Train slows with whistle/horn with ZW Transformer

You can replace the old copper rectifier disc with a stud diodes:

http://www.tranz4mr.com/ZW_Whistle_Diodes.html

 Also, it can't hurt to service the whistle mechanism in the tender as you would a locomotive motor.

The whistle button contacts may be oxidized and not making the proper circuit connections for the boost winding in the transformer. Suggest you get the service docs for the transformer and plan on an overhaul.

bmoran4 posted:

You can replace the old copper rectifier disc with a stud diodes:

http://www.tranz4mr.com/ZW_Whistle_Diodes.html

 Also, it can't hurt to service the whistle mechanism in the tender as you would a locomotive motor.

bmoran4 posted:

You can replace the old copper rectifier disc with a stud diodes:

http://www.tranz4mr.com/ZW_Whistle_Diodes.html

 Also, it can't hurt to service the whistle mechanism in the tender as you would a locomotive motor.

The whistle/horn are in the engines which are brand new.

Ponz

bmoran4 posted:

You can replace the old copper rectifier disc with a stud diodes:

http://www.tranz4mr.com/ZW_Whistle_Diodes.html

 Also, it can't hurt to service the whistle mechanism in the tender as you would a locomotive motor.

Good info.  Thanks!

Ponz

Ponz posted:

bmoran4 posted:

You can replace the old copper rectifier disc with a stud diodes:

http://www.tranz4mr.com/ZW_Whistle_Diodes.html

 Also, it can't hurt to service the whistle mechanism in the tender as you would a locomotive motor.

The whistle/horn are in the engines which are brand new.

Ponz

Ponz,

I keep falling into this same trap - I presume those using a ZW mean they are using a PostWar ZW (The only real ZW) and coupling that with locomotives of similar era. Since your locomotive is modern, I suspect you have an electronic whistle (vs air whistle). Replacing the rectifier disc or upgrading to diodes is a normal service item for your 50+ year old ZW transformer. However, since the electric whistle does not have anywhere near the current draw of the old air whistles, ACE may be on track that a general servicing of the transformer may be necessary.

An easy test to perform is to use the other main throttle to power the train and see if the behavior is different. Each side has its own rectifier and whistle controls so you may be able get by in the short term.

bmoran4 posted:

Ponz posted:

bmoran4 posted:

You can replace the old copper rectifier disc with a stud diodes:

http://www.tranz4mr.com/ZW_Whistle_Diodes.html

 Also, it can't hurt to service the whistle mechanism in the tender as you would a locomotive motor.

The whistle/horn are in the engines which are brand new.

Ponz

Ponz,

I keep falling into this same trap - I presume those using a ZW mean they are using a PostWar ZW (The only real ZW) and coupling that with locomotives of similar era. Since your locomotive is modern, I suspect you have an electronic whistle (vs air whistle). Replacing the rectifier disc or upgrading to diodes is a normal service item for your 50+ year old ZW transformer. However, since the electric whistle does not have anywhere near the current draw of the old air whistles, ACE may be on track that a general servicing of the transformer may be necessary.

An easy test to perform is to use the other main throttle to power the train and see if the behavior is different. Each side has its own rectifier and whistle controls so you may be able get by in the short term.

Yep - Mine are original Post War ZWs powering modern/recent engines.  Fortunately, they are putting out proper voltage. 

You are correct.  Only one main throttle on each of my two transformers (whistle mechanism) behave badly.  So there's no great rush.  I guess if I was capable of replacing the rollers and power cords, I might be able to handle the diode issue.

Thanks again - Ponz