MTH SW-1 Switcher

Nearly everything - assuming you have a bell button, you can access all of the main sounds and station announcements. You can also use the electro couplers on each end.

The SW1 is a dynamite little engine. I've had mine, a PS2 version, for 6 years now and it was my LHS' layout demo unit prior to my purchase. Never an issue with it. I arguably prefer it over the Premier 44 ton switcher....

I would not advise anyone to run modern trains full of electronics with an old transformer that was made in the middle of the last century unless they have been protected.  I see this every week.   

Marty, I'm in the same boat as Elvis. Your advice makes sense, so how do we protect the modern trains if we're still using older ZWs?

Thanks

John

"I would not advise anyone to run modern trains full of electronics with an old transformer that was made in the middle of the last century unless they have been protected."   

Correct. The old technology can be good (not always), the new technology can be good (not always), but running a new loco with an old transformer is not a good idea. Protection, or pick up an MTH Z-1000 or the like to use on your new (and old) locos. New transformers generally start at 0 volts, and the old ones, I understand, can start at 6 or so. Everything will run better/slower on the new transformer. 

I searched some of the past posts and they suggest using a circuit beaker and TVS for each output. I saw people talk about 5 amp, 8 amp and10 amp breakers. Which is best for my set-up? What is the best source for these items? Some of the links to the suppliers in the old posts did not work. 

BlueComet400 posted:

Marty, I'm in the same boat as Elvis. Your advice makes sense, so how do we protect the modern trains if we're still using older ZWs?

Thanks

John

I think The DCC PSX-AC are the best. They will work for both Command (full track voltage) and variable voltage conventional. Current trip point is adjustable. Our club is now using them. 

I am using a Lionel TMCC Direct Lock On but its only useful for Command mode.

Pete

Please listen to Marty! His advice is to help PROTECT you.

Buy a modern transformer, it costs less than replacing an engine or two.

Modern electronic locomotives run different than 50 year old locomotives.  READ the instructions that come with the modern locomotive, on next to the last page it tells you what transformers are compatible.  Do not gamble $300 worth of new electronics on a 50 year old transformer.

Anyone have an SW1 MTH Shell they would sell? 

Old transformer + New Loco= disaster. Heed the advice of the experts....

The difference between a Post War Transformer and a modern transformer is the modern transformer has the circuit protection built in. You add protection to a Post War transformer that is as good or better with modern fast electronic breakers. The TMCC Lock On and PSX-AC are two examples. I run everything I have from Pre War to Legacy and PS3 with a Post War LW running through a TMCC Lock ON. Never had a failure. I would have gotten a PSX-AC had they been available at the time.

Pete

One more vote here for a new transformer. You could even keep it simple to a Z1000 and a controller. The breakers trip very fast if there is a problem. I still use 4 of them with my TIU and I have never fried a board if I had a derailment.  I use a post war ZW only for lights.