Lionel Type T Transformer repair advice

[Wythe]

Hello,

We recently received an old Lionel train set that was my wife's father's when he was a boy (1930's).  It has a Type T transformer that needs a new cord (the cloth cord is frayed and falling apart).  I started to take it apart to get to the connections inside to pull through  a new cord and found the entire insides to be coated with a black shiny coating.  I'm thinking it has either gotten very hot sometime in the past or was perhaps coated when it was new to prevent corrosion.  Before I get too deep into it I'd love some input on the possibility of repair and and any advice on instructions or resources.  A quick Google search brought up this website consistently and thus my post.  The train set is labeled "Outfit No. 386 for "Lionel Standard" Track".  Below are a few photos of the transformer.  It seems slightly different than most of the images I found for the Type T Transformer, which all had the plug on the top instead of the side:

Is it cooked or just well preserved?  I'd really like to save it if possible and appreciate any advice or thoughts.

Thanks,

Wythe

[submmbob]

Wythe

I had one similar to yours  w/ my 1930 Lionel #258 set. The innards had rusted out and at some point it got chucked. These transformers are fairly simple electrically. However, the earlier transformers like yours only put out voltages in steps rather than a continuous increase in the voltage. Your train should run fine w/ a newer style transformer and you don't necessarily have to buy a new one. Many folks online sell them serviced. You will find more than you could imagine available on ebay. Some of the folks on the forum who run prewar and standard qauge can give you an idea of what wattage to look for if you want to go this route. Since the transformer is the part that is connected to 110V is best to go carefully here. Your transformer may or may not have a built in circuit breaker which is handy if the train derails or something goes astray.

[Curmudgeon]

I don't remember the model designation, but we have one of those "step" type transformers somewhere.

Same thing, cord bad.

Tar.

They encapsulated the innards with tar.

About 50 years ago, I dug out enough to replace the cord.

Suggestion:

Put it on a shelf for display and buy one that works.

[Wythe]

Thanks to both for the replies and information.  I realized when I went back to the post that I hadn't posted the photos correctly but you both understood the issue.  The tar makes sense as it didn't smell burnt but looks half melted.  I'll likely look for something more up to date to actually make the train go around the track...

[LL675]

agreed, put that transformer on the shelf like i have my T. Plenty of postwar and newer transformers to be found. If you don't have a train shop near you, there are plenty on e bay. just make sure it has been checked. most older ones just need a new cord.