MTH Z-1000 transformer help

[stratmastersteve]

So I have made the plunge and switched to an MTH transformer instead of using a Lionel transformer. I have accumulated quite a few steam and diesel MTH locomotives with proto sound over the last few months and can’t really use them to the full extent since Lionel transformers do not have a seperate bell and whistle button. (I also really like the style of the MTH controller.)

 

With that said I tried to hook up the Z1000 to my setup and wired my 042 switch tracks directly to the 14V spot for accessories on the transformer brick. The problem I am running into is this is also feeding power to all of the track and causing my locomotives to run even with the MTH controller turned to the “off” position. Does anyone have any helpful advice please? I was really excited about this transformer and hope I can figure out what is going on.

 

Regards,

 

Steve 

[wrmcclellan]

Hi Steve,

We need you to clarify which switch you are talking about.

Is this the 027 gauge 42"in radius switch? Here is the manual.

https://www.lionelsupport.com/media/servicedocuments/70-5167-250.pdf

If so did you modify it for constant voltage operation per the manual?

It sounds like your connection to the switch is applying the 14 vac to the track and thus the reason for constant voltage to the track.

BTW - I do not think this is a problem with your Z-1000. I believe it has to do with how it is hooked up to your layout.

[stratmastersteve]

It is the 022 automatic non derailment remote controlled switch tracks, that was my mistake, I did not mean 042. 

Thanks for the help I will make sure it is hooked up correctly. I purchased it brand new so I have to agree that it's probably not the transformer itself, just operator error, haha.

[wrmcclellan]

Thanks Steve.

Make sure the constant voltage plugs to the 022's is deflecting the internal "spring"that contacts the pin that the constant voltage plug goes onto. You will need to remove the switch motor (solenoids) cover to see this.

Sometimes this spring gets bent, so it it still contacting the pin, and even though the constant voltage plug is fully inserted it is not isolating the internals from track voltage, and thus the 14 vac is also powering the track.

[wrmcclellan]

This link at Olsen's has the electrical diagram.

http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/cd/swt/stc022a.pdf

Note the "booster pin". you can see the small electrical "spring" (elbow shape) contacting the booster pin. The elbow is pushed aside by the constant (oops, "fixed" voltage plug!) voltage plug to isolate the coils from track voltage.

http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/cd/swt/stc022c.pdf

 

[ADCX Rob]

stratmastersteve

...wired my 042 switch tracks directly to the 14V spot for accessories on the transformer brick. 

Did you use two wires or just one? You didn't give enough information.

Also, if you still have the Lionel transformer, use that to power the switches and accessories & use the MTH just for train control.

[stratmastersteve]

Thanks for all the help I ended up tracing the problem to the wires being hooked up wrong on one of the lock ons and I think it was conflicting with the Z-1000 accessory connection. I am good to go! Using the Z-1000 for track power and accessry power with no problems now :)