This may sound like a rediculous question, but what is the difference between the Lionel, and HO train transformers? Can I use an HO transformer for a small 027 setup layout OR lionel "accessories"? New to Lionel... so this is why I am asking.
Jim
Lionel transformers (with some rare exceptions) generally put out AC, while HO power supplies put out DC.
The HO voltage is steady and can be varied between 0 and 12 volts. Its polarity is reversed to reverse the train.
The Lionel transformer's voltage alternates its polarity through 60 complete cycles each second and can be varied between something like 6 to 18 volts. The Lionel train is turned off and then back on to change its direction.
Most Lionel trains and accessories will also run on DC, although the whistle or horn, if any, will blow continuously. They may not move very fast on 12 volts, however.
Bob Nelson
Lionel 027 is AC and HO transformers are DC (except for Marklin HO which is AC) . Some HO tranformers have fixed voltage AC out for accessories.
Enjoy
Paul
JimM wrote: Can I use an HO transformer for a small 027 setup layout OR lionel "accessories"?
Can I use an HO transformer for a small 027 setup layout OR lionel "accessories"?
NO!
Thanks for the replies and the explanations too. I already have a small setup running the Lionel 242 train on 027 track, and I am using a transformer from (I think) a "Scout" set. (I don't know the part number for it, but it only has two nuts for the wires to the track) NO, I didn't try to use an HO one, but I there was an HO transformer in the same box as the Lionel track that was given to me.... and I just wondered. I didn't realize that the Lionels were AC and HO were DC.
You still may be able to use that HO one for lights in buildings some day !!
Thanks, John
As mentioned, keep the HO transformer for accessories and lights. When you get more experience, you will find some uses for it. Perhaps LED lights or some accessories that are not directly hooked up to the rails.
Dennis
TCA#09-63805
HO is DC voltage
Lionel is AC. The "signal" to get the older whistle tenders to operate was a DC source sent thru the rail.
Not compatible I believe..but it's an educated guess..
LOL, I just remember taking the Lionel diesel shanty (it was a shanty that made engine noise) and trying to connect it to the track..my "theory" was that increasing the voltage increased the revving noise..I ended up blowing up a capacitor or something and making me go deaf for an hour
Most (but not all) O-gauge Lionel runs on AC. Traditional Lionel trains have universal motors, which ran fine on DC too. In fact, in the early days, DC was often all that was available, either from batteries or from the Edison company. In recent years, permanent-magnet DC motors ("can motors") have become commonplace, but with rectifiers so that they can also run on either AC or DC. The usual obstacle to modern DC operation, as we have noted, is the whistle or horn, and now the bell, which are activated by some DC superimposed on the usual AC, and must be done without when DC is used. Lionel has made some O-gauge trains that operate only on DC.
Most (but not all) HO runs only on DC. Maerklin is the exception in this and in having a third rail (albeit in the form of punktkontakten).
Our community is FREE to join. To participate you must either login or register for an account.
Get the Classic Toy Trains newsletter delivered to your inbox twice a month