Power supply

How about another ZW.

I have two ZWs for about 400 feet of track (four loops).  Each ZW powers two loops and accessories.  I can run 8 modern locos and accessories and the ZWs don’t break a sweat.

If your running TMCC and Legacy only I would consider the Lionel Power bricks. They put out a constant 18 VAC.

If you ever wont to run a conventional engine put another Lionel engine through a double pole double throw switch.

There are six pins on such a switch, two center pins go to the track, the left two pins can go to your brick and the right two pins will go to your variable transformer. The switch can be used to select you power source.

Make sure the switch can handle at lest ten amps.

Also, remember your TVS diodes between the outer rail and center rail and make sure you use 8 amp fast blow fuses between the transformers and your center rails.

Have Fun.

I second the bricks.  The 180 watt PowerHouse had one of the best circuit breakers available, and it's a prefect fit for command-only operation.

gunrunnerjohn posted:

I second the bricks.  The 180 watt PowerHouse had one of the best circuit breakers available, and it's a prefect fit for command-only operation.

The 180 bricks breakers do kick quickly!

gunrunnerjohn posted:

I second the bricks.  The 180 watt PowerHouse had one of the best circuit breakers available, and it's a prefect fit for command-only operation.

I will third the bricks.

However, I sure wish you would have said 'HAS' instead of 'HAD' up there.   For some reason that makes me think the new batch might have 'new and improved' breakers that may not be as fast...  

DavidBross,

   If you are really want to keep the cost down, pick up an old KW in really good shape, the KW's have 2 adjustable running channels, for power input to the tracks, or accessories.  Here in the Pittsburgh, Pa area you can usually pick a real nice one up, at a train show, for around $50.00.  However I second the recommendation of the ZW, good old transformer, with 4 running channels, you will more than double the cost in most cases to acquire one.

PCRR/Dave

The old ZW is a very under powered transformer by today's standards.    I am a huge fan of the Lionel bricks.

I'd wait for the new 180 bricks.