what size lionel transformer do i need

It was a symbiotic relationship, the engineer designed it and the tech built it, then they both troubleshot it. As far as new transformers go, someone else may be able to help more than I can. DCC is less common in starter sets, but some are available. The Lionel motor is a collection of four electromagnetic plates with a rotating sweeper arm called a brush. Lionel Vintage Model Railroad & Train Transformers - eBay Different wiring projects call for different standards. Lionel 1033 Transformer Renovation Part I Peter Fenzel 306 subscribers Subscribe 11K views 3 years ago Lionel 1033 Transformer gets cleaned up, a new power cord, a new whistle rectifier. :-). 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. To participate you must either login or register for an account. The iconic and legendary 270-watt Lionel ZW was the biggest and best transformer Lionel made in the postwar era. PDF Lionel CW-80 Transformer Owner's Manual - thomconte.com Some systems will use bluetooth technology enabling you to control the trains with your tablet or cell phone. Which Lionel transformer do I need? - The Silicon Underground Thanks in advance for any information, Mike. Come join the discussion about brands, various scales, repairs, storage, displays, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! If you have to ask,your needs are a lot more modest than that. 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. I'm not sure I completely understand your question. 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. And even when Lionel trains run on AC, they sometimes do some DC trickery. The 1044 is just a 1033 in a different case. Like all electronic products, you want to make sure your power supplies are rated by the appropriate body for your country (UL for example). The same is true for other electronic projects around your layout and inside buildings, train cars, and even locomotives. Lionel Trains Pocket Price Guide 1901-2022. 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. One rail is positive, the other negative. Its a bargain at that price. Solid wire is preferable as it is much easier to solder to the rails. 24v, 120v, 208v, 240v, 480v, and 600v). Price Received. Ill try to find a link to it for you. Again, if you have a very long run between switches, going a little larger is less likely to cause problems with voltage loss. The choice of a control system is somewhat, but not necessarily, dependent on which manufacturers engines you prefer or have the most of. $2799. The modern equivalent is the Lionel CW-80, but frankly I like the old ones better. The other type of cars are the Scale cars, which are exact or near-exact replicas of actual freight cars. You can use bus and feeder wires to more evenly distribute the power over your track. Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership. HO gauge is very popular because of its size. I'll take this information and run with it to help get me started. Fortunately, in the early 21st century it is easier to expand your starter set than ever before. 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. Scale cars almost always have the number 7 as the second digit in their number [17623, 27241, etc]. This comes primarily from the locomotive(s) but also from lights and other accessories. Mike to the forum. Lionel Multi-Car Freight Sets + More MTH Halloween! Kind Regards Steve, QUOTE: by Dave Has anyone here ever blown a transformer from hauling a double-headed Allegheny coal drag up a 2 percent grade?. Extending the Reach of Your Power You could have a poor connection that caused the wire to heat up. The customer will still need a step down transformer to get the 220V to 110V. Because the runs are short and power demands so low, this fine wire poses no safety threat. to run conventional you will need Legacy plus a Powermaster and Powermaster Bridge or Legacy and a TPC 300/400. Lionel trains value varies depending on design, materials, and era. Reading & Northern, Reading Company, Reading Lines, Philadelphia & Reading. Its a good transformer. Plug one of your transformers into each Fixed in. Here at Trainz, we carry all of the products you will need to go from a starter set to a miniature railroad empire. All about the Lionel ZW - The Silicon Underground Number 22 solid wire works best on most scales. David, looking at your layout I notice there is a two rail and a three rail ? If you want a transformer with power to spare go get a ZW! 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. Smaller feeder wires are used to bridge the small gap from the bus to the track. The larger transformers could operate up to four trains independently. Classic cars have a 5 or 6 as their second digit [25051, 16686, etc]. 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. 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. 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. what size lionel transformer do i need. As the motor takes in more electricity, the arm turns faster and faster. 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. (10 lights X . A locomotive on a mile-long loop will draw as many amps as it does on a 4x8 platform. "O" Gauge is what Lionel is today, along with "O27". LGB FAQs : Power I went to mth Z1000, jason's train shop has the best price's I have seen for these. All members here are welcome to drop in and visit. Ryan developsmodeltrainlayouts for public andprivate display. If your track joints aren't near perfect or if you should want to split that loop into two blocks, you'll double the voltage drop. The Best Technical and Innovative Podcasts you should Listen, Essay Writing Service: The Best Solution for Busy Students, 6 The Best Alternatives for WhatsApp for Android, The Best Solar Street Light Manufacturers Across the World, Ultimate packing list while travelling with your dog. How to Properly Size a Transformer | Behler-Young We use a ZW 275 and a KW on this, so 405 watts. Lionel is also introducing a new 180 watt transformer to accompany the 80 watt CW 80. Although all Lionel cars operate on O Gauge track, the bodies of the cars are made in two slightly different sizes. Twin coil machines have a higher current draw when in motion but are also much faster-acting than the motorized versions. The multi-conductor wire is also available. However, in the future if you continue in the hobby and your roster expands you may acquire motive power which requires larger curves than what came with your set. This is a old school approach for sizing cables & transformers or appliances in the electrical trade, & has never let us down. I would check yoour connections and wire size, just to be safe. I have had the same problem. 