Can anyone recommend an inexpensive transformer for a very small G layout. Thanks in advance. Tyler.
Original Post
"HONGZ" stands for HO scale, N scale, G scale, and Z scale.
Post your non-O scale stuff here!
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All of the LGB starter sets come with transformers. I would think that they would be available on the big auction site. I think MRC offers some DC transfomers with a bit more power than the LGB starter sets. After that you start getting into Bridgewerks which are BIG bucks. They are excellent; I have 2 of them.
I use the MRC 6200 and they work great. I've seen several for sale on da bay recently for lass than $100.
You can also use any O gauge transformer and run the output through a bridge rectifier. If you want to get fancy, a DPDT switch will allow reversing.
Thanks guys. I am wanting to install a shelf layout, with a Lionel G gauge handcar going back and forth. I am planning on buying one of these (Z, N, TT, HO, S, O, G Scale Automatic Train Reversing):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/150925...e=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
I am interested to know if anyone has experience with such a device. So, from what I understand, I cannot use an O gauge transformer to run a G gauge powered unit. It has to be a DC type transformer.
Originally Posted by lionel89:
So, from what I understand, I cannot use an O gauge transformer to run a G gauge powered unit. It has to be a DC type transformer.
That's what the rectifier is for - to change the transformer's AC into DC for your train.
Originally Posted by RoyBoy:
Originally Posted by lionel89:
So, from what I understand, I cannot use an O gauge transformer to run a G gauge powered unit. It has to be a DC type transformer.
That's what the rectifier is for - to change the transformer's AC into DC for your train.
Awesome. That sounds cheap. I have plenty of extra o gauge transformers.
It is cheap - and works very well. Buy a rectifier with at least a 6 amp rating. Higher amp rating is fine.
I usually
-solder wires to the rectifier
-attach the rectifier to the terminal side of the transformer with a large zip tie
-hook the AC (squiggly lines) leads of the rectifier to the transformer's variable outputs. Either squiggle to either variable post. Makes no difference.
-hook the plus lead on the rectifier to one rail
-hook the minus lead on the rectifier to the other rail
You can reverse the train by swapping the wires to the rail.
You can get fancier and wire in a double pole double throw (DPDT) to reverse the train.
You can get even fancier and put both the rectifier and the switch into one separate box with two wires going in and two wires coming out. Then you can move the box from one transformer to the next whenever you choose. Plastic cough drop boxes work well for this, as well as the metal ones, if you bolt things down.
