Skip to main content

I want to power a two track mainline in a 20x40 layout.  I run tmcc/legacy only.  Looking for a good/reliable power source that isn't too expensive. 

 

Should I just use some kind of power bricks or should I go with a transformer.  If transformer old ZW or modern mthz400 or something else.  I will run passenger trains and multiple trains on each line so I want something with enough power.

Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

You can use "bricks" only, no need for a traditional transformer if you only run command, TMCC/Legacy/DCS.  If you need LOTS of power you can use 2 bricks in parallel or in different blocks since the TMCC/Legacy signal is tied to the common outside rail. That's the way I am configured.

Dan

found it:  TMCC TPC Cable Set  (6-14194) 

PS  You must be careful with this much power, it can arc weld wheels. Better to spread the bricks around in blocks.  Also, convert the passenger cars to led lighting to reduce power requirements significantly.

Last edited by loco-dan

If you never run conventional then the bricks make the most amount of sense.  If you ever need more than 10 amps in a given power block then look at paired bricks and TPC's.  If you never need more than 10 amps but you do want to occasionally run conventional then bricks plus Legacy PowerMasters makes the most sense.  

 

The ZW-L and Z-4000 are excellent transformers and they can be used in their respective command environments BUT you are paying a steep price for their extra features.  Unless you like the look/feel, can afford the freight, and have the space I'd pass on those on go with the bricks.

You mention price is a concern, however whatever you get spend the money on a MODERN transformer. They have the appropriate breakers to protect your trains.

 

I think all to often its the guy running a "classic PW transformer" is the one frying his modern command control engines during a derailment.

 

I use Lionels bricks and have had my share of derailments, never had any damaged locos.

 

On a side note don't cut corners on track wiring wire either.Thats a good sized layout, I'd recommend 14GA throughout.

Jeff,
   I have a  CAB1-L/Base1-L so how do you clear a short with legacy? It doesn't clear a short on my ZW-L if I just zero out the voltage on the shorted channel.
 
Originally Posted by Captaincog:

My vote is for the ZW-L since it can accept some commands from the TMCC/Legacy remote such as to reset a short from a distance. Rather handy on a big layout after you clear the track since you do not have to walk back to the transformer.

 

Originally Posted by Allan Miller:

My recommendation would be the Lionel ZW-L or the MTH Z-4000.  Either would pretty much provide what you need in terms of power and either will give you dependable service.

I'm with Allan.  Either of these two is a good self contained unit that can power your layout well, that has good protection for short circuits, that has meters/read outs (which are very useful - you will use them as time goes by).  Either will run conventionally or Legacy, DCS, etc.  The ZW-L has some advantages as to layers of short circuit protection and power, but the Z4K is more than adequate (and has big, digital voltage and current meters against the ZW-L's sexier looking but harder to read meters) and it is generally a bit cheaper - and much easier to find used.

Originally Posted by Dewey Trogdon:

For Command Control only, as others have said, the 180 watt PowerHouses which have the fastest acting breakers short of magnetic breakers. 

The PH180 does, for all intents and purposes, have magnetic breakers.  It senses the over-current electronically and picks a relay to interrupt the track power.  It's probably as fast, or even faster, than a magnetic breaker.

 

For strictly command, I'd go with the PH180 bricks, they'll give you basically the same power as the Z4000, and for constant track voltage, you don't really need meters.

 

I personally wouldn't recommend going over 10 amps on an individual track district.  At shows we do this at times as we have a lot of track in a single loop and want to run three pretty large consists at times, and 10 amps doesn't always do it.  Derailments do certainly leave a mark at times.

 

 

Post
×
×
×
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×
×