This will spread the load of your lighted passenger consist across the two transformers. Unlimited Members, sign in to enjoy sitewide access. Forgot about light bulbs since I don't got some yet. If the voltage drop in the track is more than a small fraction of the transformer voltage, that is, a volt or two, you are going to have trouble running the trains anyway. Then the K's will do siding and switching yard duty. Starter sets almost always include a power supply along with the track and train. As Paul said, the power needed doesn't have anything to do with the distance; but the voltage needed does. All Lionel transformer comparisons should start here. I have since wired the new transformer to my layout along with the old ZW. A solid and stranded wire of the same gauge will be the same total diameter. 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. Because the runs are short and power demands so low, this fine wire poses no safety threat. Price Received. Price Received. 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. These systems still require a power supply but it only needs to supply a constant voltage to the rails. I can remember a time when a Lionel ZW would set you back $275. 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). For safety reasons, the batteries were soon replaced by a 110 volt transformer. They give a great deal of power in a single handled transformer, and if you run trains along with another person, it can be more convenient for you to both have a smaller transformer than for two people to huddle around a larger KW or ZW transformer and share its handles. The power supply that comes with these sets is usually a very small wall pack plug-in that cannot be easily expanded. The CW-80 Transformer was meant to operate on 120-volt, 60-Hertz power. There are a few standards when it comes to the color-coding. 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. Willoughby, Ohio - the home of the CP & E RR. Wow.thanks for all the advice so far, guys!! But if you already have a 1034 and dont need a whistle button, go ahead and use it. Ill try to find a link to it for you. * NOTE: We do not recommend loading a transformer above 80% of its KVA rating. http://www.lccuk.org.uk/lccuk Regards Nick Save Reply Quote N Nick12DMC Registered Adding lights to buildings, streets, and other scenic accessories usually do not require anywhere near the amperage demand of the trains themselves. As far as new transformers go, someone else may be able to help more than I can. Join Today! 4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars (15) Ages: 14 years and up. 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. In either case, however, voltage and amperage draw is low and peak for only brief periods. 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. The power supply that comes with these sets is usually a very small wall pack plug-in that cannot be easily expanded. This is where the Lionel transformer comparisons should begin. Number 26 to 20 wire (depending on the length of your bus) will be sufficient for most applications. (10 lights X . Professionals Need: Kindle Direct Publishing Indie Digital & Print Publishing Made Easy Amazon Photos Unlimited Photo Storage Free With Prime: Prime Video Direct Never had a problem. --The O Gauge Railroading Primer, by Christopher Ritchie. They are known as HO train sets because they are half the size of O-guage. We feature Lionel, American Flyer, MTH, Atlas O, Williams Trains, K-Line, Weaver Models, and more. You have pretty much pointed up the major problem, everything is different. This set also includes an uncoupling track section, which will disconnect cars from one another at the touch of a button, and a bumper, which keeps cars from rolling off the end of the track. Length of track or type of track doesn't (or shouldn't) matter. 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. Its expensive, but the same factors that drove KW prices down are also driving ZW prices down. Unless I'm all wet it sounded like there are somecompatibilityissues with certain locomotives versus manufacturer's transformer output wave forms. 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. 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. While most of the American Flyer products are re-issues using old Gilbert tooling from the 1950s, the O scale equipment is a combination of new designs and reissues. The 1044 is just a 1033 in a different case. Thus an appliance with a 15-ampere plug (the usual kind with parallel blades) must draw no more than 12 amperes. Checklist Transformer Size Calculator When sizing a transformer, you need to know the kilovolt-amps (KVA) that your machine requires. Best bang for the buck for command are the Lionel 180W Powerhouse bricks IMO. When you get DCS, keep the blocks and run the 2 sets off 2 Fixed channels out. 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. It does run on conventional power but not great and no whistle or bell. Sell Your Trains Yourself On eBay. All Lionel transformer comparisons should start here. The only time you might not get your full moneys worth is during operation of locomotives equipped with Lionels TMCC or MTHs DCS command-control systems. 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. 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. You don't want to try to solder even Number 16 gauge wire right to your rails, however. I have had the same problem. Sell Your Trains Through an Online Auction Service. ransformers were issued by Lionel thoughout the Post War period. Transformer capacity is rated in KVA (kilo-volt-amperes). There have been issues with chopped waveform transformers, i.e. 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. The KW has constant voltage outputs for accessories, the ZW don't have that feature just four handles for supplying power to four tracks or accessories if you like, both have whistle & direction feature. 5 years of Classic Toy Trains at your fingertips! Different wiring projects call for different standards. If your layout is bigger than 48, you may actually find trains run a bit better with a KW than with a smaller transformer. The two types of cars will connect together just fine, but when side-by-side in a train, they may look a bit odd. I will make a note here. Lots of good information for building any size O Gauge layout. I am currently running about 40 bulbs, which at 0.1 A each total 4 amps! Our community is FREE to join. The transformer included with your starter set should be adequate to handle a modest expansion of your train set discussed above. Besides the train and track, accessories provide a lot of fun and animation to any setup. 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. The new Lionel ZW-L is getting a lot of good reviews and is a very powerful transformer for most layouts. 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 This is because the demands for power are becoming more than your transformer can handle. The backside of a control panel can turn into a "rat's nest" of wiring very quickly. All of the transformers that have more than 90 Watts are in great demand today as more collectors are operating retro-layouts. If the transformer fails, you most likely have a short or overload somewhere in the control circuit. With multiple switches, lights, power supplies and more all concentrated in a small space, color coding and neatness pay off. They are fun to have. Today, with some luck, you can get one for closer to $100. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. Most recommend the TPCs over the powermasters The CW 80 will work to begin with. I'll take this information and run with it to help get me started. Here are some guidelines for the most common wiring jobs you'll find. what size lionel transformer do i need. Sign up for new product releases, promotions, and more. 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. 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. Get DIY project ideas and easy-to-follow crafts to help you spruce up your space. And of course, Lionel also makes lots of figures to populate your town. That was before all the technician assemby work was outsourced overseas and they left the poor engineers to fend for themselves. 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. I justhave a very basic 027 set (guessin' mid 80's?). Everyone wanted the two-handled, football-shaped, 275-watt powerhouse that was the ZW. Get the Classic Toy Trains newsletter delivered to your inbox twice a month, WELCOME TO THE FORUM Mike!! Lionel is also introducing a new 180 watt transformer to accompany the 80 watt CW 80. Transformers are designed to fail if a short in the secondary or control side occurs. Can't plug into outlet? The 1033 is not the same as the 1044. is always one of the first questions asked when someone starts to build a model railroad. To participate you must either login or register for an account. It will require a minimum of 108' of track just to do a basic rectangle before I add any switches, etc. The first Lionel electric trains were powered by wet-cell batteries, which were, of course, dangerous. Make your Christmas complete with a Lionel HO Train under your. The greatest transformer Lionel made in the postwar era was the 270 watt Lionel ZW. Ryan developsmodeltrainlayouts for public andprivate display. For a classic setup of a single freight train running on a 48 sheet of plywood, a 90 watt Lionel 1033 or 1042 is an excellent choice. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. I didnt mention the 1034 above because its easier to find a 1033. Its a bargain at that price. Twin coil machines have a higher current draw when in motion but are also much faster-acting than the motorized versions. The smaller the number, the larger the wire. Is there anyway of saying how much track it will power? He directs production at Lionel, the premier model train manufacturer, and he istheformer president of theConrail HistoricalSociety. 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. I would check yoour connections and wire size, just to be safe. The larger transformers could operate up to four trains independently. Lionels HO Gauge items are back! I thought you wanted information related to your layout not operations at a trains show. Great for learning all you will ever want to know about Lionels track system. As your layout grows beyond the basic oval of track that comes with most starter sets, a good power distribution network is essential to getting consistent performance from your train all the way around. Lots of good tips for building a layout from two of the most experienced people in the hobby. Yes, but the train will probably run too fast, depending on the output voltage of the transformer. 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. 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. THE BASICS "O", "S", "HO". If your going to run anything more that what came with the set then you should probably upgrade to something a little bigger. Most feeders will be only a few inches long so the smaller diameter wire will not be a problem. In addition to the wire itself, connectors like crimp-on terminals and terminal blocks must also be purchased in larger (and more expensive) sizes. Lionel trains value varies depending on design, materials, and era. I have a post war ZW and a KW and a Z, all three are good transformers, just meant for differant needs. If you fried a wire going to the track it may not be a transformer problem. A. Understanding the difference is important in getting the right power supply for your needs. Sell Your Trains To A Train Dealer or a Single Buyer. 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. 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. Again, if you have a very long run between switches, going a little larger is less likely to cause problems with voltage loss. The circuit breaker should trip with a click and the transformer should go dead. Improve ready-to-run freight cars with a little paint. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. 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? For a 300W set up this will cost you about 100. You should always, always test your transformer for safetybefore you set it up, andunplug it when youre not using it. By only supplying power to the trains that need it, you can greatly reduce your needs. They run on O Gauge track, but they are not exact O Scale cars. --Build a Better Toy Train Layout, by John Grams and Dick Christianson. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. Safety first. 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 There are also numerous static accessories that do not operate but add visual interest to your layout, such as the #24219 girder bridge. QUOTE: by Skyray "Typical engineer--you need a technician. If the second digit is 9, it could be either, so be careful when considering one of them. HO trains are very durable and are made with high quality parts and pieces to ensure the longevity of the Lionel train brand! Ive talked more about the KW here. This will solve the slowdown problem. With two switches, you can create an alternative route for your trains. The next evolution in model train control is radio- or bluetooth-controlled trains. (8 lights X 20 watts = 160 watts). They give a true 180 watts and have excellent electronic breakers. Here are a couple examples: As you can see, with a bit of experimentation and imagination, numerous different track layouts can be created. A new ZW will run you in the neighborhood of $450.00 or a little less depending on your dealership. You may never use all the amps, but it's usually cheaper to grow into a power supply than to continually upgrade. Adding more freight or passenger cars [also known as rolling stock] to your set is another way to quickly expand your railroad. 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. If you were to get a ZW 275 you need external short protection. 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. If you have a very long run, you may want to consider Number 12 wire. Here are a few: --The Lionel Fastrack Book, by Robert Schleicher. This tool will allow you calculate the KVA that you need. This type of transformer is cheap, its reliable, and its easy to find. 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. 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. The wire can also be purchased as solid or stranded. If you need a device that converts from different voltages so it can power another device, then a transformer will fulfill that role perfectly. Please see our article on Fastrack here for more information. American Flyer Trains were made in several gauges. Extending the Reach of Your Power The load voltage and load amps must be known to calculate KVA rating. I am assuming that your starter set came with either o27, brown ties, or 031, black ties, track and it runs well as is. We're sorry. 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. Take the hint. 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. If you have the proper wire size and a properly-sized circuit breaker, you should not have any problems using the old transformer.