Fishman86 posted:Thanks everyone for your input. After some experimentation, it seems that the Torpedo's maximum smoke volume setting was my problem. With two trains running and the smoke volume on the low setting the train doesn't slow down and labor chuff. However, when I switch the smoke volume setting to max while running two trains, the Torpedo will immediately slow down and begin to labor chuff. It runs fine alone (when other train is off) with max smoke setting. For reference, I have the ZW powering everything for this display as it is just a dual-track ceiling shelf layout (see below pictures). When summing up the electrical load, I think I was pushing it. The six 21" PRR passenger train cars each have 4 lamps (24 total). The other train (hauling freight) has a lighted caboose, searchlight car, two aquarium cars (one of those motorized) and two Lionel railsounds box cars with the sound cranked up. I also have a few accessories....a couple searchlight towers, two bridge lights, four street lights, and a crossing gate. I have the TIU protected from the ZW with two 10-amp automotive fuses. It seems that as long as I have the Torpedo smoke setting on low, everything runs fine. I even placed a second MTH diesel on the freight track and still didn't have a problem.
I'd say that ZW is working pretty hard for the load you have. May need to consider adding some more power. (PCRR/DAVE is itching to give you a recommendation!)
Nice layout!
