Z4000 Throttle Tension adjustment

If the serial number starts with 0398, it is a first generation Z4000 that does not have provisions for a tension adjustment. You would have to open it and figure out a way to increase the friction of the handles.

@Jon G posted:

If the serial number starts with 0398, it is a first generation Z4000 that does not have provisions for a tension adjustment. You would have to open it and figure out a way to increase the friction of the handles.

Didn't MTH make a kit to retro fit a tension adjustment on the first run Z4k transformer? I'm sure by now it's no longer available.

@Fred Crider posted:

Our train club uses 3 Z-4000 transformers to power our Christmas garden display.  All 3 have very easy to move throttles. My own Z-4000 as a tension adjustment screw underneath each throttle. None of the club's do.  Is there any way to tighten them?

Fred Crider

Be careful with the tension adjustment.  A lot of people over tighten them. When you make it tighter it actually puts pressure on the Potentiometer shaft upwards.  Improper adjustment will make your potentiometers fail prematurely.  The tension should be set only tight enough, so the handle stays in whatever position you leave it.  I am about to do a video on the replacement, and you will see how badly it wore the potentiometer from the previous owner over tightening the adjustment.

@H1000 posted:

Didn't MTH make a kit to retro fit a tension adjustment on the first run Z4k transformer? I'm sure by now it's no longer available.

Not that I’m aware of.  The base does not have provisions for the threaded screw, spring and bumper.

Thanks very much guys. It's as I guessed--no adjustment; the club's transformers are at least 10 years old, but they work fine otherwise. I'm leaving them as is. Besides, opening a Z-4000 is above my pay grade. (They didn't cover that at 2019 MTH tech "school") 

Fred Crider

To Jon G.   When I last spoke with Don Lockwood (about 6 weeks ago) he referred me to you, saying you were on this Forum, and on Facebook. As of now, I'm not on Facebook.  Is there any other way to contact you?

    Fred Crider

@Fred Crider posted:

To Jon G.   When I last spoke with Don Lockwood (about 6 weeks ago) he referred me to you, saying you were on this Forum, and on Facebook. As of now, I'm not on Facebook.  Is there any other way to contact you?

    Fred Crider

I don’t put my email or phone on a forum reply, but if you are a supporting member, my info is in my profile or in the TCA directory.

Thanks Jon.  Certainly. I understand.  I'll be in touch along the way.

   Fred Crider   TCA  11-66000