Z4000 Capacity

The size of the layout does not matter,assuming it is wired correctly to consider voltage drop. The only thing that matters is how many engines and accessories the transformer powers. Turnouts only use intermittent power so they are not really a draw.

Dale H

Yep, Dale is right, just make sure that the transformer has the capacity to run what you want it to, then make sure your Buss wires feeding it are heavy enough, and that you have enough power drops to the buss. Use plenty of drops, you only have to put them in  once, and when laying track is the time to do it, rather than trying to add them later. You wont likely regret putting in more than you might think you need, but you will regret it if you don't have enough.

Doug

I find that the Z4000 doesn't like to exceed 10 amps total to the tracks. On my layout, two 8-car passenger trains with steam engines and smoke, and a single freight train draw 10 amps. Spikes from track powered switches will pop the circuit breaker.

Thanks for the information.  I finished Phase 1 last night and ran several locomotives with no issues to include a Proto 1 UP Coal Turbine.  I'll add some cars and a lighted caboose and see.  Phase 2 soon.