what size lionel transformer do i need

Just not quite as much. That was before all the technician assemby work was outsourced overseas and they left the poor engineers to fend for themselves. I have since wired the new transformer to my layout along with the old ZW. 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. The first Lionel electric trains were powered by wet-cell batteries, which were, of course, dangerous. The article you suggest would be a daunting task, as you'd have to gather virtually every known locomotive and transformer! I have purchased diodes to put into the older transformers to see if this resolves the issue with newer tenders. That could also be the reason the other transformers don't work. What about removing flanges from diesel wheels? Lionel is also introducing a new 180 watt transformer to accompany the 80 watt CW 80. Thus an appliance with a 15-ampere plug (the usual kind with parallel blades) must draw no more than 12 amperes. All about the Lionel ZW - The Silicon Underground 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. 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. Are you running command or conventional? This means that you will have about.5 volt drop if your train draws 5 amperes. A. Over the years I have collected boxed (mostly liquor boxes) sets from attics.So I have a variety of transformers on hand. to run conventional you will need Legacy plus a Powermaster and Powermaster Bridge or Legacy and a TPC 300/400. Model Train Track & Transformer at Lionel Trains The 190-wattLionel KWwas the second biggest and second best transformer of the postwar era. In most cases, stranded wire is preferred because the multiple threads provide more conductivity and flexibility. 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. Retrofitting a subway line into existing benchwork - and are subway sets still being made? The thing that eats current is a lot of light bulbs on the layout. As time goes on you can add higher wattage bricks one by one. Tales From Harmon Shops, WTB: LIONEL AUTRORACKS SPECIFICALLY SOUTHERN,GRAND TRUNK,BNSF,FERROMEX. Get DIY project ideas and easy-to-follow crafts to help you spruce up your space. If you want a spur track to store an extra car or two, Lionel makes another expansion set [#12044] that does just that: Note that this set includes one switch which is the track section that makes the track diverge onto two separate routes. That means there are lots of them. LGB throttles 51070, 52120 and 52121 will all work with the 50061 and other LGB transformers. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. 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! And again regardless of scale or manufacturer, switch machines of these two types will have similar needs and performance. Remember, the only silly question is the one that you did not ask. 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. 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. 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. Adding lights to buildings, streets, and other scenic accessories usually do not require anywhere near the amperage demand of the trains themselves. Most two-rail track systems use direct current (DC). 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. Antique Train Sets - FAQs for Lionel Collectors Club of America Then the K's will do siding and switching yard duty. One rail is positive, the other negative. The Lionel ZW has four sets of posts and six controls. With multiple switches, lights, power supplies and more all concentrated in a small space, color coding and neatness pay off. Lionel Trains|MTH Train|Lionel Train Sets| HO model Trains| G Scale|Dept 56 The Lionel 1033 can be used for small or medium-sized layouts. Starter sets almost always include a power supply along with the track and train. Sell Your Trains Through an Online Auction Service. Dave: That certainly qualifies, don't forget the anti-gun lobbyist with the picket sign's. I know this has nothing to do with Mike's original problem but is more of a reflection on Trainman's reply. Get the newest photos, videos, stories, and more from Trains.com brands. Also, I found an old guide printed by lionel on power requirements. 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. God bless TCA 05-58541 Benefactor Member of theNRA, Member of the American Legion, Retired Boss Hog of Roseyville , KC&D Qualified. is always one of the first questions asked when someone starts to build a model railroad. Lionel 1033 90 watt Transformer Postwar from 1950s-60s Whistle, Direction. Both are lighted. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Never Enough Room, Time or Money for all the Trains! Getting Started - 3 RAIL TRAINS Join Today! Because of this, like with lighting and accessories, your power supply and wiring for switch machines do not need to be as robust. HO trains are very durable and are made with high quality parts and pieces to ensure the longevity of the Lionel train brand! It also has an optional bell sound that can be turned on and off. Are you looking for a product or serviceif so, then read this BEFORE you post! As your layout grows so, too, will its power demand. Lionel Rolling Stock Identification Guide. 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. 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. 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. Although all Lionel cars operate on O Gauge track, the bodies of the cars are made in two slightly different sizes. 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. Lionel 1033 90 Watt Multi-control Transformer (102) $9.99 1 bid $16.00 shipping 2d 9h Lionel Type Z 250 Watt Transformer & One 167 Whistle Controllers. A model railroad train set designed for use in the United States will have a 115V AC 60Hz power requirement. 40-200 20 Watt DC Transformer - Small DC transformer suitable for powering a single HO diesel or steam locomotive equipped with Proto-Sound 3.0. Pretty much suffered the same fate, too. They do not include a track or power supply, so you will need to buy both separately. Accessories often interact with the train, such as a crossing gate that lowers as the train passes. 