AMerican Flyer 30B Transformer Question

[timcoe]

Recently acquired a 30B transformer. When either throttle is in the off position it still produces a a few volts of output. Enough that I cannot reverse the locomotive (utilizing the E Unit). Going forward then stopping to reverse then turning on again the E Unit buzzes. The only way to completely kill power is to lift the dead man control up. Is this normal? Is there something that needs to be adjusted or replaced?  I never had this transformer as a kid only the small transformer that came with the set. (always dreamed about it!) Sorry for the newbieness of this question. I am rediscovering my old AF trains from my boyhood days and trying to get them back to the state they were in back in the 50's.

Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Tim

[lionelsoni]

That's the way it's supposed to work.  I suppose you could put some insulation on the very bottom end of the secondary winding if you want it to work like a Lionel.

I bought a 30B and used it for a while, but could never get used to lifting the handle and the fact that the two controls worked in opposite directions.  So I replaced it with a Lionel Z like my other main transformer.

[Sturgeon-Phish]

Tim - the 30B is a great transformer.  If memory serves me cranked all the way down it still delivers about 8 volts.  Lifting the handle is the way to work the e unit.  I do agree with Bob, the reverse acting controls do take some getting used to.

Jim

[timcoe]

 Bob....

Thanks for the reply. I kind of thought that was the way it was supposed to be. I will use it as it was designed by AF. 

Take care...

 

Tim

[timcoe]

 Jim....

Thanks for your reply. Trying to be a purist (using all AF gear) here and setting up the trains as they were back when my grandfather gave them to me at the age of 2. So I will get used to the "quirkyness" (?)  of the 30B.

Take care...

 Tim 

[Timboy]