Lionel 1033 transformer flashing on/off

The circuit breaker is a thermal breaker and thus would exhibit the inconsistency you are experiencing. The 1033 should be expected to give no more than 65-70W consistently. Now, with that said, your load as described seems rather light (but verify with an AMP meter) and so it could be that the circuit breaker is just past its prime (not uncommon!). You can rewire in 5 amp breaker fairly easily.

Sounds like the CB contact points.  In repairing many 1033's I'm discovering age is playing havoc with the circuit breaker.  Sometimes sanding and cleaning the points helps.  Otherwise the CB needs to be replaced.

Sounds like, as mentioned above, the breaker is weak and when apply an amp load to it it will trip the breaker.

Best thing to do is eliminate the breaker and replace it with a UCB-6 automotive circuit breaker which can be purchased at any larger auto parts store.

What I do is cut out the old breaker with a Dremel tool. Hot glue a new automotive circuit breaker towards the bottom of the transformer and solder new wires between the circuit breaker and the terminal strip where the old breaker was wired into.

What amps is the UCB-6 automotive circuit breaker that I am looking for?

I have two 1033, so I may as well upgrade both of them.

Thanks everyone for your help. This forum is sure a great resource to keep moving forward in this wonderful hobby.

Thanks:

The UCB-6 is a 6A circuit breaker. Pretty much any 5A automotive breaker from your local autoparts store will do.