lionel kw transformer problem

[ogaryd]

hello, I just replaced the power cord on a kw transformer and it only puts out 0-20 volts ac, no dc voltage, does anyone have an idea what may be wrong? I didnt test voltage before replacing the cord or use this transformer before, thanks gary

[Juniatha]

Well , if I may dare a blindfold guestimate :

it doesn't look like it's the cord ...

Might help to offer more details about the transformer ?

Good luck !

=  J =

[Seayakbill]

Was the KW working A-OK before replacing the cord ?

As J stated, just replacing the cord would not interfer with the other internal power connectors.

[jwse30]

Welcome to the forum! As this was your first post, you may be new to Lionel trains. If that's the case, you may not realize that these trains run on AC voltage, not DC. The only DC you should find in that KW would be off the whistle controller(s).

I've never studied my KW's whistle circuit, but it likely has a disc rectifier that could be replaced with something a bit more modern if it isn't working. I'm hoping someone a bit more familiar with the unit will chime in with more specifics. I don't use my KW to power trains, therefore I've never tried the whistle controller.

 

Hope this helps,

 

J White

 

[gunrunnerjohn]

I have replaced the selenium rectifier in a number of transformers with diodes, including a KW.  However, as others have said, the power cord has nothing to do with any DC, as that is only active when you activate the whistle.

You might benefit from the maintenance manual for the KW: http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/searchcd31.htm?itm=657

NOTE: The Olsen site is currently down, which is a common occurrence on weekends, it'll most likely be back up tomorrow.  This happens about 25% of the time on weekends.

[servoguy]

When you had the case off of the KW, did you check the rollers for proper operation?  The rollers wear out due to use, and the arms that carry them can become quite distorted due to heat.  The power from the A and B controls goes through the whistle control, and if the switches in the whistle control are dirty, you may end up with no power on the output of the transformer.  The copper oxide rectifier used in the whistle control is not working, the transformer will still work but the whistle control will not.

How did you test the transformer?

[ogaryd]

I wanted to thank everyone for their help. I 've got the transformer running and even ran some of my wall hangers on it.  Gary