Since my Legacy transformer died, 990 system, can I use any transformer that's 8 volts, 2 amp?
Replies sorted oldest to newest
The plug that goes into the wall socket, on any generic replacement, must have all three contacts; the two blades for power, and the pin for ground.
That ground pin must connect to earth ground in your house because it makes up half of the antenna for TMCC/Legacy (the other half being the outside rails on the layout).
99.9% of transformers (i.e., wall worts) do not have this.
There's a work around though, involving a short jumper that you would have to fabricate for the output side of your transformer in order to make a connection to that earth ground.
Fellow forumite @ADCX Rob suggests a suitable replacement power supply in this post, featuring screw terminals, which make the work-around a little easier (you can then follow the thread after his post and see exactly how the jumper is made):
All Electronics ACTX-12167 Screw Terminal Wall Transformer | ADCX Rob
Mike
Attachments
There's a good chance that the fuse inside the transformer has blown and the transformer itself may still be good. Many have been repaired by replacing the fuse with a PTC resettable fuse like the Bourns MF-RHT200-0 2A fuse.
Here is a recent thread discussing the replacement.
It may be worth opening to see if the fuse is blown.
Steve is right, the biggest issue is the internal fuse, I replace those with a PTC to make this a non-issue in the future.
@Mellow Hudson Mike Right idea about all of the above, with one exception. The TMCC transformer Rob was discussing is 12VAC. The Legacy Base2 uses an 8V 2A transformer. I've looked a little for aftermarket replacements without finding an exact match.
Original replacements can still be purchased directly from Lionel at the following link for $18 plus postage:
@SteveH posted:@Mellow Hudson Mike Right idea about all of the above, with one exception. The TMCC transformer Rob was discussing is 12VAC. The Legacy Base2 uses an 8V 2A transformer. I've looked a little for aftermarket replacements without finding an exact match.
Original replacements can still be purchased directly from Lionel at the following link for $18 plus postage:
It would seem spending $30 or so with shipping, would be a wise investment to keep that $2600 remote in factory condition
Actually Rick, replacing the fuse with a PTC makes the the transformer better than factory condition.
@gunrunnerjohn posted:Actually Rick, replacing the fuse with a PTC makes the the transformer better than factory condition.
True, the OP was already given that suggestion on his other thread regarding this, while requesting where to find a replacement. I guess he needs to make a decision.
Original replacements can still be purchased directly from Lionel at the following link for $18 plus postage:
https://www.lionelsupport.com/...4D2-B192390B5C857EAF
I have called them twice today and they no longer have that in stock. They don't have it in their inventory ......I asked them where could I get a replacement they told me they didn't know.
I guess they need to update their parts website, it can still be purchased online.
If your not comfortable with the repair, maybe John , or Chris from your other thread could help you. Depending on your location, and if shipping is needed, and /or practical.
From Rick: "I guess they need to update their parts website; it can still be purchased online."
Thanks, Rick and all of you. I went back online to the site you gave me, and I did manage to place an order for that transformer. I also called Lionel and kindly brought this to their attention. I can't believe that I keep running into this type of incompetence at every turn now, whether it is the doctor's office, VA, insurance, you name it, it seems I never can get someone to help you with clarity. Thanks again to all of you for your help. Jim