I have 3 Lionel 180W Powerhouse bricks supplying power to three channels of my TIU, I want to set up the 4th track but don't need that much power. Can I use the older PH-1 135w brick? I think it has two outputs, one for track and one for accessories, so I don't know if I would actually get all 135 watts to my track anyway. It would save a lot of $$ and potentially give the right amount of power. Does anyone use this transformer? Would I use the converter cable?
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Don't know what a "converter cable" is, but the 135 has just one output and will work exactly like the 180.
One brick can power more than 1 TIU channel. Jumper the inputs into the TIU.
I recommend an in-line fuse or CB with the 135W PH. The breaker on that one is nothing like the PH180, and IMO needs help.
John, do you have a CB you would recommend?
I don't have a specific breaker in mind, one reason I got rid of all of my PH135 bricks. I just use the PH180's now, they have an excellent breaker.
I don't know where my reply went, but here it is again. Don't put the TMCC Direct Lockon on the output side of the TIU, it will kill the DCS signal. I've seen this in three different installations. Remove the TMCC Direct Lockon and all is well.
I don't know if putting it on the input side would affect the signal, but since the fixed channels are really a straight run with just a relay in between, I'm guessing it might.
Wow thanks. I will not use the 6-22914 then. Back to looking for a circuit breaker. I'm really not familiar with them. Lionel recommends 7.5 amps but I'm seeing people recommending 10 amps. Looking like the easier solution is to keep an eye out for a 180w brick and get rid of the PH-1.
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