Lionel chief and conventional power

[Fisker]

Can you use Lionchief with tubular track?

for conventional systems how much power (Watts) do you need to run a couple of F units, a GG-1 or an EP-5 type engine?

For postwar power supplies, short of paying big bucks for a ZW what would be a good power supply that's step or two above the ones in a starter set?

[ADCX Rob]

Fisker

Can you use Lionchief with tubular track?

Yes.

Fisker

...for conventional systems how much power (Watts) do you need to run a couple of F units, a GG-1 or an EP-5 type engine?

Figure, with consists and overhead, 2.5 amps, or 40 watts, per motor. 1 motor F, 40 watts, 2 motor F & GG1, 80 watts, EP-5 40 watts.

Fisker

For postwar power supplies, short of paying big bucks for a ZW what would be a good power supply that's step or two above the ones in a starter set?

LW one train, SW two train, KW two train.

[Leverettrailfan]

I'd throw in the type Z- I believe they're less sought after than the ZW, but they're rated at 250 watts and give you for variable voltage outputs like a ZW- just no built-in whistle controller. The type V is identical, but rated at only 150 watts.
I have a TW I use a lot, but it's more or less a pair of 1033 transformers inside of one case. One is used to supply voltage for the train, and the other is entirely for the various constant voltage outputs. It's a great transformer for operating accessories! It plays nicely with all my equipment, but it will only operate one train (one variable voltage output).

Hope you find one you're happy with!
-Ellie