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I found this transformer in a forgotten box in a basement. Im pretty sure it was underwater about a decade ago. My concern is that it'll be dangerous in the long term if it even works. Will cleaning it up make it safe?

I plan to use it as a 12VDC power supply mostly. I recognize I could just buy one but I figure there's no harm in a few bucks saved if I can do something to ensure the safety of this thing. The electronics looks good (no corrosion or obviously burnt/broken parts) except the transformer.

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Last edited by BillYo414
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Wow.  That MRC Tech II has lived a hard life.  While the main concern is the wiring from the 110 to the transformer and the condition of the windings on the transformer.

I'm not sure I'd personally risk it as you can find those for next to nothing these days in almost new condition.  However, looking at your photos the chord looks like it's good shape.  The only question I'd have would be the windings.  Since these have overload protection you could likely plug it in and see if it pops the overload switch.  If it doesn't, you could test the outputs at the various posts with a multi-meter and see if they are in the range of the posted voltages or if it is even putting out any voltage.  I might do it outside away from flammable objects though!     

Generally, these are really reliable.  I have several 2500s, a dual throttle 2800, and several of the older gold top MRCS and they all are very robust.  However, they haven't quite seen the abuse yours has.  These were the go-to throttle packs of the 1980's for HO and N layouts.

Last edited by GG1 4877

I am of two minds.  One agrees with the 'junk it' crowd.  The other (scrounger/recycler) says to put on safety glasses, grab an extension cord, plug it in outside away from anything flammable, and see what happens - you'll either have a usable power source or a good story.

"Hold my beer while I try something" or "hey y'all, watch this!".

Last edited by Mallard4468

I'm glad I asked. My mindset was that the transformer is definitely dry at this point so the worst that could happen is that it would pop a breaker. I just don't have the knowledge/experience/confidence with electricity yet to make these calls. It's a bummer it's probably toast. It was my dad's when he had a Tyco HO set back in the day. I need to run N20 motors at short intervals to open hopper doors. I figured this would be a cheap and easy solution or at least a great little unit for testing stuff.

Appreciate it as always guys!

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OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Ste 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

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