1033 Transformer Breaker Size?

[Tootle]

I  have a #1033, 90 Watt transformer that needs a new circuit breaker.  I'd like to replace it with an automotive breaker but I'm unsure of what size breaker to use.  Can someone pleasse tell me how to size the breaker?  Thanks.

[KRM]

I would replace it with the correct 1033-87 breaker in the transformer and place a Bussman # BP/CB211-10-RP,,, 10 amp resetting breaker behind it to protect your trains. Like in the link below. You can get them at almost auto parts store.

The 1033-87 is made to protect your transformer. The 10 amp behind is to protect your lay out wires and engines. They trip fast and then reset when you find the short.

http://www.amazon.com/Bussmann-BP-CB211-10-RP-Circuit-Breaker/dp/B009WQPBYS

[ADCX Rob]

A 10 amp breaker will never pop - the internal 5 amp breaker will always go 1st.

Circuit breakers used with transformers are to protect the transformers(primarily) and wiring(secondarily). They will not protect the trains(or any load on the circuit).

[cwburfle]

Some parts dealers sell a self-resetting 5 amp automotive type circuit breaker as a replacement for 1033 transformers. There is room to put one inside the case.

When replacing a transformer's internal circuit breaker with an after-market part, one must be certain to use the proper sized breaker. This is not a case of one size fits all.

External circuit breakers to suppliment the internal breaker is always a good idea. They must be smaller (have a lower trip point) than the internal breaker, otherwise there is no point. (as Rob wrote) I like to use postwar Lionel #91 adjustable electromagnetic breakers.

If any of your trains have electronics, then TVS (surge protectors) are a good idea too.

[KRM]

ADCX Rob

A 10 amp breaker will never pop - the internal 5 amp breaker will always go 1st.

 

Guess I was not clear Rob,,,,

My 10 amp breakers pop a lot, every time a train runs off the rails. And that happens all the time with a five and two year old at the controls. Never say never.

Tell me where I can find a internal 5 amp breaker on my post war train engines. They don't have them! There is plenty of smaller wire in them and all around most layouts that would smoke with no protection from a large slow acting transformer breaker should something/ anything cause a short. Unless you run 14 gauge wire to everything. That is not needed when you use the 10 amp breaker. Smaller breakers are a must on any layout. IMHO.

So like I said. The 10 amp behind is to protect your lay out wires and engines. They trip fast and then reset when you find the short.

And I agree that if you do have trains with electronics, then TVS (surge protectors) are a good idea. I have them on every lockon. And your right that engines with a internal 5 amp breaker, it will always go 1st.

[ADCX Rob]

A 10 amp breaker will never pop - the internal 5 amp breaker will always go 1st. A 1033 will struggle to put out even 8 amps at full load(it's rated at ~4.5 amps continuous output at 16 volts).

I have no idea where you can find an internal 5 amp breaker on your post war train engines, nor why you would even look for one. If a derailment is causing damage to internal engine wiring with a 1033, there is something else at play here beyond replacing a 5 amp circuit breaker inside the case of a small postwar transformer.