which transformer to use?

[fwright]

There is nothing wrong with a ZW (or possibly KW) for your approach. It will power everything on your 4x8 at the same time. The ZW has 4 separate variable circuits.

I would still recommend powering the overhead separately, no matter which direction you go.

The problem with the KW - I know, I own one - is that it has only has 2 variable voltage posts, and if those are set to the higher range for heavier post war locomotives, the fixed voltage accessory voltage gets closer to 20 volts - too high.

When I built my present 4x8, ZW prices were well over $250, and 1033s could generally be had for $60-$75. Multiple 1033s provided about the same flexibility and made better economic sense then. But if you can get a decent ZW for $150 as some earlier posters claimed, and I've seen most 1033s in the $40-$50 range recently, the better value proposition is in the beholder's eye.

Either direction works well and looks impressive - pick what suits you.

yours in transforming
Fred Wright

[Anonymous]

Thanks guys for all the suggestions. Sounds like I will probably go with several moderate sized transformers rather that a larger single type. Then probably get a single one for the additional accessory lights. Just wasn't sure if this was a bigger pain say a single ZW. Thanks.
Larry

[fwright]

I prefer the other route, a transformer for each train.

On the 4x8, a 1033 will run any train that reasonably fits on the layout. I would put one or two lights on it just to load is slightly. The output voltage will be more stable.

I would use another transformer, 1033 (90 watts) or slightly bigger - LW, an older R without a whistle controller is perfect - for lights, switches, and accessories. Again, the amount of stuff on a 4x8 is highly unlikely to overwhelm. You generally don't use more than 1 or 2 train-connected operating accessories at a time - loaders, unloaders, etc. - but the lights and oil pumps stay on full-time.

Finally, a train set transformer - 45 watts - is plenty for the trolley.

The loop around the ceiling should have its own transformer, sized to reflect the train. If you are running a long, lighted passenger train with twin F3s, then a 1033 won't cut it. You'll need something bigger.

More important on the ceiling loop is getting enough feeders to the far side and elsewhere to prevent the voltage drops in the track from affecting train performance. Even the 4x8 loop should be fed in at least 2 locations, 3 is probably ideal.

my 2 cents, but it's your layout.

yours in transforming
Fred Wright

[Anonymous]

Larry:

I only have room for a small layout, so have held-off on buying a large transformer (I'll likely go for the Z4000) until I have space for a larger pike. In the meantime, I make use of the Z750 and Z1000 transformers from MTH that I have sitting around here (they came with starter sets), along with about a dozen or more similarly small transformers that I've accumulated over the years. I only make use of three transformers at the present time: A Z750 to operate one loop; another Z750 to operate a second loop, and an old Lionel 1033 to power lights and accessories. Works fine for me, and leaves me with $ available for other stuff since a large transformer at this point would be overkill.

[Anonymous]

You usually can pick up a reconditioned postwar ZW for about $150.
Although the pw ZW's input is rated at 275 watts the net output is only about 180-190 watts or 10 amps. This is comparable in output to a single throttle on a Z-4k, or Celebration ZW throtle with a 10amp PoHo.

[winrose46]

It really does not matter and if you decide to get a small one you can always get a larger one if your power requirements force you to upgrade to a larger one later. I use all my transformers from Z400s, ZWs to the small 7H20s.

[Anonymous]

This also depends on what type of person you are and If you can limit yourself to just that small layout, but be careful! Once the bug got me it was all over. I struggled with the same situation but then just bit the bullet and got a Z4000, probably overkill for my needs now and I could have spent the money on something more "fun". On the other hand my power needs are well taken care of for almost anything I can build in my limited space.
If your already thinking of bigger or more loops now then don't skimp on the power.

[mpzpw3]

I personally prefer a seperate transformer for every loop. That being said, for a 4-by-8 layout I might consider a postwar ZW. It should give enough power for 2 loops, and a couple of lights. A lot depends on what you are running, or are going to run. Postwar engines and passenger cars can eat up a lot of watts real fast. My layout uses a seperate transformer for each of the 3 loops, a transformer just for lights, and 3 more small transformers to operating accessories, because I prefer using variable voltage to operate the accessories. Picking a power source is really difficult because you don't really know what you will aquire in the future, and they are not very glamourous items to buy compared to engines and rolling stock. Remember, you always want room for growth (ie: more power), but budget does come into play, and you can alway add more transformers in the future. It sounds like a ZW or KW should suit you with a little room for growth.

[Anonymous]

Still looking and still lovin all the great stuff I'm learning her on the forum, but I have a transformer question. If running a small layout on say 4 X 8, running one train and possibly say a self reversing trolley, then with all the lights and accessories, etc., which would be an suitable transformer? Now what if I run that and then another loop around the ceiling? Am I better off with individual transformers for each train or a single larger transformer? Thanks for the help.

Larry