Limiting output of Lionel CW80 transformer

[Benjamin Maggi]

I am planning on setting up an inexpensive Lionel train set at a Christmas party tomorrow. It will be using Lionel Fastrax and be powered by a CW80 transformer, and the engine is one of the simple diecast 4-4-2 steam engines. I won't be able to monitor it all the time, and the track will be on a tile floor. I have visions of the engine flying off on the curves (which it can do when the power is fully applied) and sliding along the floor, scraping the paint.

I wondered if there was a common item availalbe from a Radio Shack or Home Depot that I could wire between the track and transformer to limit the maximum output. A resistor or something? It can't be an item that isn't available locally, and wiring up a bulb and socket probably isn't a good idea either.

Any ideas? Thanks.

[riverrailfan]

I would wire the track to the accessories terminals, set the engine to run forward. Hold all three buttons and adjust the throttle to the speed you want, release the buttons and throttle down all the way. It will stay at that set voltage but you won't be able to operate the whistle but you will be able to adjust the throttle and it won't affect the train speed. The only way to stop the train is to unplug the transformer but it will return to the set voltage when plugged back in.

 

 Easiest way with out spending a dime.

[ADCX Rob]

Mount the transformer to the floor of a small wooden box just larger than the CW and positioned toward the back so that the throttle handle is restricted for your desired maximum movement as it hits the back side of the box.

The box doesn't have to have all 4 sides, either, obviously the back must be in place.

[ADCX Rob]

How did the party go?

[Benjamin Maggi]

The train was the hit of the party. I considered purchasing some white quilt "buntting" (whatever the term is!) but instead I just set it up on a very thick rug that I found nearby. That seemed to do the trick!
Thanks!