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3 replies

Another WTIU Question...

M Mallet1218OGR Forum Member

Hey, Everyone!

I know there have been a lot of questions regarding the new WTIU, and I hate to throw out another one. That being said, I can't quite find an answer to something I'm noticing, and I figure it might be wise to ask before I damage my new unit.

First, my setup... I have a Postwar Lionel ZW with voltage suppressors running between the positive and negative posts. The two main handles each lead into the channel 1 and channel 2 fixed input ports on the WTIU. Those outputs run to two separate track loops, with a couple of 4 amp breakers tied into the positive leads between the WTIU and track just in case. I also have a Lionel Base 3. I made a wire that splits into two and attaches to the negative outputs of the WTIU to send signal to my Lionel engines. When I run trains, I set each handle at @ 18 volts and leave them be.

Aside from an occasional bug here and there, the systems are working well, and I've really enjoyed being able to access all the features on my MTH engines (I only had a DCS explorer and Remote Commander before now).

Anyway... My question involves a disconcerting buzz I am hearing from the WTIU when I run some of my Lionel engines. I have a Vision Line Clinchfield Challenger, and it runs fine, but I noticed a prominent "buzz" emanates from the WTIU when I run that particular engine. In fact, I noticed that the buzz goes away if I cut the smoke unit off. It smokes and runs fine, though.

I also have a "Century Club" Empire State Express Hudson, and I noticed a similar issue when I run that.

Think I'm risking damage to the WTIU? Again, everything runs fine, but the buzzing sound is concerning.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Last edited by Mallet1218
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M Mallet1218OGR Forum Member

Well, I'm messing around and came to a realization.

When I run that Challenger directly off of the Lionel ZW, I noticed that it also begins buzzing when the smoke unit is cut on.  It's not as loud as the WTIU, but the noise is definitely there. I don't notice it with the Hudson I mentioned earlier, though.

Maybe I need to replace the main smoke unit motors in them? Oh, boy... I bet that'll be a "fun" task in the Vision Line. I've been able to use MTH smoke unit motors in some of my TMCC engines... I wonder if that trick will still work with the newer locomotives?

I'm guessing I probably shouldn't run them with the smoke units on unless I want to risk damage to the WTIU? Loud buzzing noises, aside from postwar E units, usually do not bode well in the long run where our trains are concerned,

Last edited by Mallet1218
H H1000OGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

The buzzing is from electronic transformers like the ZW-L, ZW-C, CW-80, or a Z-Controller from MTH (not the Z-4000). Those transformers modify the sine wave output that causes the buzzing you hear.  The Z-4000 is the only electronic transformer that outputs a very close to perfect sine wave which would minimize or silence the buzzing.

Older postwar transformers always output a perfect sine wave unless you sound the horn. The choke won't have any effect on the buzzing noise that occurs when you run your TIU/WTIU in passive mode. It is placed between the transformer and track (center rail) before the TIU/WTIU signal is tapped in.

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