How to connect Lionel 1033 transformer?

[Anonymous]

First, forgive my ignorance - I've only been doing this a short time. I just bought a second transformer, a Lionel Multicontrol 1033. I don't know how to connect it but I remember that the gentlemen who sold me my original MTH transformer told me that I had to connect it correctly or risk "frying" the electronics of the locomotive.

So, the 1033 has four terminals, I'm guessing two for each control (one for speed the other for direction and the whistle).

If anyone can provide guidance I'd greatly appreciate it.

[lionelsoni]

For running the train and blowing the whistle, you need to use only two terminals. If you want a low-voltage range, use B and U. If your train needs more voltage, use A and U instead. I can't imagine how you would hook it up to "fry" your locomotive.

Perhaps he was referring to how you would use it along with your other transformer. Take a look at this current topic for some advice about that:
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=46741

[Anonymous]

Thanks lionelsoni!

I've got it up and running. I first tried the low voltage connection and everything worked, including the direction and whistle, but the engine wasn't getting enough juice. I switched to the A and U connections and the train gets enough juice and the direction switch works but not the whistle.

[lionelsoni]

Postwar locomotives don't care about the polarity of the whistle signal, but modern ones do. If you have a modern locomotive, try reversing the two wires and see if that fixes it.

[Anonymous]

Reversing the wires worked - thanks Bob.