Two Transformers for the Same Layout

Not sure I am the guy to answer your question, because I can't but I use a Prewar 1044 for accessories, a prewar ZW to run three loops and a CW-80 to run the kids loop. All U post are inner connected on track power maybe even the 1044 and it all works just fine. Not to sure about the transformer being in phase with each other but have heard of it. Would be nice to know.

As long as the signal circuits are completed separate from the track supply, and are not being operated by a shared conductor (wire) such as a trigger wire from an insulated track section, you do not need to have the transformers in phase.   However, it would be a good idea to wire them in phase in the event that you want to use other signalling schemes in the future.

Thanks guys for the information.  I really appreciate it.

Bob

Also be aware that the 1044 is the modernized version of the 1033, with the same outputs. It differs from the other, bigger, transformers, in that its common (return) terminal is not "U".   The return is "A" so when phasing a 1033/1044, with a KW or ZW for instance, you connect the A of the 1044 with the U of the other transformer.

Arthur P. Bloom posted:

As long as the signal circuits are completed separate from the track supply, and are not being operated by a shared conductor (wire) such as a trigger wire from an insulated track section, you do not need to have the transformers in phase.   However, it would be a good idea to wire them in phase in the event that you want to use other signalling schemes in the future.

I wold certainly phase the transformers for the above reason.  It's pretty easy and takes little time --- and you're "future proofed"!

Just because no one said it yet that I read, to phase a transformer with another put a light bulb connected to two wires and put one on each transformer, if it lights up you need to change one wire. If you don't have a light set up put a lighted caboose on a track and add one wire to middle and one to outside and slowly add power from both transformers and again if it lights up you need to change one wire. ( this is incase somehow you have a transformer that they are reversed like Arthur said. )

I joined this forum years ago because I needed help with this very issue of phasing.  My PW engines were shifting to neutral between blocks controlled by two different ZW's.  The guys told me to simply reverse one of the plugs to the power source because the transformers were out of phase.  Took at least 10 seconds to solve the problem.  

Also, I always try to separate track power from accessory power where possible.

Jerry

Once again thanks to all who responded. While I am on a learning curve about things electrical, you confirmed my thinking on a couple of points:

* Separate transformers for trains vs. accessories.

* For a smaller sized layout such as mine the use of insulated sections with accessories is not the way to go.

Bob