Is it possible to limit/reduce the output of the Lionel 180w brick? I want to use a spare brick I have to power my DZ2500 switch machines but I don't want to throw 18 volts at them. 16 volts would be better.
Thanks,
George
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Possible, yes, worth the cost? only maybe. You'll need some sort of controller like the ZW-C, or an MTH Z-Controller to drop the effective voltage. If you can find an orphaned controller without the bricks at a shop or show that will do the job. I'm unsure if it might not be simpler to use a postwar transformer or small modern transformer to run the accessories than to hunt down a controller missing it's brick.
JGL
If you want to drop a couple of volts, do it the cheap and easy way. Use about six 6 amp diodes connected back to back in pairs in series with the voltage. That should run a ton of your switches at around 16 volts. Want less voltage? Add more diode pairs.
Since you are using DZ-2500s, I assume you have TMCC or Legacy. Lionel had an Accessory Voltage Controller (AVC) that you can find in the secondary market. You will need a TPC cable set or cut the PH180's plug off.
Let's see, $2 for diodes or $50-60 for the AVC... Easy choice for me. 
John, can you draw that? I'm having a hard time seeing that one
Matt Makens posted:John, can you draw that? I'm having a hard time seeing that one
Thanks, all, for the info. I'm going to give GRJ's diode idea a try. I think I follow Dale's diagram.
George
Dale's pictures are right on. You can use a bridge rectifier to replace four diodes if you wire it correctly as he shows.
