MTH Z1000 control question

Can I use a post-war lionel transformer (model 1033) to power my Z1000 controller?

yes

I'm thinking I can supply a fixed 18volt AC to the Z1000.

yes you can...I use a Lionel Powerhouse 180W brick to supply a few Z1000's.  A Lionel Powerhouse has a really good circuit breaker.  I have also used heavy duty 12V 20A AC transformers.  They work well to and limit top speed to 12V, fine for me!

Is this about what a MTH brick does any way?

Yep, and with a good circuit breaker

Also, will I then get a chopped instead of a smooth sine wave output from the controller?

yes, but a pretty good output compared to some....

Any advise is appreciated.

Dave in Atlanta

Ed

I think I read today in another thread that the 1033 does not have an internal breaker; I could be wrong.  If not, don't use it without an external fuse or breaker.

Thanks for the response friends.  Is a z-750 controller the same as a Z1000 controller?  or, will I get the same power output using my 1033 to power these?

Output power is controlled by the size of the transformer used as an input source.  MTH Z-1000 brick is 100W, the Lionel Power House is 180W, the 1033 is 90W.  The Z-1000 controller face just does the electronic modification to allow 0 to X Volts output based on your input source.

You do have to worry about the controller rating,  A Z-500 uses a 50W input, you would not want to try using a 180W input on that, because at max power you would overload the internal components of the controller.

The newer controller from MTH is the same whether 750 or 1000, but these controllers have been available a long time and early Z-750 are rated for 75W.  Not 100W.

These controllers do put out a modified sine wave.  Not pure like a mechanical PW 1033. 

If you go with an old Lionel PW transformer your circuit breaker is an older timed thermal meant to protect the transformer windings.  SO as stated above it is best to add a better electronic circuit breaker that will not only protect the transformer, but trip fast enough to limit or prevent any over current damage to a layout/trains if a derailment occurs.  G

GGG, have you come across any reasonably-priced (i.e., under $10) electronic circuits breakers in the 5-10 amp range?  I've been using marine breakers for about $6 each, but haven't come across any electronic or electromagnetic breakers.

No, but I have not really looked for one.  G