Which Vintage Transformer for Standard Gauge

I use a Lionel K transformer with a Lionel 95 rheostat for finer voltage control within each transformer step range. Because there is no circuit breaker in either of these devices, either an in-line fuse holder with a ten amp fuse or a Lionel 91 circuit breaker should be used.

I run ZWs, VW, KW, V and Z transformers

and have had no trouble with any of them.

Of course I do the normal maintenance when I purchase

them. Chck out the rollers, and replace if necessary and

always replace broken/frayed cords.

Early Standard Gauge sets did not come with transformers.  Electricity was not standardized yet in USA.  Some homes had DC, some AC, some had to use batteries for power.

Local lionel dealers would carry the Lionel power supply needed for their customer area.

Tesla wanted AC power used, but Edison promoted DC power, but later switched to AC.

Prewar Tinplate likes lots of voltage, not as much current. I use a ZW that puts out 22 volts. Z4000 only puts out 20 volts. sometimes I run out of voltage with a Z4000. A small train should run on anything that puts out enough voltage.

A z or a v will put out 25 volts, and some of the classic period standard and 0 gauge work better with that reserve for heavy loads. I am referring to things in the same era as a 255E in gauge 0 and some of the big standard gauge locos (i.e. 400e and 408/402 locos come to mind). Transformers are like car engines too much power is just enough

Roland

A type V transformer would be a good place to start. It has plenty of power for older trains, room for expansion, and it is basically a safe design if it is in good condition. If you are buying ANY prewar transformer, you should get one that has been overhauled, or at least disassembled and inspected, by a professional who is familiar with older transformers. The rollers should be new or in excellent condition and the cord must be clean, flexible, and not have any cracking. Someone needs to look inside the case to be sure the inside part of the cord is OK. Replacing the cord on one of these involves a lot of labor; to do it right you have to take the transformer completely apart.

A V transformer is very similar to the more powerful Z, which is what most standard gaugers prefer for running the 408E, 400E, etc. We use them on our museum layout, but it's more transformer than you need for what you are describing. 

I wouldn't advise messing with the early style transformers with external contacts (i.e. what you refer to as "click" transformers) unless you are very confident of your own understanding of electricity and vintage electrical equipment. 

If you are open to a postwar transformer, a TW is a good choice. It puts out a couple more volts than most other postwar units, and has a separate core for the accessory taps. 

David, I have an old step type transformer, I think it's a T or S. I hate to toss it out. It needs a new cord to be safe. I'd let you have it for the cost of shipping. 

Let me know if interested.

Gandy

Go right to a Lionel Type Z. These have more voltage output than any of the other Lionel transformers. Plenty of power for Standard Gauge. Also has 4 separate controls. Even though your #33 set won't tax the Z's power too much, it shouldn't be long before you're getting something bigger! Trust me, it happens to the best of us.

I only use Z's for my Standard Gauge. No reason to use a smaller transformer and push them closer to their limit, the Z's won't have any problem.

ARNO

Wow, Thanks everyone for all the replies, you have been very helpful.   

I changed my layout to all original recently. I got rid of all my ZW's because of the postwar look, and went to 6 American Flyer 12b transformers. They also are postwar, but have that prewar look (at least to me). And they have loads of power. I did have to be patient, and buy ones in excellent condition. And I quickly learned how to replace to cords on all of them. They look prewar great!

David,

Most of the early prewar look better on a shelf. A good prewar transformer for your under tree use would be the Type V. They are plentiful, easy to repair and affordable.

OK, here is the transformer that I ended up with.  I originally was thinking of an early Lionel step type transformer but since I live in the Detroit area (born in Detroit) I stumbled on an early 20th century transformer made by the Dongan Electric Company of Detroit, Michigan.  They were founded in 1909 and their headquarters are still in Detroit, making industrial electric/electronic products.  There is a history of the company on their homepage and it shows a photo of an early toy transformer that is just like the one that I acquired.  You can check it out here:

http://www.dongan.com/About.aspx

I cleaned up my Dongan transformer, replaced the power cord with a new vintage looking one, added an internal fuse on the input and a 5 amp circuit breaker on the output.  It works great and one thing that I like about it is that there are 1 volt steps instead of the 2 volt steps that most Lionel transformers from the period have.

Nice looking period rig. The name is kind of interesting - it could fit right in with today's Asian manufacturers, although it's actually named after an American politician. Dongan means "Eastern Peace" in Mandarin. 

Where did you find that repro cord?  It's pretty cool.

BTW, if you need more power later,  the Lionel type Z is the way to go.  I have 5 of them and I paid between $25 to $45 for each.  Only repairs needed were replacing some cords and rollers. 

Edit-Written 16hrs before hand, but forgot to hit submit-.

Keep an eye on the ac cycles, some old ones are not meant for use on 60hz used in AC today. I use a beat up 75w 22.5 volt Jefferson Midget because its a bit different. Its a stepped adjustment, straight sliding handle, but internal contacts.  I am using it soon, but would be willing to swap for something else. I'm in Taylor, south of 94&Tel., just past the Viaduct.

 A Jefferson Powerhouse is another unique one, if you can find it. A transformer with an extended handle, bent so it was protruding from the eves, is hidden in a red brick(paper) powerhouse. With a working porch light over its entrance door, so you would know if its on. A lift of the roof gave access to the inside. The "shell" was made of strong pressboard/cardboard, and covered in brick paper, they have a look that makes you wonder if it isn't homemade.

I purchased mine off of Ebay.  Do a search under "cloth covered twisted wire" and you will find companies that sell reproduction vintage wire, plugs, sockets, etc.  Mine came from a seller called "Snake Head Vintage".  Or, if you don't like Ebay, here is an online company you can purchase from:

http://www.colorcord.com/