Lionel TW or SW for small layout with modern floor layout?

[FEClionel]

Looking for a compact transformer to run a small Christmas layout that I'm working on. I will be running a polar express and the PWC Virginian FM(8-10 rolling stock) set from last catalog. I was planning on running the Polar Express with the CW transformer it came with and running the accesories and the FM with either a TW or SW transformer. I had KW in the past but sold it on Ebay - I never could never adjust the throttle where the train ran at a consistant speed crazy fast or stall. Any suggestions? Thanks for your help

[willpick]

I'd choose the TW over the SW, as you have more voltage & current available in the TW- roughly 60 watts for the train, and 60 watts for the fixed posts. Don't count out the LW either-- It should be capable of powering one train + accessories.  HTH!

[tjsprague]

- I never could never adjust the throttle where the train ran at a consistant speed crazy fast or stall. Any suggestions? Thanks for your help

That may be due to voltage drops more than the transformer. On my christmas layout I've supplied power to the tracks after about every 4 to 5 track joints. I do need to adjust throttle a little bit because I'm generally running prewar trains that will run faster as they loosen up a bit, but generally it's hands-free operation.

Lots of good tranformers out there going pretty cheap this time of year. You're smart to get this going before the fall rush.

Good luck.

Tim

[FEClionel]

On advise from you guys I picked up a nice low mileage TW on ebay last night - cheap! I'm trying to stock up before the fall rush begins!