Hi, my name is Anita I have some MTH Trains they will not run on my Track have a Lionel Transformer I can't remember what model it is but I need to know what Transformer i can get run with the Lionel Transformer I was thinking about the MTH Z1000.
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More details will help drive a specific answer over loads of speculation, sweeping generalizations, and just downright untargeted comments.
Tell us more about your setup. What specific transformer do you have? How is it wired? Are you using any command control? What specific engines/locomotives DO work? What specific ones DON'T work? Pictures are worth a thousand words too!
Anita,
Nice to see your post. Would you first tell us what model number is on your Lionel transformer that won't work? And, how large your layout is? Not measurements, just a general description.
Are you sure your trains are O Gauge? The reason that I ask is that the most common gauge now is HO Gauge, and those engines run on DC current from a transformer. If you have your track hooked up to the AC current screws, then I don't think that they will run.
I recently bought a Z-1000 used in excellent condition. It easily runs two large locomotives at a time. The transformer output hook-up connectors, to connect power wires to the track (the black and red plastic screws on the back of the transformer) only put out AC current. So, it will not operate HO engines. I have been very happy with it.
If your engines are O Gauge with "command control", meaning they have a separate remote control like a t.v., then very few of those will run by operating the transformer throttle. The system called Lionel Lion Chief Plus will operate with either the remote or the transformer throttle, but I don't think that any other command control engines will.
Lots of people here will help you, if you let us know a little more.
Mannyrock
All my MTH engines will run on a transformer handle.
This is an old list, but probably still relevant.
For absolute maximum compatibility with all the locomotives, I recommend any of the pure sine wave transformers. Truthfully, I can't honestly recommend the MTH Z-500/750/1000 for early MTH locomotives, too many issues with certain models.
Lionel post-war transformers with a proper add-on circuit breaker are your best bet for maximum compatibility with all locomotives and accessories.
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