Lion Chief and Transformer Question

[Oldegreybeard]

Merry Christmas.

I have a question.
Can I safely use a Lionel ZW transformer to power my layout being that I use Lion Chief locomotive(s)?
Is it a simple hookup or is there something that I need to wire in to help prevent damage to my trains or should I just go with multiple CW80s? MRC, MTH, or other.
I've been looking around the forum and don't quite understand if it would be a good idea to power my layout with ZW transformer with my Lion Chief Locomotive(s) or not.
I realize the LC won't run conventionally.
I have a 6x10 two train layout 054 outer 042 inner with Ross Switches and Gargraves track.
I have seen several ZW 250 and 275 watt transformers for sale at what looks like reasonable prices. Mid 100-200 for inspected and cleaned or refurbished.
It looks like it would be plenty of power for my layout and would even allow some conventional equipment to be operated if I acquire some. Some include diodes for protection. Protection of the Transformer or the Train.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

P.S. I'm asking on the "other forum" as well.

 

[BigAl 956]

Yes, you can use a traditional ZW or similar transformer to furnish the 18v and sufficient wattage to the track. I reccomend a 5-7 amp circuit breaker in series with the block feeds to protect the layout and locomotive wiring from power shorts.

[ADCX Rob]

BigAl 956

I reccomend a 5-7 amp circuit breaker in series with the block feeds to protect the trains electronics from power surges.

Breakers & fuses are current limiting devices and do not protect from power surges, which are over-voltage situations.

The ZW is perfect just the way it was built for your purpose. If you want to have power districts that trip at less than the 14 amps of the entire ZW, you can place individual breakers for each control handle at the rating you desire.

What is needed is Transient Voltage Suppression.

[Oldegreybeard]

Thanks everyone. I have a rebuilt ZW on the way from the Tinman at Tinman 3 Rail. I also ordered TSV Diodes discussed in depth on another thread within this forum.

https://www.tinman3rail.com/?page_id=261

[BigAl 956]

BigAl 956

I reccomend a 5-7 amp circuit breaker in series with the block feeds to protect the layout and locomotive wiring from power shorts.

My bad, I meant to say, protect from shorts like derailments. The ZW has so much wattage a short can cause a lot of damge to the layout wiring or even internally in a locomotive from the heat. The transformers internal breaker is designed to protect the transformer. An in-series breaker to the track protects the track and locomotive wiring from melt downs.

[Oldegreybeard]

Thread Update. It's been quite a while since this thread. In addition to the TVS Diodes I use 3 amp brakers. Everything including Postwar locomotives are working great. I have found that running the ZW at 11-12 volts instead of 18 lets the Lion Chief locomotives creep along for switchching purposes. I leave it at this setting as it just cut off some of the top speed. One could raise it back to 18 at any time if higher speeds are desired.

[BigAl 956]

Great update Old Grey! Like you, I prefer old things that still work.

One last comment. I found 3A breakers were insufficiend for running dual motor postwar with lighted passenger cars. I had to boost my breaker values to 7A to handle those loads.