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. Length of track or type of track doesn't (or shouldn't) matter. how much track can a transformer handle? | Model Train Forum Lionel and other train manufacturers have worked hard to make adding to a set easy, affordable, and fun. American Flyer Trains Basic Operating Information The larger transformers could operate up to four trains independently. Apparently there is a difference between old conventional and new conventional power. (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. THE BASICS "O", "S", "HO". With two switches, you can create an alternative route for your trains. It's expensive, but the same factors that drove KW prices down are also driving ZW prices down. Transformers are designed to fail if a short in the secondary or control side occurs. PDF Lionel CW-80 Transformer Owner's Manual - thomconte.com Price Received. The accessory activation track (#12029) is used to activate Lionel trackside accessories. When running a mixed bag train show with new and old trains of mixed types such as Loinel and MTH which is better? 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. Yes, but the train will probably run too fast, depending on the output voltage of the transformer. This is where the Lionel transformer comparisons should begin. Most recommend the TPCs over the powermasters The CW 80 will work to begin with. And both of them give more wattage per handle than a KW or ZW. Here are a couple examples: As you can see, with a bit of experimentation and imagination, numerous different track layouts can be created. The load voltage and load amps must be known to calculate KVA rating. If you like fixing things, fixing an old transformer is rewarding. 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. It does run on conventional power but not great and no whistle or bell. Viola, DCS on alternate power blocks, Max signal, Happiness. 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. 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 The multi-conductor wire is also available. Like command control, these trains still require a constant voltage to the rails. When you block a person, they can no longer invite you to a private message or post to your profile wall. Which Lionel transformer do I need? - The Silicon Underground Because the runs are short and power demands so low, this fine wire poses no safety threat. The Lionel RW also happens to be a great transformer for Marx or American Flyer trains too, when you connect the track leads to the B and U posts instead of the A and U posts youd normally use for most Lionel setups. Now, I am going to make a suggesstion that you use a larger diameter curve for your corners. I can remember a time when a Lionel ZW would set you back $275. Traditionally, Lionel trains run on AC but there are exceptions. My layout I am building is 5 sheets of 4x8 plywood and it will probaly take me 100 years to build it (I hope I have that much time left). Ok our layout is 10 x 20 = 200 sq ft x 2 = 400 watts. --Toy Train Collecting and Operating, by John Grams. Wow.thanks for all the advice so far, guys!! 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. This tool will allow you calculate the KVA that you need. Subscribers, sign in to access exclusive content. 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. American Flyer Trains were made in several gauges. I'm sure I'll need more help along the way, so I'll be checking back in with more silly questions! I have a post war ZW and a KW and a Z, all three are good transformers, just meant for differant needs. In three-rail systems, the outer rails are both grounded, and the center rail is "hot.". A small set that came with track, transformer, etc. If you plan to add a second loop for another train in the near future, the 14198 would be a wise investment. My question is this in order that this doesn't happen again what type of transformer would you recommend? Some people even find it fun. Electric Trains make great power supplies, depending on usage, on a DCS controlled layout. 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. Transformer capacity is rated in KVA (kilo-volt-amperes). This is interesting stuff. Twin coil machines have a higher current draw when in motion but are also much faster-acting than the motorized versions. Here are a few: --The Lionel Fastrack Book, by Robert Schleicher. Effort. A starter set is the best way to start with the train hobby. I'm guessing the MTH Z1000 is around $100 and the other suggestions are much more expensive. Get the Classic Toy Trains newsletter delivered to your inbox twice a month, WELCOME TO THE FORUM Mike!! I've got around 320 ft of track between all of the mainline, sidings, etc and I don't have any problems running my engines anywhere on the layout. The same is true for other electronic projects around your layout and inside buildings, train cars, and even locomotives. There are also numerous static accessories that do not operate but add visual interest to your layout, such as the #24219 girder bridge. Lionel makes two expansion sets for this purpose. If you have time, check out the "Coffee Pot". 