IF I USE A CW-80 TRANSFORMER WILL THAT HURT THE ELECTRONICS IN MY MTH TCA ALCO PA FROM 99'? IF IT DOES LEAVE A RESPONSE.
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I don't know about "hurting" the electronics, but I have two PS/1 locomotives I'm testing here that don't work worth a hoot on a CW-80. I hooked up a KW and they work fine with that.
Hi Josh, the transformer is the basic and key element in operating O gauge trains. The Lionel CW-80 is the bottom of the line transformer and OK for very small layouts and basic locomotives. I would recommend purchasing a larger transformer with more power to run your trains. I bought two Lionel RS-1 transformers made in the 1990's. The transformer can run one or two trains or one train and one adjustable accessory power. It has a circuit breaker and on/off switch. I come across them on the bay and I believe Grzyboski carries them new for around $60.
I run my TMCC locomotives with it with no problems.
TEX
Steve
I think he's asking specifically about a PS/1 locomotive, at least I think that's what that MTH one has.
This question hasn't come up for a while.
PS-1 (custom made for MTH by QSI) does not play well with modern "electronic" power sources like the CW80 (or even the old RS type from decades ago).
PS-1 works best with traditional iron core, copper wound transformers. And it was pretty hot stuff back in its day - despite all the clinking and clanking to set up features.
THANKS BUT WILL IT RUIN THE ELECTRONICS YES OR NO I THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR OPINION.
JOSH
No. It will not Ruin the electronics.
No, I thought that was clear from my post! At least, both of the ones I tested didn't work with the CW-80.