I have a twelve piece o gauge layout underneath the Christmas tree. A 263E with tender and five cars hooked up to a ZW transformer. What would be a good smaller transformer for this layout ?
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
I'm thinking 80-90 watts, but could be wrong. I think the cars full tilt (10 bulbs, 2 per car) at a 1/4 Amp a piece is in the ballpark of 2.5A.
A 263E- is that with chugger??
I use an old Lionel RW for my circle of track under the tree. Lots of power in a small package. You can get them cheap second hand. Just check if the power cord needs to be replaced, which is easy to do. This site has hints to help check the transformer for shorts - https://dfarq.homeip.net/all-a...onel-rw-transformer/
Just rolling stock on the cars no bulbs and no chugged I should have been clearer. Thanks for your comeback
I'd suggest a Lionel LW or 1033 -- They would both offer plenty of power just make sure the cord is OK.
Thanks for your reply.
Concur on the 1033.
Yeah, 1033. I've got a couple lurking about if you're interested. 
Mitch
My 1044 has always served me well for small layouts. Similar to the 1033 but made until 1969.
Lionel LW is a great choice. 125 watts input, the highest for any Lionel single train transformer. Lighted dial whose brightness varies with output voltage. Less expensive than most Lionel transformers an more power than the others above. I have had three on my layout for 30 years and love them. Do a search an you will find a lot of LW fans. LWs can be had for around $50.
Two of my LWs below
Charlie
Yes! The LW is a great choice. I like it very much, too.
Tom
+1 for the LW. I've always liked the large buttons for whistle and direction control, in addition to the other features already cited.