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. Ive talked more about the KW here. http://www.lccuk.org.uk/lccuk Regards Nick Save Reply Quote N Nick12DMC Registered M3103. Reading & Northern, Reading Company, Reading Lines, Philadelphia & Reading. And that means theyre affordable. Many manufacturers assemble cases with special screws to prevent access to the inside and accidental shock. Unlimited Members, sign in to enjoy sitewide access. Dang, this math makes my head hurt. Number 22 solid wire works best on most scales. They are reasonably durable and were popular in their day, which means there are still a lot of them floating around so they tend to be inexpensive. Outdoor railroads are, of course, an exception! Smaller feeder wires are used to bridge the small gap from the bus to the track. This would be more than enough for any single train and a few accessories. The preferred choice for wiring control panels is telephone or telecommunications wire. Choosing the Right Transformer for Your Model Trains - The Spruce Crafts 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. Ill try to find a link to it for you. This diagram shows all of the controls and the pinout for the Lionel RW transformer. Now, I diconnected that old dinosaur and connected two separate smaller ones which weren't powerful enough to run my Amtrack MTH trains. Price Received. Of course, the answer to that question depends on many things. Lionel Fastrack Track System O Scale Trains | Lionel Fastrack for Sale This tool only evaluates common voltages for North America (ie. I justhave a very basic 027 set (guessin' mid 80's?). Everything you need to get going is included, its reliable, and setup is usually very easy. --Heck, watching one train run is great, Ill bet TWO would be even more fun! 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. View More! The polarities can be reversed to change the direction of the train. Not really a how-to-build-a-layout book, but it is a good general introduction to the hobby full of interesting stuff. To determine the maximum transformer current, divide the transformer VA by transformer secondary voltage. The smallest wire you can work with will be more than sufficient. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Beginners Ask Trains New trains; old transformers. Can't plug into outlet? 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. 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 transformer included with your starter set should be adequate to handle a modest expansion of your train set discussed above. Lionel Model Railroad and Train Transformers for sale | eBay The transition section (#12040) allows you to connect conventional O Gauge track to FasTrack. They are fun to have. Most feeders will be only a few inches long so the smaller diameter wire will not be a problem. They are fun to have. 7 Best Transformer For Model Railway - LEDS.CC 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. no it isn't. The 1044 is just a 1033 in a different case. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Scale cars almost always have the number 7 as the second digit in their number [17623, 27241, etc]. "O" Gauge is what Lionel is today, along with "O27". It was a symbiotic relationship, the engineer designed it and the tech built it, then they both troubleshot it. Today, with some luck, you can get one for closer to $100. DCC decoders are one good example where the wire colors are critical. If you have a starter set and have had thoughts like this, youre not alone. 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. 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. Obviously, for a lot of people, the $700 Lionel ZW-L transformer is overkill. All Lionel transformer comparisons should start here. Transformer Calculator KVA Calculator Full Load Amps Calculator 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. I have noticed that my old transformers do not work well or not work at all with newer electronic whistle tenders. For safety reasons, the batteries were soon replaced by a 110 volt transformer. Ive written more about the Lionel ZW here. All power supplies will be rated for volts, amps, and watts. Stop it with your hand to full stall, and it goes up to four amps--sixty watts--trying to pull. If youre comfortable doing some work yourself, you can buy a fixer-upper, and my informational links will tell you more about fixing one yourself. Ive talked about why here. 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. I think the RW is a bit better value, but that could just be timing. Sell Your Trains Using a Live Auction House. IF the Engineer is the guy that drives the locomotive then theTechnician must be the fireman is this correct? Power the odd blocks with the other transformer. What size Lionel transformer do I need? - Tracks-movie.com Within that range, it is generally recommended to go for the most robust power supply possible. And of course, individual Fastrack sections are also available. Lionel 1033 Transformer Renovation Part I - YouTube Model train transformer- 6 steps to understanding how they work Classification/marker lights on the PRR steam engine, For Sale: Lionel 6-11127 Legacy Southern Pacific GS-4 Daylight, Lionel Bethlehem Steel slag car and ATLAS NYC Baggage car, Lionel O 2333790 TrainWorld & RBP Trains Chris Raines -Exclusive - Katy LEGACY ES44AC #2021, Converting MTH Rail king GS-4 PROTO 2 to ERR Cruise Commander, The Harpers Ferry Layout II - Backdrop panels completed. Multi-conductor wires with many strands of finer wire are more common for telecommunications and electronics. In some cases. Lionels HO Gauge items are back! The 1033 is not the same as the 1044. Does Lionel still make standard gauge trains? It can be a great secondary power supply for lighted buildings, signals, and other accessories. 10 Easy Ways to Improve a Christmas Train Display, Compatibility of Different Model Train Brands, How to Build and Wire Reverse Loops for Model Trains, Wiring a Model Railroad for Block Operation, Wire Gauge Standards for Model Train Layouts, Model Train Track Grades and Maximum Grade Issues. As you progress with your layout there are a lot of people here who will help you with any questions you have. This wire is very fine and can be found in many color combinations. 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. Our community is FREE to join. Lionel Trains|MTH Train|Lionel Train Sets| HO model Trains| G Scale|Dept 56 The smaller the number, the larger the wire. You have pretty much pointed up the major problem, everything is different. properly wired transformer can handle any amount of track. Lionel Vintage Model Railroad & Train Transformers - eBay Some systems will use bluetooth technology enabling you to control the trains with your tablet or cell phone.

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