Transformer Question

Didn't your set come with a CW80 transformer?  If so, that will be sufficient to run your train this year.  I have a PE set that I have added all of the add-on cars to and the CW80 I have runs them all.  I do not run accessories from it though I believe I could run a couple.

What sort of accessories/buildings are you looking at having on your Christmas layout?  Department 56 buildings *CAN* be lit from a transformer but they usually come with their own system.

Looking forward, I'd consider an MTH Z4000.

Stan I would sugest the MTH Z1000 it is a 100 watt  and has 14volt acc ports .. They can be bought  for around 85. dollars give or take a buck or two..

I agree---unless you are building an intermediate sized layout there is no need for a Z4000.   That being said--you can never go wrong with owning one if you find a good deal on one.

--Greg

stan,,  yes,  the z-1000 is quality.  it would be my first choice for your present needs.

The Z1000 is a much better transformer. 

Ditto

Z-1000 transformer by MTH is the way to go, top quality, have had mine 5 years and it had been a demo unit for 2 years at the LHS layout and never a problem, plus it will run any brand of locomotive because the transformer puts out a pure 360 degree sine wave peak to peak, not a chopped sine wave like the Lionel CW-80 transformer plus they have had their share of problems, use them for accessories, small layouts, and/or trolley runs. LHS was closing and I bought it for 35 dollars, best 35 dollars ever spent, loved it so much I bought another one from Trainworld this year for another layout line and plan to get another one for my 3rd line to replace a CW-80, then that will be used only for accessory power. Layout under major revamping so it will probably be spring before buying the next Z-1000, hopefully I'm ready for it by then.