Lion Chief and Transformer Question

The ZW is perfect just the way it was built for your purpose. If you want to have power districts that trip at less than the 14 amps of the entire ZW, you can place individual breakers for each control handle at the rating you desire.

You will also want to have some kind of Transient Voltage Suppression.

That sounds great.

Thanks ADCX Rob

I received my reconditioned ZW that I ordered from Tinman3Rail .

I couldn't be happier with my purchase.

I had a question about it. I  called and he answered my question right away.

Highly recommended. 

Oldegreybeard posted:

Merry Christmas.

I have a question.
Can I safely use a Lionel ZW transformer to power my layout being that I use Lion Chief locomotive(s)?
Is it a simple hookup or is there something that I need to wire in to help prevent damage to my trains or should I just go with multiple CW80s? MRC, MTH, or other.
I've been looking around the forum and don't quite understand if it would be a good idea to power my layout with ZW transformer with my Lion Chief Locomotive(s) or not.
I realize the LC won't run conventionally.
I have a 6x10 two train layout 054 outer 042 inner with Ross Switches and Gargraves track.
I have seen several ZW 250 and 275 watt transformers for sale at what looks like reasonable prices. Mid 100-200 for inspected and cleaned or refurbished.
It looks like it would be plenty of power for my layout and would even allow some conventional equipment to be operated if I acquire some. Some include diodes for protection. Protection of the Transformer or the Train.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

P.S. I'm asking on the "other forum" as well.

 

Firstly... There’s another forum!?!?- To quote Vizzini from the classic movie “The Princess Bride” - “Inconceivable!”

Secondly, the ZW is awesome because you’ll be able to cycle the power easily. It’s quite the annoyance to have to cycle the power, simply because you left the train sitting for a while. 

I'd be wary of "refurbished" transformers that come with a grounded plug. The ZW is not designed for 3 prongs and is meant to (and has benefits) to being rewired per the original intended 2 pron un-polarized plug. There are some well argued safety concerns with regards to grounding the ZW as well. Here is a thread on cord replacement: https://ogrforum.com/...-zw-cord-replacement

This guy @Tranz4mr has great information and service tips on the ZW - explore the various pages of his site: http://www.tranz4mr.com/ZW_Checkout.html

You will love your ZW and it will give you room to grow while being able to service you well now with your small fleet of LionChief locomotives

Can't argue against external circuit protection (Breakers and TS diodes) which can be referenced here: https://ogrforum.com/...80#72805549112847180