Lionel ZW transformer questions

[scottdog123]

Hi,

I have a 275W ZW and recently replaced the power cord.  Everything went pretty smoothly, struggled with getting the spring loaded pins back in on both sides, but was able to get it back together.

My question is, since replacing the code I've noticed that the coil core seems to move or have play within the aluminum brackets that hold it in place.  This is noticeable when I pick up the ZW and move it, I can feel the core move inside.

Is this normal?  I pushed in a small rubber shim on one side to snug it up a bit (see attached picture), any issues with that?

Thank you,

Curt

 

[scottdog123]

Attempting to put the picture inline:

[BigAl 956]

There should be 2 brass coil support straps holding the coil stack in place. I only see one in the photo. The bracket on the right is missing.

[scottdog123]

Thanks for the reply.

I have both of the brass supports, just had one out when I took the picture.

With both brass supports in place, the coil can still move from to back about 1/8" to 1/4".

Is this normal?  Or should it fit snuggly in the alumimum bracket?

 

thanks again, awesome forum!

[cwburfle]

Did the coil move around before you started?

My guess: probably not.
IMHO the coil should not shift around. I'd have to look inside one to refresh my memory on exactly what is what.

[BigAl 956]

There should be bolts on the bottom of the case. Check to see if they are loose.

[scottdog123]

hi BigAl 956,

I checked the four bolts on the bottom, they are all snug and the two brass rods are propertly inserted on the top side.

I didn't examine or check the play in the coil before repairing the power core, only noticed it afterwards.

Wondering if there was some kind of material between the metal tab and the coil, or maybe my metal tabs need to be bent inward just a little to snug up the fit against the coil?

 

[cwburfle]

I looked at three transformers:

VW - could use something, coil slides around in the bracket

ZW(275) - has shims at the ends of the coils

ZW(250) - I can see a gap at the ends, but the coil does not slide around.

[rrlineman]

the Lionel repair manuel addresses this issue. the 2 tabs on the top of the aluminum frames need to bent in over the core to about a 45 deg angle to hold the core in place. they also recommend if that does not work, to use a small wood shim on 1 side of the coil. next to the aluminum lip or just tap the lip in closer to the coil.

hope this helps.

[Mazz]

Hi I just bought a Zw transformer !  I took it hom But I noticed the right Handel when I go all the way up and down it clicks. I thought  it was the carbon roller arm , i  took it back where I purchased he checked it out he  said its all fine he told me it makes that click because the arm is I bit worn ! But the transformer works well ! Should I give it back?

[Mazz]

Looking for some help anyone on forms?

[cwburfle]

If the transformer isn't right, then return it. There is no shortage of ZW transformers out there, and their price is way off from what it once was.
Why would you keep a "worn" ZW?

[Mazz]

thank you going there today returning it