Type Z transformer upgrade

Personally I would just plug the Z into a power strip with an on/off switch. As far as circuit protection the TVS diodes are better off on the outside of the case, as they need to be replaced on occasion. Any breaker you use is probably going to be thermal, so not particularly fast. I would still use external automotive fast blow fuses on each output. They are much faster and will protect electronics much, much better than a thermal breaker.

I use a Type Z for accessory power on my layout. It's been rock solid. 

I bet the internal breaker, if it works, is less than 15 amps.

Everything you want to do can be put into a small box next to the transformer.  Personally, I'd want to do as little inside the case as possible, as the insulation is suffering the effects of age

---You do not have to look for trouble.  It can find you without needing help.--

I would not use anything larger than a 10 amp breaker.

Lionel made direction controls for the Z. You could also use a Lionel (or any other brand) resistat to control the voltage and the Lionel has a direction button on it too. I agree to just put the transformer on a power strip and I wouldnt use anything over a 10 amp breaker too. 

The Z is my favorite transformer. I do use one on my American Flyer layout for everything. It's just a small loop with some accessories on it.  

Buy yourself an old ZW to run your Trains’s & use the Z for Switches and Accessories!  That’s my advice!  Don’t try to make something out of your “Z”, it’s NOT!!!  Old ZW’s are rather inexpensive to buy now days at Train Shows!!

I have a ZW, it doesn't put out enough voltage for some old Standard gauge locomotives. It's a fairly modern ZW with 2 180 power bricks that I'll be selling soon as it just doesn't work for me. Wish it did work because it has everything I want but.... it just doesn't.

I've had old standard guage locos that don't like low voltage.  I use a Lionel Type A for those.  It puts out 90 watts at 24 volts, a simple device with just a speed control knob and a reverse button.

Pete in Kansas posted:

I have a ZW, it doesn't put out enough voltage for some old Standard gauge locomotives. It's a fairly modern ZW with 2 180 power bricks that I'll be selling soon as it just doesn't work for me. Wish it did work because it has everything I want but.... it just doesn't.

Pete,

You have one of the best Xformers Lionel  ever made ( The ZWC )!  I’m surprised 😮 it doesn’t work for you!  You should be getting 18 Volts to the Track !

Fred