Transformer Suggestion?

[Anonymous]

I don't know what type of transformer I need for what I run. I have a new Lionel 2343 engine with the rail sounds, and no other accessories. This is a train I am just piecing together and doesn't get run that often. I am currently using an old transformer that doesn't have enough power for the sounds. I don't need anything expensive but all the comments on the CW80 make me feel that I shouldn't buy that transformer. Any suggestions on a transformer that will be strong enough to pull 8 or so cars plus the railsounds?
Thanks,
Jeff

[brianel027]

There are certainly lots of transformers being made today, though many swear by the old postwar Lionel favorites. When you say you are using an old transformer, I would guess it is probably one of the smaller "cubes" that came with train sets and could be anywhere from 35-50 watts maximum power.

I'm sure others will make their suggestions, but for the money, you can't go wrong with the old Lionel standby, the 90 watt 1033. It has 2 adjustable voltage settings: the A-U aand B-U setting. The first puts 6-18 volts to the track and the second delievers 0-11 volts to the track. This is a versatile transformer that is excellent for smaller layouts and for running different types of engines: those with postwar/current AC open frame motors and those with verticle or truck mounted DC can motors.

When people complain that their DC can motored locos run too fast with jack rabbit starting (such as the K-Line MP-15), I always know they are using a transformer such as the ZW or TW. The B-U setting on the 1033 will run these engines very nicely and even better that the new PowerChief 120 volt K-Line Transformer.