I've had one Lionel Postwar 275Watt ZW for 3 years or so. To my disappointment, the throttle control on the left side went bust recently. No power comes out of the A hot post or its corresponding U ground post.
I'm not as familiar with older Lionel equipment as the usual train guy, so does anyone have an idea what's wrong with it?
Replies sorted oldest to newest
A common problem w/ the older transformers are that the binding posts have a habit of 'breaking off', right where the the power wire is connected. Remove the center section (cover ), and check the corresponding 'hot' post. You will probably find it dis-cannected. Replacements are available that are threaded on both ends and easy to install. Cost about $ .75 each. If this is the case, I would replace all 8 posts.
"The Old Man" 
I have the same problem. Thanks for a solution.
Before working on the transformer, UNPLUG IT FIRST!! 
OK, that may sound like a dumb statement, but I have seen many dumb & untrained people working on things like this and have electricity connected.
Dennis
Harry "The Old Man" Henning!! We are honoured by your presence. I've yet to welcome you to the forum. "You Are Welcome", Please visit us often. It's Sponsors like yourself that make this forum possible, "Thank you!"
Mikado 4501 & Nicks Trains,
While you're at it, check the rollers. Replace if need be, they are not expensive.
Before working on the transformer, UNPLUG IT FIRST!!
OK, that may sound like a dumb statement, but I have seen many dumb & untrained people working on things like this and have electricity connected.
Dennis
Don't worry, I was gonna do it while in the bathtub! 
Anyways, I opened up, and happened to find the binding post was a tad loose. Fixed up in no time at all. 
Thanks all.
Before working on the transformer, UNPLUG IT FIRST!!
OK, that may sound like a dumb statement, but I have seen many dumb & untrained people working on things like this and have electricity connected.
Dennis
Don't worry, I was gonna do it while in the bathtub!
Anyways, I opened up, and happened to find the binding post was a tad loose. Fixed up in no time at all. Thanks all.
What ever it is that breaks in the post war ZW is easy to fix for somebody with electrical knowledge. I won't argue about what part breaks but just that something breaks and can be fixed without spending too much time or money.
Popi, thanks for the parts info.
Lee Fritz
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
