Need a basic transformer

Even though I have TMCC, I still keep a Lionel postwar 90W Type 1044. Has two red handles, one for variable track voltage, the other for Direction/Whistle. Keep it around for WTF moments, it is reasonably small, analog/true sine wave, can pick up with one hand, yet enough power for one postwar engine. Judging from the red/blue arrow Lionel logo, I would guess it is from the 1960s.

@illinoiscentral posted:

Even though I have TMCC, I still keep a Lionel postwar 90W Type 1044. Has two red handles, one for variable track voltage, the other for Direction/Whistle. Keep it around for WTF moments, it is reasonably small, analog/true sine wave, can pick up with one hand, yet enough power for one postwar engine.

Does it have whistle and bell buttons?  I have a 1044 too.  I'm thinking though that the OP would also be looking for whistle and bell buttons.

Speaking of the OP.  @phillman, before you assume that the transformer is the problem realize that the locomotive may instead be the problem in your case.

What is MTH's Product Number?

Mike

I believe a New MTH Z-1000 transformer is what you need.

LW runs all of my twin motor engines and has accessory posts. Cost is about $60 on e bay.

Will the Lionel CW80 adequately run MTH locomotives in conventional mode?  Would the horn and bell button work? 

Older MTH engines don’t ply well with the CW80.
The Z1000 is a good choice

MarkVB,  Thanks.  Would the Z1000 reliably run the non-MTH locomotives? 

I haven’t had any problems with it. I use it with Lionchief Plus, MTH PS1 and some newish Lionel conventional engines. I haven’t tried it with post-war.

I run conventional with Lionel Type V, Type Z , and Type R transformers (all pre-1950), with homebuilt horn/whistle and direction controls, but Lionel add-on ones could be used. I run Lionel, MTH, Weaver, and Williams engines, but don't think I own any Atlas ones. I own a rebuilt Lionel KW transformer, but it runs the bell only (diode was installed backward by rebuilder) so is not currently in use. I don't recommend the Type R, as some locos require toggling between its two voltage ranges (I installed a toggle to do so). Type V and Z should power anything you own and to spare.  BTW, I know I'm a dinosaur not familiar with many later and newer options. I also like to buy cheap and vintage.