Transformer Help

[Anonymous]

I need help selecting a new transformer. I have a 4'x8' O-scale "tabletop" type layout. Current devices are: Lionel NYC starter-set type steam engine/tender, RMT Beep Diesel loco, lighted caboose (1 for each engine), Lionel crossing gate w/ lights (wired to accessory power and operated via insulated track sections), 2 lighted bumpers, 2 O-31 Lionel remote switches, block target signal operated via 153-IR controller wired to accessory power, and I plan to add a rotary beacon and a couple more powered accessories (diesel engine pump station and maybe the Lionel Tower w/ figures that move about). I only run one engine at a time, and park the other on a seperate block-wired siding. Currently running a Lionel BW-80 and figure I am about at the limit of that unit. Don't really want to ante up for a ZW quite yet. Any suggestions greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[johnnyc]

How about another CW-80 , use one for accessories the other for trains . I see about a dozen on e-bay everyday for well under $100.00 . johnnyc.

[ben10ben]

A Lionel postwar LW. It delivers 125 watts, has a whistle control, an excellent lighted dial that changes in intesity according to the throttle setting, and can be had usually for under $60.

The Lionel TW has most of the same features as above, but has 175 watts, and sells for under $80.

And, finally, the KW has two throttles and 190 watts.

[Anonymous]

I second ben's LW. I love LW's and have 3 on my layout. They are the best watt/buck out there. The ZW is over rated and can really only pull two trains not four. I would get a LW and use it on the train only. Use that 80 watter for all the other stuff.

Charlie

[willpick]

The LW,TW or KW are excellent choices for your present setup. If you are going to expand your engine roster with ones that have Railsounds[Lionel/K-Line] or Protosound 2[MTH], I'd reccomend that you buy a K-line Powerchief transformer--- It has a output rating of 120W[the Lionel units are rated by input power] . It also has a bell & horn/whistle buttons to activate the sounds.

[Anonymous]

Lionel power house brute is th old 250 watt Z. I goes to 25 volts on each of 4 different outputs and does wonders for powering 4 different command mainlines.

You can set the max voltage on each main with the dial and you don;t have to mess with phasing different transformers together as it is in phase with itself.
I just happen to have a reconditioned one for sale now.
Check svc trains. dave roxin.

[lionelsoni]

The Z is great--I have 3 of them--but be warned that it doesn't have a whistle control or a reverse button, just those 4 knobs.