transformer upgrade

[Anonymous]

I am running one train on a 4x8 layout. I have four o gauge remote switches, two uncoupler tracks, and I plan to add a few accessories, such as signals, station, coal dumper, etc. I want to run the switches and uncouplers on fixed voltage. I am using the cw-80 transformer. I was told officially by Lionel that this transformer cannot run switches off fixed voltage and a train at the same. time. I wrote them back and asked if the 36 watt accessory transformer would be an option. Their reply was that this was a low powered transformer and would probably only power two switches and struggle with accessories. They had no specific suggestion for a power source.
I do not want to spend $400 for a new transformer and am reluctant to buy used. I suppose I could buy another cw-80 to power the accessories and use the original to power the train. I could buy a MRC Pure Power (the one that controls one train and has a 14 volt accessory output for about $130. This transformer supposedly would allow me to use Railsounds which is on the set I am using, NYC freight set.
Any comments and suggestions would be helpful. Thanks.[?]

[ChiefEagles]

Go to a train show or hobby shop and buy an used older transformer that works well. Use it for accessories. I've got 4 1033 transformers that I use for that. Either that or invest in a higher wattage transformer and use the CW80 for accessories. I found two older KW transformers for about $100 each and they will run lots of trains and accessories just by them selves.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for that reply. While searching online I came up with an MRC product called the Twin Power Box. It has 60 watts, with two accessory terminals, one at 12 v and the other at 18v. Would this work. I think it is a new product. I also found a new MRC Dual power for about $200

[eZAK]

[e-mail],

If you want new, go with the MRC dual power.
Although I don't own one I heard they are very good.

[lionelsoni]

Radio Shack sells a 3-ampere 12.6-volt transformer (273-1511) for $10.49. They also have a 2-ampere 25.2-volt transformer (273-1512) which you could use for two 2-ampere 12-volt circuits by grounding the center tap, for the same price.