How much power is enough.. New ZW

[Anonymous]

 

   I would like to get some input from my many friends here.

On my new layout, I think I want to go with the new ZW with 4/180 or 190 bricks. I think I will have 4 "hot" tracks for train operation. 

 I would like to run 4 trains at one time on approximately 300 ft of Gargraves track using 2 bricks. Layout will be approximately 14x17.

I would use the other 2 for accessories. If it looks like too much load, I can convert all the structure lights to LED"S.  I have already converted a lot of my passenger cars to LED"S and they look great.

 Do you guys think this would be enough power, for what I want to accomplish.

I have a ZW 275 and a VW 150 both in excellent condition for back up if needed, but I would like to retire them. I also have a few MRC bricks that I used for accessories.

I run mainly TMCC and a few Conventional, so I think I will be ready for the new Legacy controller. I don't want any compatibily issues.

I don't own any MTH Proto 1 or 2.   The couple I have have been converted to TMCC.

Let's hear what you think.

Tim

 

[Anonymous]

This will be of little to no actual help, but it was the first thing that came to mind.

"Rarrr, rurrr, rurrr!  More Power!!"

[laz 57]

HEY PETIM, hows it going?

  Yes I have the new ZW with 4 180 watt blocks for my layout and it works great.  I can run my conventional trains by regulating the power with the Cab1 to all the tracks.  But when you first turn it on Tracks 2-3 will come on full power(18volts) so I usually put TMCC engines on those tracks and if I want to run conventional with Cab 1 keep them on Tr 1 and 4.  I like that because I can run even my starter sets that rarely see run time using the Cab1.  I can blow whistle bell and change direction with it.  As far as power I believe if you get 2 more 180 watt blocks you should have enough power with 720 watts total power for your engines.  I have 2 ZWs,(newer ones) one for engines with all 4 180 blocks and another for all my lights, 3 180 watt blocks.

Good Luck hope this helps.

laz57

[otftch]

You should be fine for track power.You might want to use the other Zw for accessories.I run a Fifteen car passebger train (2 lights per car) and two dual motor engines on one of my 180w bricks and have had no problems.I don't have that much draw on the other tracks but I like to know there is power if I need it.

                                                                                       Ed

[USNRol]

For a power comparison I ran my Christmas layout (8x12) with a 150W PW "V" model and it was a stretch but it ran two trains plus, Block signals (x2), gateman, semiphore.  Trains were PW 2343 F3 w/dual motors and a 2023 ALCo w/single motor lights only in cabeese.

To me, it sounds like you've got GOBS of POWER!!

Roland

[eZAK]

Tim,

You should try to incorporate a BPC (block power controller) in your system.

This way you can have two bricks for ACC and two for Track. With the ones for track you can switch them between your four blocks.

I use the BPC on my layout and it makes it very versital.