Powering Multiple Tracks with a Z4000

I'm far from being the expert that you asked for, but I do have experience doing what you want to do.  I too use DCS and star wiring on my Christmas layouts (11'x14' each year).  I have often powered 2 separate sets of trackage from one handle on my MRC dual 270 but still use the other handle for a 3rd set of trackage.

OK, now I hope the will help you out.

walt

Following on what Walt said, the issue is not how many tracks you power but what is on those tracks.  A typical DCS twin motor locomotive with smoke on will draw about 0.5 amps, or less.  So you would only draw about one amp running two locomotives.  The biggest draw is passenger cars with incandescent bulbs and traditional locomotives with pullmor motors.   Just watch the amps on the Z4000 and try to keep it under 6 amps per handle.

I tend to overdo things, and what I'm about to say is an example.

I have at best a moderate-size layout with 2 main lines with reverse loops on each end, one main line is about 40 feet long, the other main line about 25 feet long. I have one Z4000 that powers both independently powered, interconnected main lines: each throttle controls a main line.

Now, I will share the overdone part. I have another Z4000 that powers 8 independently powered sidings and 1 passing siding. I use Atlas Heavy Duty connectors/switches to turn power on and off for the sidings.

Next, is the outrageously overdone part. I have a 3rd Z4000 to provide power to one more long siding, two short sidings and a few accessories.

It's an understatement that I've been extravagant powering my moderate-sized layout with three Z4000s.

The reason I have three Z4000s is that when there was speculation that MTH might go out of business 2 or 3 years ago, I went a little crazy buying MTH products to stock up for the duration, including buying 2 more Z4000s. I already had one I was very happy with that I bought early on in the mid to late 1990s.

More extravagance: I have two ZWs; one powers my sixteen 022 switch tracks, the other powers numerous Postwar accessories on my layout, again using Atlas Heavy Duty connectors/switches.

So, Terry, what I would do if I were you is buy another Z4000, and then you would have a separate Z4000 throttle to power each of your 4 main lines. And, by doing that you would have a spare Z4000 in case one of them breaks down and can't be repaired. IMO, the Z4000 is an excellent transformer.

My approach is definitely not the most economical way to go. Arnold

As always, got what I wanted/needed and much much more!

Walt. That’s exactly what I was looking for! Much appreciated.

Danr. I’m running 2 passenger sets. When I powered up one with original lighting, it’s already running 4 amps. Will be buying GRGs LED constant lighting and get that amperage down!

Arnold. Nothing better than what I call practical application. Based on the above and your suggestion, I’m going with another Z4000 so I don’t have to worry about the number of engines, lighting, smoke and amps. Glad to know there is someone else besides me that can overdue things!

Thank you all for your inputs! I have learned a lot! Really love this forum! Terry