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Amer Flyer transformer won't go below 6 volts

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  • Member since
    October 2012
  • From: Birmingham, AL
  • 64 posts
Amer Flyer transformer won't go below 6 volts
Posted by quizshow904 on Sunday, March 9, 2014 12:07 AM
WF-22090

I have an American Flyer 350 wattt tranformer and on both controls I can't get it to go down to zero volts. Is this something I can easily adjust if I take it apart?  It has been rebuilt and is in  real good shape.

Paul

  • Member since
    October 2011
  • 969 posts
Posted by TrainLarry on Sunday, March 9, 2014 12:48 AM

It is normal for your transformer (and most old transformers from different manufacturers) not to go to zero volts, as there was no need to do so. The old open frame AC/DC motors of Gilbert and Lionel did not start until the voltage was about 7-8 volts, so there was no need to go down to zero volts. Today's electronically controlled motors are a different story, so most modern transformers will go down to zero, or  near zero.

Larry

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Austin, TX
  • 10,096 posts
Posted by lionelsoni on Sunday, March 9, 2014 12:45 PM

The transformer is designed to put out a minimum of 5 volts.  To get to zero, move the red handle marked "ON OFF ON" to "OFF".  Why there are two "ON" positions is a mystery--There is no difference between them.

(The 350-watt 22090 that you have is actually two complete 175-watt 22035 transformers in one case.)

Bob Nelson

  • Member since
    March 2010
  • 266 posts
Posted by rrlineman on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 12:11 PM

the on-off-on switch is for the circuit breaker lever for 2 step e-units. like the red circuit breaker reset button on 12B transfomers .

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