Lionel 768W Train Set - Missing Transformer - Newbie

Major score there. I like the 125 watt postwar Lionel. Has a little more power than a 1033 for accessories.

Or a KW or a ZW. 

Jon

Mike, i dont know how handy you are, if these were mine, i would take the engine and tender to a lionel repair station and have them go over both. Cheap insurance for perhaps $40.00 or so...while this is being done, clean the track of any rust...if the track is rust free, clean it with a recommended track cleaner.  Oil the axles a bit, and remove crud off the pickup rollers.

Then, if you would, post a video of these running trains for your fellow train nut forumites....thx!

if everything is period correct i would keep it that way, you’ll definitely want something with a whistle controller. you really don’t need anything too powerful for 1 locomotive, but i’d get something with a little extra wattage for accessories. personally, i’d probably pair it with a lionel RW, unless i planned on expanding, in witch case i’d probably run a lionel Z or ZW. 

That is an extremely nice set in extremely nice condition. Take care of it!

As for being period correct, the 1938 Lionel Catalog recommended a Lionel Type T transformer for your set which is rated at 100W.

In 1939, the catalog recommended the Lionel Type R or V transformers rated at 100/110W or 150W respectively:

Since Lionel originally recommended 100+ Watts, I would say that the transformers you initially referenced are just shy or just on the mark and should be fine for just the train, but if looking for a nice setup, you can't beat a Z or ZW rated at 250-275 Watts.

Welcome to the forum!  I second BMORAN4s sentiments, you have a fantastic set in exceptional condition.  As it is/was your grandfather's set, monetary consideration is likely secondary.  However, as you mention that you are relatively new to model trains, it should be said that after a quick review of eBay prices, you are looking at roughly $2,000+ value between the locomotive, tender, and passenger cars.  The condition of your pieces appears to be very good, which really drives prices upward.

I say this just to make sure you are aware of what you are dealing with.  Also, if it has been sitting in a box for 50 years, it will likely have hardened grease around the worm gear.  Hard to say, but the motor brushes and commutator may need cleaning as well to ensure that it runs nicely at appropriate voltages.

I second REDJIMMY1955's comment of taking it to reputable train shop, professional, prewar collector, etc that is familiar with working on these.  I have been messing around with Lionel trains since I was a little kid, and without a doubt, if I had one in this condition, I would take it to a professional for cleaning and lube this first time.  I would ask to watch over his shoulder as well - 1 to get an education, and 2 to ensure nothing is scratched, dropped, bent, etc.  After this initial cleaning and lube, you can then perform light oil maintenance as needed yourself, no problem. 

If you ask on the forum for a reputable repair shop, person, that is familiar with a 763e in your approximate location, you will likely get some very good recommendations for the appropriate person.

Mike,

The 763 Hudson along with all the other scale Hudsons both prewar and postwar are infamous for being power hogs. They require close to 16-18 volts to get any speed out of them. 

This is why many prefer the Type Z transformer which has a slightly higher available top voltage. However, you can get by with a postwar ZW or KW.

In a modern transformer, you would probably do best with a modern ZW or an MTH Z-4000.

If you really want to stick with a smaller transformer such as the Z-1000 or CW-80, I would see if I could try one out somewhere with your engine after it has been serviced. You might be happy with the performance, but better to check before purchasing.

As has been recommended, I also suggest a complete servicing before running it any length of time.

Congratulations - you really have a top of the line set there! 

Jim

And I agree completely with JD! And i'm pretty certain there are 2 ball bearing sets in the motor that will require attention as well: one next to the armature windings, and the other where the shaft exits the casting.  Kalmbach puts out a Lionel repair book with copies of the original diagrams Lionel issued to service stations. It's worth getting a copy. By all means try to get an education about this set. BTW, don't expect this piece to be a speed demon. If I recall correctly, they are geared on the low side. Makes for realistic operations.

Chris

LVHR

Put me down as a minority of one but I am not sure I would run that engine or the cars for that matter.  You own a great piece of Lionel history and it belongs on a shelf displayed for all or just you to see.

If you want to run a train you can pick up a starter MTH set for not a lot of money.  It will have all the bells and whistles people want today and if you damage it no one cares.

If you damage this set, everyone loses.

Wow, that’s a beauty of a set.

What a beautiful set!!! Congrats and enjoy!!

Thanks so much everyone for your suggestions.  For now I put everything carefully back in the boxes.  My first step will be trying to find a service shop to get the 763e looked at and refurbished before I break anything.  I will make a separate post looking for a service location.

Mike

Wow! Beautiful set!