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6 replies

Power supply and controllers

R RockershovelOGR Forum Member

so.. I’ve finished emptying out the box and checking the stock and locos. There’s a Scout 2-4-2, a K-Line 4-6-4 and a Lionel 2-8-4 which seems much more modern. 

There’s a good deal of track, mostly O with some 0-27 which I don’t intend to use for now. There’s quite a lot of work cleaning track, I think but I want to get a test track set up. 

Whats the power requirement? Being used to HO and modern On16.5, I find the numbers quoted pretty surprising, considering that the O gauge track at my local club is rated at 5A max for a running length of about 70’. I’ve got two uncoupled rails and at least one gondola fitted with the uncoupling coils(?). 

I get that the reversing relay is in the locomotive but don’t understand how the whistle and bell are controlled? 

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S Steve24944OGR Forum Member

Go to a local hobby shop if you have one that carries older Lionel, or go on line and look for a older used Lionel transformer.  There are a lot to choose from.  See the list on this link to Tandem Associates.  The 1033 is a good start, they are not too hard to find.   Or go for broke and get the ZW   The best Lionel Transformer made.   Most all Lionel transformers have a whistle control ( except for the small ones )   For the bell control, you will need a more modern transformer.  

https://www.tandem-associates....oneltransformers.htm

Steve

M MoonmanOGR Forum Member
Rockershovel posted:

Ok thanks very much for those. I have no previous experience of Lionel. 190W output? Strewth... one question which at a quick glance, doesn’t appear to be mentioned, is that U.K. domestic supply is 240V AC, not 110v as in the US. Do Lionel controllers work with a 240V input? 

No, the Lionel transformers are 120 volt ac @60 hz. Most use a voltage step down device to get 110-120 volts. The 50hz will only cause some issues with the command control system equipment. Don't be concerned about the frequency until you get strange issues.

5 amps is ok for a single loco and operating some accessories from a small starter transformer. The track can handle up to 20 amp if needed. Running a small loop may require 2-4 pair of power drops/feeds.

Let me check my contacts and put you in touch with a UK Lionel person. They will help you with sourcing suppliers and such.

 

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