Lionel 1032 Transformer

[Demay]

All, Can anyone provide me some feedback on this 75 watt transformer made in 1948? I have Greenberg's guide so I have a solid idea about what to pay. However, I am not familiar with this transformer and I have no idea about its performance, ease of use, dependability, etc. I only need about 75 watts right now to run one train in conventional mode, and there are a few of these models for sale on eBay. I have no problem paying a fair price based on the guide, but I don't want to buy something that was known to quit after a few hours of use. Thanks, Joe

[lionelsoni]

The 1032 is almost identical to the much-admired 1033.  In fact, since your candidate was made in 1948, it very likely is a 1033 with a 1032 nameplate.  Lionel was short of the 75-watt transformer used in the 1032 and substituted the 90-watt part from the 1033 in most 1948 1032s.

[servoguy]

The last 2 1033s I bought I bought for $5 each. I had to put cords on them. That was all. For a nice one I think a fair price is $10-20. I don't think you can wear them out. Bruce Baker

[Demay]

Lionelsoni and Bruce, Thanks for the information. I offered a fair price but it was not accepted. I am not in a hurry so time is on my side. I see plenty of these floating around so I'm sure I'll get one in no time. The good part is your replies provided me information I did not have and gave me more confidence to look at this model. Regards, Joe

[servoguy]

Joe, The purchases I regret are the ones where I paid too much. IMHO, prices on stuff are lower than they were a year ago, and they are still going down due to the poor economy. At the last swap meet I was at, a guy had a KW for sale for $125. I have purchased 3 KWs recently for $20, $30, and $35. I had to put rollers in one of them and replace the copper oxide rectifier with a diode in all 3 of them and put power cords on them, but these are things I like to do. There is no way I am going to pay $125 for a KW regardless of its condition. I wouldn't pay $125 for a ZW. Like you, I am patient and can wait for a good deal. Bruce Baker