Z4000 transformer design

I'd like to offer a suggestion to provide a safe operating environment. Why not add one more transformer dedicated solely for accessories? I'm using one Lionel Z Type for my accessories only. I will never have to worry about not having enough power for my accessories. I'm using two more Z Type and one Z4K  for my trains.

One large transformer may seem like an over-kill. Not when it will end your headaches.

Hi, Pappy.

Thanks for the reply. Good suggestion.

I`ve got to old Lionel KW transformer and I´m thinking to use them to supply the accessories.

Anyway, I would know if there is any problem with the type of connection that I'm using at the moment.

On the other hand, it seem that, there was a mistake in my last consulting. The Z4000 14 volts terminal provide 4A each one.

Regards

A.C.Sant Anna

I don't think it's a good idea to parallel two outputs like that. I would do as Happy Pappy suggests and get another power source for your accessories. Or divide the ones you have separately between the two Z4000's.

 I would know if exist some constraint with this kind of connection.

Definitely not a good idea at all!

Hi Dale, Barry, rtr 12 and Pappy

Thanks for replies. Very good and useful comments

I will balance the load in the two Z4000 and if necessary I´ll use the KW´s as well.

Regards

A.C.Sant Anna

A.C. Sant Anna,

Wise choice!

If you can, put most of the accessory load on your KW's. You'll have more voltage selection. Just a thought.

Thanks Pappy

God Bless you too

Regards

A.C.Sant Anna

I'd also add some better circuit protection on the KW, the old PW breakers left something to be desired.

AC Sant Anna,

   Pappy is giving great advise, use a ZW or a KW to power all your switches, freeing up space on your Z4K's,  the old Lionel transformers work great for powering switches and ACCs and for parts of your DCS also.

PCRR/Dave

Since rarely would more than 2 switches be thrown at the same time, unless there are a lot of incandescent bulbs, there is theoretically no limit to the number of switches than be be driven from a single Z4000 14-volt terminal.

If these are tubular track switches like the 022, there are two bulbs always lit for 4-5 watts continuously.

Due to the Z4000 having electronic controls, two Z4000 transformers might not be in phase with each other even when connected to the same outlet. I do not know how MTH is controlling the transformer output. You might be causing the current out of one transformer to be driven into the other transformer. This is probably a bad idea. I would think this is true of any electronic transformer.

MTH says no to connecting Z4000 outputs together.  Truthfully, I think the accessory fixed output is right from a transformer winding, but I wouldn't do it anyway.

From the MTH ASC Service Manual

Warning: Do not operate any transformers’ outputs fully interconnected (in parallel) as this will likely damage one of the other transformers or cause the Z-4000 to go into a protective overload.

Caution: Failure to follow above instructions may cause damage to the Z-4000 Transformer which may not be covered under warranty.

Antonio,

   Heed what Barry & Guns are tell you and run the switches from a ZW or KW

especially if the switches are the old 711's or 50 series that take massive operating power.  If needed put LED lights in your old switches & switch controllers, it helps a lot.

PCRR/Dave