Transformer placement on layout

The Cincinnatian posted:

For years I have kept my z4000 transformer on the top of my layout and the TIU and AIU under the layout.  On the front of the layout I also have a control board to control for my switches just below the layout protruding from the fascia board.  I am thinking of moving my transformer and legacy base to reclaim that spot to build a storage yard or more buildings.  Where do you store your z4000 or ZW?  Thinking of building a shelf or a small cart to store under the layout table.  Would enjoy seeing pics of your control/command arrangement for ideas.  Thanks.

On our layout, I had EVERYTHING, i.e. 2 MTH Z4000s, 2 Lionel 180 bricks, 2 MTH DCS TIUs, Lionel Legacy base, and the Lionel TMCC base, under the layout, on 2 shelves (1 east half and 1 west half). Never had any overheating issues, nor loss/lack of signal issues.

This is what i did ,it works for me some people put there transformers on rolling carts ,making it easier to do wiring ,look at what some others have done & you will get a better idea what you want to do.

My Z-4000 sits on top of a Rubbermaid combination stool and toolbox next to my swivel chair beside my layout.  Easy to reach and add or change wiring. I have a DC power supply and a throttle for my LGB on the corner of the layout also next to my chair. Works for me.

This works great if you are using a remote as opposed to throttles

Here's mine. Two ZW-C's with 135 bricks, TMCC base and CAB-1, 1 vintage ZW (for lights and accessories). Everything fits, accessable,and I like the simplicity of it. Table found at our local thrift store on a 50% off sale day!

John

As small as mine is, it is a fold-a-way shelf or under the counter pull out shelf. Normally used in a kitchen to house a heavy mixer or something. It folds down under and is pulled up and out to counter height. 

I made a similar change recently. I had two transformers, 8 switch controllers, and two toggle switches on the table top. They were in the way for a future expansion so we built a control panel shelf attached to the side of the table.  It’s still a work in progress, below are pictures in various stages of completion. 

My transformers, Legacy base and DCS remote sit on a roll out cart that I hand built. The bottom tray has space for books (like Barry's DCS Companion). Only the siding switches and switch controllers are on the "deck".

The electronics are on a board mounted underneath the layout.

Mine is a bit crowded.  Thinking about expanding it upwards.

The PER is a [mostly] switching pike where one MTH PS3 SW1500 is controlled with a DCS Remote Commander, so power needs are very simple:

An MTH Z-1000 brick supplies 14VAC track and accessory power with a two-wire buss feeding track power drops and all accessories.

This worked for me.

I use this cart from Harbor Freight.  $40 after coupon.  Plenty of room for power and storage.

Now you see it...

Now you don't.

In the interest of running trains instead of playing carpenter, these carts are easy to assemble.

Co-Installed Conventional and Remote Controls

I have a ZWL and ZWC on two shelves (24" wide x 15" deep), mounted under the layout, on drawer slides, which I got at Home Depot.  I just slide the shelves in or out, as I need the transformers.  Generally, after I power up the tracks I slide them back under the layout, where they are out of the way.  I have had them this way for years. 

George

Here is my ZW set-up: