Type R Transformer-Enough Power for Accessories?

OldSouul91,

I can't answer your questions but I am wondering where you got those nice looking terminal strips..??

Thanks,

Bob

I actually got those off of Amazon and they made power distribution so easy on this layout. Here is the link:

Joinfworld 8 Position Terminal Block 25A 600V Dual Row Screw Terminal Strip Dual Row with Cover and 8 Position Pre-Insulated Terminal Jumper Block - 4Sets

They come in the 25A version and 35A version, I have both and will probably add more. I cut the bus bars in half to provide my split hot side and ground sides for each terminal block.

@endless tracks posted:

OldSouul91,

I can't answer your questions but I am wondering where you got those nice looking terminal strips..??

Thanks,

Bob

Many thanks! I will be rebuilding my entire layout from scratch sometime this spring and those will be much better looking than what I just tore out!

Bob

I run both accessories (switch machines and uncouplers) and a loco cab off a Type R. I use fixed voltage for the accessories. I suspect you are okay with what you have now. Of course, if you really want a ZW, get one!

Good to know Ken! Yes, I prefer the LW and the R since they are both refurbished and look really nice, and a ZW is out of the budget at the moment. If I can make these two work, I will keep them. I haven’t tapped into the constant (accessory) pinouts on either transformer, so I think that is the next plan of action to try out. Which post combination do you prefer for your accessories?

I switch back and forth between BE at 16VAC (when using BF 6-16VAC) and AD 14VAC (when using AF 14-24VAC)

Excellent, I’ll try AD first since the lights seem to like being at 14VAC at the moment (I believe 18VAC is the max limit for the street lamp bulbs).

Since you won't be running all of the operating accessories at the same time, I think you'll be OK.  Another option is to add a few small transformers (like 1015, 1025, etc.) - these can be found at shows for $5-10.  Easy to replace the cord if needed.  These can be convenient when you need to vary the voltage for different accessories.

Thanks for the info on the terminal strips.  They look nice and the price is very reasonable.

That is an another great suggestion Mallard4468 on using the smaller starter set-type “brick” transformers to power the accessory circuits, especially since they are overlooked and so cheap. I have my eye on a couple of 1073s since they have a similar look to my other transformers and have the built in circuit breaker. And I am glad to help with the suggestion of the terminal blocks, they are really well made and are working well with my power loads. I still have two more that I will install since I am quickly using up my existing ports.

@OldSoul91 posted:

...the smaller starter set-type “brick” transformers to power the accessory circuits...

I use a 1010 transformer to power just the magnet on my 282. This way I can easily adjust the power for best performance while not overpowering/overheating. I use a 1033 for the barrel loader and culvert set for dialing in / fine tuning there too.

I ended up buying a Marx 1239 transformer off of eBay that was in good shape and tested (we’ll see about that). Granted, won’t be able to do too much work to these sealed starter set transformers but they sure do go easy on the wallet!

I just bought a Lionel 1033 for $25 (75W) and a Type Z for $39 (250W) at a local TCA show.  ZW (275W) were $150. Neither of mine needed any work.

The best transformer to use for 022 switches is the LW transformer.