I Know that I can (to an extent) run mth trains on a lionel transformer, but it was very erratic. I was told by my hobby shop years ago to get a mth transformer. It has worked perfectly ever since. Here is where my question comes in, have you run a mth train on a lionel transformer without problems?
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Certain early sound-equipped MTH locomotives have issues with the Lionel CW-80 owing to the way it manipulates AC current to control train speed...under conventional operation.
Buuuut...since you're posting this in the "Lionel TMCC and Legacy" forum, what you're trying to do is a bit unclear. For conventional operation, non-electronic Lionel transformers are perfectly adequate.
---PCJ
Yes, I have run MTH with a Lionel transformer with no problems.
It really depends on what Lionel transformer and what MTH loco.
I ran my first PS2 MTH loco with a Lionel cw80. It would behave erratically and the sounds would play randomly. But when I put a lighted caboose on the track, the loco would behave normally.
Now I use an MTH transformer and have no problems.
Mth lists "recommended transformers" in the back of the locomotive owners manual.
To add to what PJC said, the CW-80 is NOT on the list.
Buuuut...since you're posting this in the "Lionel TMCC and Legacy" forum, what you're trying to do is a bit unclear. For conventional operation, non-electronic Lionel transformers are perfectly adequate.
---PCJ
You're exactly correct on both notes.
I've ben running my Rali King M1a for over 5 years with my Lionel Type V.
I will agree with Flash, I run lIONEL, MTH and Pre Bachman Williams as well as some other engines with my post war ZW, no issues at all.
It all depends on the wattage of the transformer.
I have had no problems using an american flyer Transformer to run Mth Loco Sounds locomotives and PS 2 locomotives. But the smaller like 40 watt Lionel Transformers will not run them. My Post war Lionel ZW Transformers run all my trains with out a problem
Nicks Trains,
My KW & ZW's have been running all my MTH P2 stuff for years, just connect it up correctly.
PCRR/Dave
I have a question along the same lines.
Since I have a couple of MTH PS2 engines, and I run them using my Lionel transformers, since I recently acquired an Legacy cab and base, can I run these MTH engines using this new set up?
I have not yet installed the Legacy, but wonder how this would work and how to address the MTH engines.
My other engines are TMCC and one Legacy.
RAY
Nope. 
You can add the Legacy PowerMaster and run them in conventional mode from the remote. The Legacy system has no direct capability to operate MTH PS2/3 locomotives.
I've had no issues running MTH, Lionel and K Line engines on original ZW and the modern MRC dual power transformer. If you use a classic ZW, I suggest replacing the whistle rectifiers with 1n3311B zener diodes (remove the nichrome wire). This will improve whistle performance and maintain a more consistent engine speed. Also add TVS to the binding posts of the transformer and add a fast blow fuses to the positive pole of each transformer lead to the track. Keep a stash of fuses handy and simply replace them in the event of a short overload.
This thread is eight years old.
Too bad as the question is still relevant.
@Thal posted:... the modern MRC dual power transformer...
The Pure Power Dual should be fine, but the AH101 Dual Power 270 is a no-go with MTH PS / 2 / 3, should be OK w/o PS.
I've run my MTH engines using Lionel GW-180 transformers for many years with no problems whatsoever.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
