Toy train operating and collecting

I just picked up a Lionel 1033 90 Watt Transformer at a local flea market for a train set my family had when I was a kid, I am looking for a copy of the instructions and wondered if anyone has a copy they could email me at no charge. I am anxious to get this set going since it has not run for many years. 

Happy New Year

Thanks in advance

Amy

Amy,

I have scans of the instructions. email me your address if you want it. Click on my username and my email link will be on the bottom.

 

Mike S.

Black handle is train speed controll.I usually use U-A, U-B could be used if a train goes to fast with U-A. U-A 5-16 volts, U-B 0-11 volts  black handle controls the variable voltage.. you can also use C-A 16 volts, C-B 11 volts for accessories, these are fixed voltages the handles do not affect there output.

Welcome Amy there are a lot of great people to answer questions here.

 Jason 

LionelAmy, I've said here many a time I think the 1033 is just about the best transformer Lionel ever made. Certainly for smaller layouts running locos of either modern DC can motor type or of postwar/MPC vintage.

But since you bought the transformer at a flea market, some things concern me for you:

1) How does the over-all condition of the transformer appear? A very clean exterior with no rust on the bottom would tend to indicate (not written in stone though) that the insides are also in good shape. If the bottom has lots of rust, it would be a good idea to take the shell of the transformer off and be sure the bottom insulator piece is in good shape before using it.

Again, if you are uncomfortable with this sort of thing, find a knowledgable train guy or Lionel service center to look it over for you. If you are comfortable with this, check you local library for a Greenburg Repair Manual for Lionel Trains: my library has one, but I also own one. It will help you out some, as far illustrations as to how it is assembled.

2) Does the power cord look in good shape? If it's stiff, brittle or has breaks, replace it immediately. If you yourself have any basic electrical skills and knowledge, you can solder on a replacement cord yourself. Or maybe a friend or relative. Otherwise, take it to someone who knows how to do these things. Many communities have guys around who can repair trains who might not run retail shops... check a local Pennysaver type of newspaper.

3) The most common problem I've had with these transformers bought used, is that the whistle/horn relays don't work and need adjustment, cleaning or repair.

If you are anxious to test the transformer, provided all the above look good, here's the hook-up run down. It might seem confusing, but this is the way Lionel set up the transformer to work:

*Using the A-U voltage posts to the track (with A as the ground to the outside rail) will give you a voltage range of 5-16 volts to the track, with auxiliary power (for track side accessories) of 16 volts using the A-C posts and 5 volts using the A-B posts. The A-U setting is very good for older postwar trains with larger open frame motors.

*Using the B-U voltage posts (with B as the ground to the outside rail) will give you a track voltage range of 0-11 volts: perfect for modern locos with truck mounted DC can motors either by Lionel or K-Line. You can use this for your older postwar trains too, they just won't run as fast and may need the higher voltage of the A-U setting if you run a long heavy train. Using the B-U setting to the track will allow you an auxiliary accessory voltage of 11 volts using the B-C setting.

brianel027,

Good post, but you might also want to remind her to check out the circuit breaker; and/or to add a fuse, and even possibly one of "lionelsoni's" TVS devices, especially if she is going to power modern electronics. 

AMY- look at the name plate and you will see between the post what volts you will get if you use them. also look at the writing at the tip of the right hand handle and you will see which post will control the train speed.