mixing transformers

[Anonymous]

I am planning on building my first permanent layout. It will be a combination of American Flyer and Lionel, and I would like to power it with a refurbished ZW transformer I have. I am told that I cannot simply do this because Lionel uses  AC power and AF uses DC. My questions are these. 1. Is this correct?  2. Can I run the power from the transformer through a bridge rectifyer and convert the power to DC?  Thanks

[chuck]

AF uses two rail AC power.  You can use Lionel transformers on AF trains and AF transformers on all but a few Lionel trains (Garden Scale and a couple of low end three rail starter sets from the 80's)

[lionelsoni]

American Flyer used some DC also.  The only one I know of is the 342DC.  (There was also a 342AC.)  Unless you have that one, you probably won't have a problem.

They called the DC power supply an "electronic rectiformer".  You could also use their "directronic" rectifier with a transformer.

[Sturgeon-Phish]

Most American Flyer engines had a "universal motor" which operated on AC or DC.  They did have some DC only (i.e. 332, 342DC ) and the 314 AW would operate AC or DC, but the whistle would work only with AC.  Most accesories could be wired AC or DC with the rectiformer.

Jim 

[ben10ben]

"Most accesories could be wired AC or DC with the rectiformer."

Just don't try that with the talking station. It uses an induction motor that relies on the 60hz. frequency of house current to spin the turntable at the correct speed.