fine tuning accessory voltages

Give this some consideration.  Resistors suck power, this doesn't, only reduces it.

http://www.jcstudiosinc.com/BlogShowThread?id=413&categoryId=

The J&C Studios O Gauge Archive is a site well worth bookmarking.

Pete

Resistors reduce current. They do not reduce voltage.

How about getting a hold of a couple of inexpensive PW transformers, say, a 1033 or even one of the smaller ones that came with the cheapest sets?

A 1033 / 1044 has several fixed outputs, and two ranges of variable voltages, with enough wattage to handle most accessories, assuming that they are not all operating at once.

If you intend to use track-referenced circuitry, (insulated outside rails/relays) you'll need to phase them, but that's a simple process that we can help you with.

Thanks Pete!

Much appreciated.

Mike,

If you are using TMCC/Legacy, have you considered the Lionel Accesory Motor Controllers?  I use them for airplane pylons, log and coal loaders, freight station, etc., and they give very good speed control.

George

Arthur,

Yes, I agree regarding the various taps on a 1033. I was just trying to work strictly from the ZW if possible to keep things minimal under the table.

George,

Hadn't really considered the AMC as my 9 year old is somewhat old-school and is really liking the idea of a traditional postwar-style control panel. So, while we do run legacy for the trains, he like being able to stand over the sea of buttons and levers for the accessories and switches.

Mike