I just ordered a PS1 steamer from eBay, but I don't have a transformer that will work with it. Anyone have a suggestion for a transformer that works with this engine? Perhaps below $200?
Thanks!
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Any postwar Lionel transformer should work for one thing. PS1 electronics works best with pure sine waves. Most MTH transformers will also work, so the Z1000 or similar device should be well within your price range, for one example. If you have an old but reconditioned 1033, LW, KW or ZW, those will work too, although you probably want to have a fast acting circuit breaker added to the circuit.
All you need is a pure sine wave transformer and appropriate external circuit protection (fuses/breakers AND TVS diodes as applicable). Any classic transformer (ZW, LW, KW, etc...), MRC transformers, and I think most MTH transformers would fit the bill. Lionel's newer transformers such as the CW-80, GW-180, ZW-C, ZW-L and such provide a chopped sine wave and can anger some early units. Details are discussed here (but you need to filter out opinions and incomplete understandings): https://ogrforum.com/...d-sine-wave-question
Do Z-1000s work with 1997 engines?
The gentleman above indicated the Z-1000 is an MTH Pure Sine Wave Transformer... I know the Z-4000 are...
Ah. Thanks for the info! I'll be sure to get that one. I was looking at another thread that said the Z-1000s won't work with PS1, but I guess that has been proven false in recent years?
Some PS1 locos had problems with early MTH transformers. Cannot recall the details. All PS1s from that period worked with postwar Lionel transformers. Be aware that many MRC transformers are also solid state, not pure sine wave devices and are more likely to causes problems with PS1. Your best bet is a reconditioned Lionel postwar transformer with additional fast acting contemporary circuit breaker protection. The Z1000 probably will work too, but no guarantees with PS1 that is that old.
