Transformer Help

[tex702]

I have a fairly large layout that consists of five 4x8 sheets of plywood.  On 1 1/2 sheets of plywood I am constructing my train yard.  The rest of the plywood is the home of my mainline.  Right now I am using a CW-80 Transformer to power this layout.  Needless to say, and I knew this was going to happen, when I put the mainline and the train yard on line it overloads the transformer.  The green light begins flashing.  The one train will still run but the transformer is overloaded.  I also have four remote Fastrack switches being powered by this transfomer. If I disconnect the train yard track from the transfomer the light stops flashing.  I want a ZW because I will be adding more trains later.  Right now a ZW is out of my financial reach.  Recommendations for a cheaper transformer and where they can be purchased would be greatly appreciated.  It needs to be able to power both the mainline and the train yard.  Thanks in advance.    Greg

[Roger Bielen]

Greg, its not how much track you have connected its what is on the track that is drawing power that determins transformer need.  When not being operated the switchs only draw enough power for the LED indicator lamp, a miniscule amount.  With the CW-80 you could get away with running an engine with a passenger consist, ala Polar Express, and maybe a second engine.  Since you say that the problem occures when you turn on both lines the first thing to do is check for a short.  Check that the drops from the tracks are connected properly, don't trust the colors as they are delivered. 

A gerneral rule of thumb for transformers is about $1.00 per watt.

[dwiemer]

Greg,  I know that new transformers can be a big chunk of change, but as in most of the quality that was put into the Post War trains, it went into many transformers as well.  You can get a KW which is 190W for less than $50.  Typically, you will have to replace the cord and rollers, and perhaps a few other items, all for less than $15.  So, with an investment of about $65, you can have a very good, and powerful transformer.  Also, you should have fast blow fuses or circuit breakers and a TPC to protect modern electronics/boards.

     I got my KW with a #450 signal bridge for $24.  With the rebuild I did, it was still less than $40.  So deals can be had and you will be in business.  I do plan on buying a modern ZW with power blocks as I am putting in TMCC, but I will also keep my old ZW, KW, and several other models.

Dennis

[phillyreading]

Greg,

You will most likely need a larger transformer. A Lionel post war Z or ZW will work great or an American Flyer transformer as A.F. is also A.C. powered.  To get a bargain and a working unit go to a train show and buy one, test it first then buy it.  A word about "ebay"  'BUYER BEWARE!!!

Future expansion will be easier with a larger transformer, maybe use a smaller transformer for accessories.

For me a new ZW is out of financial reach! Depending on the power bricks that go with it you can spend over $400.00 on a new ZW, if you want a power brick for each handle or output you can spend closer to $600.00.

Lee F.