Hello,
I am new to this forum as my son just inherited his grandfather's pre-50's Lionel train set. My first challenge is to get the transformer working. The transformer is made by Lionel and says Type A, 90 watt "Trainmaster". On the top, it has a small knob on the right for controlling train speed and on the left a light socket that says "Overload Indicator". There is a banonet style socket, but no bulb present. The cord is a two prong cord and there are 4 connectors on the cord side of the transformer (3 in a horizontal row and 1 down vertically below the center connector). The 3 in a row have a 8v between the left(A) & center(B) and 6v between center(B) & right(C). There is a 14v bracket between the left(A) & right(C). The connector below these 3 is labeled "U".
After unplugging and letting sit for some time, I opened up the transformer today to see why it was not working. The rivots that hold the wires to the backside of two of the connectors have come loose. I also found that the copper contact that traces an arc across the transformer windings has had the tabs broken off, so it no longer moves when the knob is turned.
I would like to repair this transformer and get it into working order. While I am at it, I think I will also replace the 2-prong plug and change to a grounded system with the ground going to the metal frame. Sorry for the long intro, but my questions are as follows:
1. Does anyone know what model of Lionel transformer this is? I have searched ebay and other on-line places and have not seen one photo that looks like mine.
2. Where could I find a manual for this transformer and how to repair it?
Any help would be appreciated.
First off, unless you are really comfortable with electrical equipment, go to a repair guy. Where are you located? Perhaps go to a swap meet and perhaps the test track guy (there is always one!) can give you a recommendation.
If you are comfortable with electrical repair, you can view a schematic (not printable) at Olsten Toys website, in their library section. Once in the library, click on transformers and look att he list to find your model, Type A. You will get a series of exploded diagrams; not exactly a wiring diagram, but close, as well as identification of part numbers, and their old old prices from the date the scanned schematic was printed. They have made it so that you cannot print it out. They will I think sell you a copy, and mail it to you. Online viewing may be adequote for you.
Regarding the terminal designations, for running trains, a wire from U should be connected to the center rail by a lockon (check which clip engages the center rail) or soldering. A wire between A and the outer rails should give you a variable voltage to the track of probably 0-14 volts. The other designations tell you how many volts you get using these pairs as fixed voltage terminals. Any variable voltage requires the U terminal; that is the one that is connected to the copper contact ( I believe Lionel terminology is the wiper).
But be real careful if you try the repair yourself.
It pains me to say it, but it sounds as if your Lionel Type A transformer is pretty well hashed. If you are on any sort of a deadline, i.e., in time for Christmas, you might be better off getting another transformer. I understand the nostalgia associated with the old transformer, but you can always keep it; display it with "pride of place" near the layout; and perhaps work on it in your own sweet time.
Once the child gets to run his train, you can devote as much time as you want to trying to restore (or get restored) the old Type A. Olsen's "library" is a great site, and they also sell parts, but many parts are no longer readily available.
Were I you, I would post the details of the type of train(s) that are involved with. This forum can be of immense value in getting old the trains properly lubed, trouble-shot, and rehabilitated, as necessary.
.
Here's a link to the Olsen's information--not much:
http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/searchcd31.htm?itm=655
There are 3 secondary windings, all in series. They are AB, 8 volts; BC, 6 volts; and a variable winding, CU, 10 volts. U is meant to be connected to the center rail. If you use A as common, connected to the outside rails, the track voltage will vary from 14 to 24 volts, which is a rather high range. With B as common, it will be 6 to 16 volts, which is probably what you want. With C as common, it is only 0 to 10 volts, which is too low for most locomotives.
Bob Nelson
I recommend that you use only a 2 wire cord for the transformer. I looked at using a 3 wire cord with one of my transformers, and discovered that the core was connected to something, I don't remember what. Anyway, a 3 wire cord would have created a problem. I don't know how common this is.
The Olsen's site is huge. In order to get the most out of it one needs to gain an understanding of how it is organized.
For example, regarding transformers alone, there are several pertinent sections in the Library. First, there is a very important "generic" section labeled "Transformers" which is at the top of a list of specific transformers. Farther down that list is a section regarding the Type A, which is essentially a pre-war design.
There is additional information regarding transformers in sections about circuit breakers, whistles, common-ground circuits, lamps (bulbs) and possibly more.
As I recall, the Type A doesn't have a whistle controller, but such a device needs to be considered if and when one wants to add a basic whistle/horn to the train; and again if one wants a whistle, bell, and perhaps other railroad sounds, that are common on modern toy trains.
servoguy I recommend that you use only a 2 wire cord for the transformer. I looked at using a 3 wire cord with one of my transformers, and discovered that the core was connected to something, I don't remember what. Anyway, a 3 wire cord would have created a problem. I don't know how common this is.
Sometimes the circuit breaker or whistle circuit uses the metal frame of a transformer, so adding a ground wire may short the transformer to ground and interfere with voltage outputs to track or accesssories.
Most new transformers, if like power tools, are double insulated and don't use the third prong or ground wire.
Lee F.
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