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. 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. Its expensive, but the same factors that drove KW prices down are also driving ZW prices down. But if you already have a 1034 and dont need a whistle button, go ahead and use it. Tales From Harmon Shops, WTB: LIONEL AUTRORACKS SPECIFICALLY SOUTHERN,GRAND TRUNK,BNSF,FERROMEX. --I need a station for the train to stop at. Can't plug into outlet? how much track can a transformer handle? | Model Train Forum Unless I'm all wet it sounded like there are somecompatibilityissues with certain locomotives versus manufacturer's transformer output wave forms. It is not uncommon to see 50-year-old transformers still going strong on a model railroad. 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. 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. This signifies compatibility with 50 Hertz power. American Flyer Trains were made in several gauges. 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. I have purchased diodes to put into the older transformers to see if this resolves the issue with newer tenders. 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). Classic Toy Trains 5-Year Collection 2015-2019 DVD-ROM. 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. The polarities can be reversed to change the direction of the train. Early issues used a Bakelite case while later releases had a case made out of plastic. 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. 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. I am assuming that your starter set came with either o27, brown ties, or 031, black ties, track and it runs well as is. 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. Model Train Track & Transformer at Lionel Trains Lionel Model Railroad and Train Transformers for sale | eBay Get the newest photos, videos, stories, and more from Trains.com brands. They do not include a track or power supply, so you will need to buy both separately. The car on the left is scale, and the one on the right is the classic, underscale size. Within that range, it is generally recommended to go for the most robust power supply possible. Members enjoy 15% off any purchase in our store. The locomotives are battery-powered and made of durable plastic. As your layout grows so, too, will its power demand. 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. 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. is always one of the first questions asked when someone starts to build a model railroad. ransformers were issued by Lionel thoughout the Post War period. 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. Power the odd blocks with the other transformer. Get updates and special offers via email from Trains.com brands! 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. To determine the maximum transformer current, divide the transformer VA by transformer secondary voltage. There are a few standards when it comes to the color-coding. That means there are lots of them. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. Our community is FREE to join. My question is this in order that this doesn't happen again what type of transformer would you recommend? 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. A small set that came with track, transformer, etc. Sell Your Trains Using a Live Auction House. Price Received. The Lionel 1033 is a great choice for small or medium-sized layouts. Outdoor railroads are, of course, an exception! 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. Here are some simple definitions for these electrical terms: Most power supplies will be labeled as to the scales they are meant to handle. What size Lionel transformer do I need? But were talking the trains that are in the absolute best condition and might not have ever run on the track. And both of them give more wattage per handle than a KW or ZW. 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. The typ miniature incandecents we use average about 100 ma of current each. Lionel developed and perfected its model designs and layouts during the Pre-War Era (1901-1942). 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. 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. A model railroad train set designed for use in the United States will have a 115V AC 60Hz power requirement. The circuit breaker should trip with a click and the transformer should go dead. I justhave a very basic 027 set (guessin' mid 80's?). Which Lionel transformer do I need? you ask? These transformers are much cheaper than they were even just a few years ago, but that just makes them a bigger bargain today. Ive talked more about the KW here. 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. Use this index to see additional details about the individual transformers issued by Lionel during the post-war period. If youre looking for Lionel transformer comparisons, youve come to the right place. They are fun to have. However, there are times when the solid wire has advantages, particularly when soldering in small locations. The article you suggest would be a daunting task, as you'd have to gather virtually every known locomotive and transformer! I'm guessing the MTH Z1000 is around $100 and the other suggestions are much more expensive. