TW transformer, how to test it safely and surely?

[Anonymous]

Nice thing about a Greenburg show is acquisition of a TW Lionel transformer for $40. Now I wonder how do I test it besides pluging it in, putting a load on it, and watching and smelling? Is there a method to verify the integritiy of the coils? I do have a volt and ammeter. I've changed the worn power cord. Saw no internal defects..not that I know what to look for. Thanks for your help.

[ben10ben]

Test it with your volt meter through the entire voltage range. You shouldn't get more than a half a volt over 20 volts.

Test the whistle control by setting your meter to read DC volts, and connecting it to the terminals. Move the whistle control slowly until you just see the meter move. You should be reading 5.5 volts(positive or negative). Continue to move it, and you should get at least .8 volts.

Finally, get an old scredriver, crank up the voltage, and short out two of the terminals. The circuit breaker should open after 7 to 15 seconds.

[willpick]

Since you opened it to replace the power cord, if ther had been damage to the coils, you would have smelt it. The varnish will have a very distincive odor if it was overheated. Ben's advice is sound-- HTH