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More power, Scotty!!!

cngwcngwOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

I own several, and every time I look at them I marvel. The older Lionel type Z (250 watts, 23 volt) type V (150 watts 23 volt) and KW (190 watts and 23 volt) were great transformers. And, still can be today! If one runs trains with them, just use the proper protection, and for driving lights and other accessories, they are hard to beat. Two of them have 4 variable outputs! So, if cords and rollers are maintained, they are relatively cheap, powerful transformers, even today!

Old timers on here know this, but some others may not. For my DCS, I use the MTH Z1000 bricks, which at rare times, are not enough. If I was not so lazy, I would install the proper breakers for the older ones I have, and use them! At this time, only putting up trains for Christmas, I have elected to use the bricks.

For conventional runners, they are good, cheap power.  Just saying, keep an open mind if you need power! Others may have a different opinion.

Greg

Last edited by cngw
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BP Bob ParisOGR Forum Member

I received a circa 1957 ZW transformer when I was five years old in 1962.  Took care of it and was respectful of its size and power.  It is the main power for two circuits on my layout [the other two circuits powered by a KW] and I will occasionally intentionally "short" to make sure the circuit breakers are still operational. 

cngwcngwOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
@Bob Paris posted:

I received a circa 1957 ZW transformer when I was five years old in 1962.  Took care of it and was respectful of its size and power.  It is the main power for two circuits on my layout [the other two circuits powered by a KW] and I will occasionally intentionally "short" to make sure the circuit breakers are still operational.

Bob, do you rely on the original overload protection, or put modern circuit breakers or fuses in line with those old "bricks." Amazing things aren't they? I always wish my father had started with a ZW!

Greg

Arnold D. CribariArnold D. CribariOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

I’m enamoured with the MTH Z4000 transformer. I have 3 or them to run trains on my mid-size layout (only need 2 of them at the most), and use two ZWs to provide power to my numerous O22 switch tracks and accessories.

I’ve been told by an MTH authorized technician that the Z4000 has fast acting circuit breakers so I don’t need to use fuses and other circuit breaker devices that are needed when postwar transformers are used to run trains.

GeoPegGeoPegOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
@Arnold D. Cribari posted:

I’m enamoured with the MTH Z4000 transformer. I have 3 or them to run trains on my mid-size layout (only need 2 of them at the most), and use two ZWs to provide power to my numerous O22 switch tracks and accessories.

I’ve been told by an MTH authorized technician that the Z4000 has fast acting circuit breakers so I don’t need to use fuses and other circuit breaker devices that are needed when postwar transformers are used to run trains.

The real question is have you tested this fact presented to you? 🤗

George

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