Lionel KW Transformer

[ADCX Rob]

It should, if it's a KW... the terminals should be labeled like this:

Use A & U to get your trains running, with a variable 6-20 volts.

[brooklyn]

The transformer does not have the letters abcd etc, on the posts. Thanks

[Stourbridge Lion]

brooklyn - Welcome to trains.com!

[brooklyn]

Hi I also just acquired a Lionel trainmaster KW Transformer and the american flyer train set to go with it. I am completely in the dark as to how to set it up. I would love to get the instructions e-mailed to me if possible. Thanks

[brianel027]

Yes, the KW is underated as it and the 1033 are the only two postwar Lionel transformers that will give you a zero starting voltage.

Spanky's info is correct BUT if you use the C post as your common ground, then you can use C-A or C-B to get 0-14 volts to the track. For the fixed voltages using the C as common, D gives 14 volts fixed and U gives 6 volts fixed.

While most modern transformers give you a zero starting point, they usually go up to 18 volts on the high side. When running basic DC can motored locos with electronic reverse units (or allowing kids to run the trains), I can suggest no better transformers than the KW or the 1033 because of their low starting voltage and limited high side.

[hankcat]

Frank, thank you for the PDF files received all. Also a thank you to all for the kind responses and guidance.  hankcat (Hank)

 

[Cobrabob8]

Lionel KW, a great transformer. I had one as my primary source of power for almost 30 years until a couple of weeks ago when I purchased an MTH Z-4000. My KW was free, all I had to do was get a replacement for one of the speed control handles and both control nobs and an original whistle lever. Then I had the Trading Post Train Shop in Cleveland check it to make sure it was electronically sound. About ten years ago I had to have the power cord replaced because mine became badly cracked.

Cobrabob.

[Berk765]

spankybird

As stated above the ‘U’ is common and should be connected to the outside rails

The ‘A’ and ‘B’ is variable 6-20 volts (to run the trains)
The ‘U’ and ‘D’ is fixed at 20 volts
The ‘U’ and ‘C’ is fixed at 6 volts
The ‘C’ and ‘D’ is fixed at 14 volts

tom

 

Thanks! This thread is helpful to me since im getting one for christmas. If I still screw it up its my fault.

[ChiefEagles]

hankcat

Dear ChiefEagles, if you have scanned the manual for the ZW I would most appreciate

an email copy of it.  I have attempted obtaining one from Lionel without sucess.

Hopefully, hankcat.  Email: [e-mail]

Emailed you copies of 1033, KW and ZW.  Should be able to print from email.  Sorry for the delay, just looked at the topic.  Been on the IL's run most of the Christmas holidays.  Let me know if that did not get through.

[hankcat]

Many thanks for the assist.  hankcat

[bfskinner]

Lionel Type KW transformer: 

See chart: http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/cd/transfmr/ps6.pdf

See entire page: http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/searchcd31.htm?itm=630

See http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/searchcd31.htm?itm=657

[hankcat]

Dear ChiefEagles, if you have scanned the manual for the ZW I would most appreciate

an email copy of it.  I have attempted obtaining one from Lionel without sucess.

Hopefully, hankcat.  Email: [e-mail]

[cnw1995]

Does Lionel's R Transformer work the same way as the KW? I have my notes about the various back terminal combinations but I'm worried about hooking something up the wrong way.

[Anonymous]

jamahosky:
Send me a send me a large Self Addressed Stamped envelope and I'll send you a copy of Lionel's instructions for the KW.
Sent to:
Model Train Journal
P.O. Box 4809
Wayne, NJ 07474-4809

[Back2Trains]

The KW is a great transformer, very underrated among collectors and, I think, very underpriced considering its power. There are, though, a few things to be careful of before placing it in service. First, be sure the line cord and circuit breaker are OK. Then check the contact rollers for the two variable voltage taps. They wear out just like the ones in ZWs and the same replacement parts can be used in both transformers.
One thing to be careful of when you hook it up: both sides of the 14 volt fixed output come from coil taps that are both above (voltage with reference to) the common or U terminal, so neither one can be connected to a common ground on your layout without shorting out part of the transformer secondary. If you use the 14 volt tap for accessories be sure that the accessorys metal base cannot come in contact with anything connected to the U terminal (such as the outside rails of your track).
Hope this helps.
Jim

[ChiefEagles]

Tom has it correct. I have 2 of them. One I jsut bought that was new [yes, new] in the box and has instruction sheet. Shoot me an email and I will scan for you. Then you can print out.

[spankybird]

As stated above the ‘U’ is common and should be connected to the outside rails

The ‘A’ and ‘B’ is variable 6-20 volts (to run the trains)
The ‘U’ and ‘D’ is fixed at 20 volts
The ‘U’ and ‘C’ is fixed at 6 volts
The ‘C’ and ‘D’ is fixed at 14 volts

tom

[Chris F]

Since you already have the Greenberg book, take a look at the section, "Circuits with Common Ground" , which is located just ahead of the transformer listings. The KW is among those showing which terminals are to be used for ground, fixed, and variable outputs. Although terminal U is the most popular ground, terminal C can be used if your locos start too quickly at the minimum 6V you get when terminal U is used.

[dougdagrump]

Contact Lionel customer service, I got a TW real cheap and it didn't have the manual with it. Customer service sent me a repro copy.

[ben10ben]

The outer most terminals should be connected to your track. The top two terminals are the "U" terminals, and are internally connected together. These should be connected to your outer rails. The bottom left terminal is for the left handle, and the bottom right terminal is for the right handle. These should be connected to your center rails. The two center terminals provide fixed voltage, but I have never used it, so can't comment on that.

[Anonymous]

I received a Lionel KW Transformer. I have no instructions on how to use it and how to wire it to the lionel track. I bought the Greenburg's Repair and Operating Manual for Lionel Trains and it does not cover the wiring to the track. On the back panel there are 6 outputs, what do I use? I have 2 tracks.
Thank you,
Justin

If anyone has a instruction manual and could email me a copy, I would be very greatful.