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Layout power?

Jason StamperJason StamperOGR Forum Member

Hi guys,

I am getting ready to build a small 2 independent line layout.  Basically it will have one modern line and one post war line.  We will also have 3 crossing signals, 2 lighted buildings, the 445 switch tower (also lighted), and a Marx whistling station.  I have access to 3 transformers;  a pw 1032, a CW40, and a CW80.

 

My current plan is to operate my pw loco, the Marx station, and one crossing signal on the 1032 (I like running my old loco with the old transformer).  The modern loco, two lighted bldgs, 445 switch tower, and the other two crossing signals on the cw80.  I was going to leave the cw40 on the sidelines for now.

 

Is this a good plan, or should I pull the cw40 into the mix.  I could use it or the 1032 for accessory power, or to run one train.

 

Love to hear your thoughts.  Oh and last question, what do you guys use paneled voltmeters for, should I think about adding those?

 

thanks!

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M MoonmanOGR Forum Member

Hi Jason,

The way that you described will work. Most will suggest that you run all of the accessories on separate power. That would be the CW-40.

 

As a train operator, an electric meter is needed. You can get an inexpensive meter at Harbor freight that will be accurate enough. The small clamp style will provide measurement for AC volts and easy amperage readings. The panel meters can come later.

AcelaNYPAcelaNYPOGR Forum Member

Jason-

 

I would go with the CW-80 for powering your locomotives/trains especially if you have passenger cars or locomotives with smoke and sound, as the extra wattage will prevent overloads. The 1032 has 0-11v and 5-16v variable voltage taps, which are ideal for operating accessories that may need a little voltage fine tuning to operate smoothly. The CW-40 is best for powering the lightest electrical loads (no pun intended), such as the lighted buildings (you can even use the variable tap to adjust the brightness of the lights too).

 

The CW-40 and CW-80 transformers have fast-acting circuit breakers, but the 1032 does not. I would recommend putting a 6A fast-acting fuse (such as Radio Shack #270-1012) between the 1032 and the accessories to protect your accessories in the event of a short. Postwar transformer circuit breakers are famously (or infamously, depending on your point of view) known for protecting the transformer coil, but not what was connected to it.

 

-John

Last edited by AcelaNYP
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