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Sell Your Trains Yourself At Train Shows. You may never use all the amps, but it's usually cheaper to grow into a power supply than to continually upgrade. I don't want to buy a lot more track, but then find out the transformer is too weak, if that make sense. If the transformer fails, you most likely have a short or overload somewhere in the control circuit. Transformers are sized by determining the total load required (in amps). VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Three conductor wire is common for household use. Of course, the answer to that question depends on many things. Is there anyway of saying how much track it will power? M3103. The motor takes electricity through a small wire attached to a metal wheel that rests on the middle rail underneath. 6 Best Transformer For Ho Trains - LEDS.CC Length of track or type of track doesn't (or shouldn't) matter. You don't really need a diagram -- you want to pick your interval (some would recommend as often as 3'), drill a hole down through your base, and connect a wire to a bus which runs beneath the layout and connects to your transformer (obviously, you need two wires, one for each powered rail). 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. He directs production at Lionel, the premier model train manufacturer, and he istheformer president of theConrail HistoricalSociety. Lionel is also introducing a new 180 watt transformer to accompany the 80 watt CW 80. 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. A. Keep the power supplies in an area where they get plenty of air circulation to prevent overheating. I didnt mention the 1034 above because its easier to find a 1033. A small set that came with track, transformer, etc. My question is.how big of a transformer will I need to power this thing? Sell Your Trains Through an Online Auction Service. This thing has more power then I will ever need. I have noticed that my old transformers do not work well or not work at all with newer electronic whistle tenders. Transformer sizing for new systems --I wish I had some more cars to put behind the engine. Lots of good tips for building a layout from two of the most experienced people in the hobby. It can run four tracks at one time, so you layout can grow. When you get DCS, keep the blocks and run the 2 sets off 2 Fixed channels out. Buyers truly want all-original trains that have never been tampered with. Forgot about light bulbs since I don't got some yet. Sell Your Trains Yourself On eBay. All power supplies will be rated for volts, amps, and watts. Ryan Kunkle is a nationally recognized professional model train expert and writer with over 25 years of experience. Smaller layouts (a typical 4 foot by 8 foot being a good example) can usually get by with Number16 since the length of the run from the power supply to the track is never more than a few feet. Both are lighted. The greatest transformer Lionel made in the postwar era was the 270 watt Lionel ZW. The 190-wattLionel KWwas the second biggest and second best transformer of the postwar era. 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. The power supply that comes with these sets is usually a very small wall pack plug-in that cannot be easily expanded. I have since wired the new transformer to my layout along with the old ZW. Understanding Electrical Supplies and Controls. RemembertheVeterans. With two switches, you can create an alternative route for your trains. Make sure you are getting the right type of power supply for your layout. Tech Support for the OGR Forum (NOT FOR TRAINS), PRR fellas!lets build an S2!! Starter sets almost always include a power supply along with the track and train. Don't just discard your starter set pack, though. 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. Do not connect this product to any other power supply. Why Do Lionel Trains Have 3 Rails? | Worldwide Rails They run on three rail 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. 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. When you block a person, they can no longer invite you to a private message or post to your profile wall. Adding lights to buildings, streets, and other scenic accessories usually do not require anywhere near the amperage demand of the trains themselves. In this case Id go with a postwar TW 175 watt transformer. 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. --Toy Train Collecting and Operating, by John Grams. While those locomotives and their sound systems are designed to operate using conventional transformers like your ZW, digital controllers are needed to activate additional features like special sound effects and coupler activation. Everything you need to get going is included, its reliable, and setup is usually very easy. I paid $75 + shipping for mine a year ago. As you can see, a lot of great helpers here. Amazon.com: Lionel Transformer The farther from the transformer the more resistance in the rails and your engine will slow down. Amazon.com: Lionel O Gauge Transformer 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. 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. I got a lot of lightweight transformers that came with starter sets over the years. Most command systems use a constant AC power supply, and trains are controlled by impulses sent through the rails. They are fun to have. 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.". --Build a Better Toy Train Layout, by John Grams and Dick Christianson. Over the years I have collected boxed (mostly liquor boxes) sets from attics.So I have a variety of transformers on hand. This drawing illustrates all of the key functionality of a Lionel KW transformer. 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. That said, if youre uncomfortable fixing a transformer, I wont look down on you for buying one someone else fixed up. 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 Traditionally, Lionel trains run on AC but there are exceptions. A Passenger consist can easily use more power than the engine. It can be a great secondary power supply for lighted buildings, signals, and other accessories. This diagram shows all of the controls and the pinout for the Lionel RW 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. Please see our article on Fastrack here for more information. 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