/28V = 1.43 amperes. It is not uncommon to see 50-year-old transformers still going strong on a model railroad. Used a 1033 for accessories and lights. Lots of good tips for building a layout from two of the most experienced people in the hobby. I have since wired the new transformer to my layout along with the old ZW. All of the transformers that have more than 90 Watts are in great demand today as more collectors are operating retro-layouts. 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. Length of track or type of track doesn't (or shouldn't) matter. Faq No: 1029 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. Lionel Trains: Value, History and What Collectors Should Know If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. The 1044 is just a 1033 in a different case. 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. Use the CW-80 Transformer only for its intended purpose. --The O Gauge Railroading Primer, by Christopher Ritchie. 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. Members enjoy 15% off any purchase in our store. By continuing to use this site, you indicate you accept these terms. As you can see, a lot of great helpers here. This means that you will have about.5 volt drop if your train draws 5 amperes. Lionel Vintage Model Railroad & Train Transformers - eBay QUOTE: by Skyray "Typical engineer--you need a technician. I have a post war ZW and a KW and a Z, all three are good transformers, just meant for differant needs. 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. Get DIY project ideas and easy-to-follow crafts to help you spruce up your space. If you like fixing things, fixing an old transformer is rewarding. Digital command control systems (DCC) uses digital information to control the electrical power to the train. How to Properly Size a Transformer | Behler-Young That means there are lots of them. Plug one of your transformers into each Fixed in. Great for learning all you will ever want to know about Lionels track system. All power supplies will be rated for volts, amps, and watts. Lionel developed and perfected its model designs and layouts during the Pre-War Era (1901-1942). Never had a problem. Dave: That certainly qualifies, don't forget the anti-gun lobbyist with the picket sign's. Twin coil machines have a higher current draw when in motion but are also much faster-acting than the motorized versions. From 25 Watts to 275 Watts, a Lionel transformer could be found for every power requirment from simple circles of track to extensive railroads. Steve's rule of thumb for derating is very close to and in the same spirit as the NEC rule that an appliance may not draw more than 80 percent of the current rating of the outlet. They run on three rail track. As far as new transformers go, someone else may be able to help more than I can. --Heck, watching one train run is great, Ill bet TWO would be even more fun! 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. Within that range, it is generally recommended to go for the most robust power supply possible. 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. The same is true for other electronic projects around your layout and inside buildings, train cars, and even locomotives. That's about enough to run a single locomotive and perhaps power a few lighted accessories or passenger cars. Number 24 to Number20 wire will all work with most layouts. Of all the questions fielded by the staff of Classic Toy Trains, inquiries regarding layout wiring top the list.While you might expect numerous questions regarding complex techniques or new technologies, CTT. Lionel makes two expansion sets for this purpose. It does not work with O27. Handbook of layout wiring | Classic Toy Trains Magazine Amazon.com: Lionel O Gauge Transformer A. If they do, follow their recommendations. Tales From Harmon Shops, WTB: LIONEL AUTRORACKS SPECIFICALLY SOUTHERN,GRAND TRUNK,BNSF,FERROMEX. 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 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). I have one R transformer from which I run everything - but only 1 train at a time and a few accessories for a layout in a space about 24 by 10 ft. Then the K's will do siding and switching yard duty. RemembertheVeterans. Expanding Your Lionel Starter Set - Trainz Check out my O scale layout progress at MTF, does track consume power? Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership. The 110-wattLionel RW is a cheap option, and the 125-watt LW, while a bit more expensive, gives a bit more power. If your layout is bigger than 48, you may actually find trains run a bit better with a KW than with a smaller transformer. EXPLORE FasTrack 10" Straight Track 4-Pack 6-12032 $ 21.99 FasTrack Grade Crossing with Flashers 6-12052 $ 99.99 FasTrack O36 Curved Track 4-Pack 6-12033 $ 21.99 Legacy AMC-2 Motor Controller But it is important to take a close look at the cars to make sure that they are a good match for your set. However, there are times when the solid wire has advantages, particularly when soldering in small locations. Big Ed Railroad Tycoon Some people even find it fun. The customer will still need a step down transformer to get the 220V to 110V. Just not quite as much. What gauge wire is used for Lionel trains? - Sage-Advices 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. 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. Add a PW dual motor F3 (4 amps) with 5 lighted cars (another 10 bulbs - 1 amp) and you are cooking (9 amps). Lionel Trains|MTH Train|Lionel Train Sets| HO model Trains| G Scale|Dept 56 You may never use all the amps, but it's usually cheaper to grow into a power supply than to continually upgrade. 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? 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]. Replies and comments they make will be collapsed/hidden by default. I didnt mention the 1034 above because its easier to find a 1033. Yes, but the train will probably run too fast, depending on the output voltage of the transformer. 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. If this happens, you will need another transformer to share the load. It states: 1.25 amps for each motor, 0.2 amps for each bulb. For safety reasons, the batteries were soon replaced by a 110 volt transformer. To amplify CTvalley's very valid instructions: A forum community dedicated to model train owners and enthusiasts. To my knowledge, you should have no compatibility issues with a pure sine wave track feed with any major brand locomotive. 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. As your needs grow, you can employ a larger transformer of fixed voltage. Ryan developsmodeltrainlayouts for public andprivate display. This tool only evaluates common voltages for North America (ie. Is there anyway of saying how much track it will power? Ive written more about the Lionel ZW here. properly wired transformer can handle any amount of track. I'm sure I'll need more help along the way, so I'll be checking back in with more silly questions! Sell Your Trains Using a Live Auction House. There are many advantages in repairing or reconditioning your transformers. This would be more than enough for any single train and a few accessories. JavaScript is disabled. Sell Your Trains Yourself On eBay. And of course, individual Fastrack sections are also available. I'm guessing the MTH Z1000 is around $100 and the other suggestions are much more expensive. To participate you must either login or register for an account. Like command control, these trains still require a constant voltage to the rails. Transformer for Lionel that works in AUSTRALIA