Transformer upgrade?

I'd look around for a nice used KW, generally the bargain per watt for PW transformers.

Lionel also made the VW, a 150 watt transformer similar in style to the ZW but with less watts. In my area the KW's are getting top dollar, so I would go for the ZW.

The MTH Z-1000 works great for me, I have two of them, works with; Lionel, MTH, K-Line and Williams.

Lee Fritz

I didn't look at the KWs. ZWs were again too much for me. And the KW can run a second train if I can ever expand the layout. Thanks!

A little more info about the KW and ZW. You decide which fits your needs.

First the KW has two handles and outputs for running two trains at the same time, however the whistle control lever is for use with one train at a time as they both share the same handle. Other facts about the KW is that it has two or three output voltages for accessory power, the ZW don't have that.

The ZW has four controls that can be used for running four trains at one time, two separate whistle controls independent of each other. Handles A & D have the whistle controls and B & C just have variable voltage control like handles A & D. The ZW has no other outputs which means NO accessory outputs unless you dedicate handle B or C to accessory power and set with a volt meter.

FYI, I have both a KW & a ZW transformer. Also have a Z type transformer which is a four train transformer, 250 watts, without any whistle controls.

Lee Fritz

I've never seen the dual whistle control of the KW as being a problem.  How many times do you need to blow both whistles at exactly the same time?

Hey John,

I just put that out there for information sake. 

Realistically how many times will you use both whistle controls on a ZW at the same time?

Lee Fritz

Rob,

Does the Atlas or Williams transformer have accessory output?

The Z-1000 does.

Lee Fritz

Yes, hence the versatility(much better than the Z-1000). That knob at the top labeled "Accessory Control" is the variable accessory output/voltage control.

And it really is a pure sine wave, not the "electronic" sine wave the MTH has.

I am not sure it the MTH Premier Dash 8 has a bell but with the zw or kw you can't operate it.  I know they have add on bell button but I have never had success with it.  

Oh that points me towards the z1000 then. I want to use the horn since all my old engines from when I was growing up didn't have anything that fancy!

This is the engine I have:http://www.mthtrains.com/20-2005-0

And you know, I think I misread that. No bell on my train but it does have a horn that looks like it'll work with the vintage lionel transformers. Or am I wrong?

Horn should work, but if you start getting new engines..., might want to get a newer transformer to be save.   I was conventional postwar until I crossed over to the dark side. Just one engine can do it.....  

I would go with the MTH Z-1000.

You have new electronics in your engine, you would have new electronics in your transformer.

On the outside chance, you buy something because its cool and it has proto 2 or something, then you have both the bell and the horn.

Get it new and it will come in a box with a warranty so if it breaks.... you get it repaired or replaced.

Just my thoughts.

Ben

You need to look down the tracks and determine if you intend to expand your needs in the future. Most of us tend to grow our layouts and equipment, so if that is something you would do in the future, then buy more power than you currently need. This is the safest course of action.

As for the best out there now, I prefer the Lionel ZW-L.

Z1000 but only because it has both whistle and bell control. You would have to add a bell button to any PW transformer if you wanted both bell and whistle.

John,

I hope that you're not feeling as if anyone is trying to make you buy anything more than you need now or for sometime down the road. Most are just speaking from experience. Take a look at what Rob is talking about below. You shouldn't need more than that for a while.

Originally Posted by ADCX Rob:

Rob,

I agree with you 100%. The OP shouldn't need more than the WbB unit for sometime. It will provide years of problem free service.

My train days are drawing to a close. I'm glad to see those just getting started seek the advice of the ol' salts.