It's not as simple as just comparing the power ratings of transformers. The output voltage is also important. If the transformer can't put out the voltage that the locomotive is designed for, it doesn't matter if it's rated for a kilowatt--the locomotive's not going to run.
I find that older locomotives were designed for higher voltage. I have a couple of 773s that will hardly move for anything less than a type Z's 24 volts. You need a transformer that puts out enough voltage to get the locomotive moving at a reasonable speed, that is, which unfortunately varies among models even from the same manufacturer. Then you need a transformer that can put out enough current so as not to trip its circuit breaker. That varies among transformers, locomotives, and trains.
(My post was meant to support your desire to run a double-header with 2023s.)
Bob Nelson
thnks Bob. But my question is will you notice a difference in performance between different locos--should the 736's need more power than a turbine? What happens when you put on a dual motored loco with the growler motors used in 2343's as compared to a lashup of 2-2023's. On an RW which is a lower wattage unit, will there be a marked difference from a 175 watt kw or the 275watt zw?
I have two 2023s pulling a train of a dozen small (2400-type) streamliners and two express cars.
My locomotives are wired together, but you can also use a pair of 3-pin connectors to connect the two units' motors in parallel. There is no need to disconnect an e-unit. Just cycle one unit into neutral and then shut off its e-unit. This will open all the connections between motor and e-unit.
Lionel rated their e-units for 4 motors.
Keep in mind some transformers have terminals that have different power ranges. A low range and high range. I have 2. 1033 power supplies. One does accessories. The other track. I run two geeps or two switchers off that small pack. Along with either my trainmaster or the one f unit. Both of which are dual motor. You shouldnt have any problem running a loco and passenger cars on one unit.
None of the postwar was designed to pull many cars. It was a big thing to have a loco that can pull more than 5 cars.
Being how old the 736 is, it probably needs to be overhauled and thoroughly cleaned. That will make a difference.
Lionel has two locomotives with two motors. The one run of F units and the trainmaster. They have both motors wired to a single e unit. So it is concievable to do such with the 2023. I am curious as to why you would do that.
I never bench tested wattage. Not sure where to find it. I can say it probably varies greatly with how well the motor and components have been cleaned and maintained. Lionel only has two or three motor types.
A pessimist sees a dark tunnel
An optimist sees the light at the end of the tunnel
A realist sees a frieght train
An engineer sees three idiots standing on the tracks stairing blankly in space
Should an RW be ok for a berk, with 2-3 lit passenger cars? All other draw is on other transformers (switch motors,and lights, 153's, etc). My turbine seems to run better (faster) at same throttle setting on A/U combination. I have 2 of the 736 units, and neither pulls as well as the turbine.
How does a 2343 compare?
Latsly--how about 2 powered 2023's wiresd with one e-unit controlling both?
Where can i find a list of wattage requiremnts for the motors?
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