transformer

[Anonymous]

I read all the responses to the earlier posting about which transformer to use....I have seen alot of OLD Lionel Z-250 trainmaster transformers on E-Bay lately selling in the $50 - $60 dollar range....your thoughts on these.....thx.....tom.

[ben10ben]

With transformers, you usually get what you pay for. Most people buying a ZW off of Ebay know a good one when they see it, and will pay top dollar for it. If an item in a hot category is priced low and getting few bids, there's usually a reason why.

There's a good chance that you'll be looking at a good amount of repair work if you buy a cheap one.

[Chris F]

Tom,

I'm guessing you're referring to Lionel's Type Z transformer, rated at 250 Watts and made from 1939-42, and from 1945-47. 2005 Greenberg values for the postwar Z are $80 (good) and $155 (exc).

Type Z transformers lack whistle and direction buttons, but offer higher Voltage than most other transformers (especially useful when running prewar trains). The are very rugged and well-built (IMO, the diecast internal frame is a work of art). That said, I would be reluctant to buy any 60-year-old power supply on eBay unless I knew that it had been properly reconditioned. I bought my Z at a train show from a dealer that specializes in transformer reconditioning.

[lionelsoni]

The Z (and its relatives, the V and R) is also valuable for running the scale Hudson, which seems to have inherited the prewar appetite for higher voltage. I had modified a Z for 16 volts, by disconnecting the fixed winding. But watching a train barely crawl around the layout was an exercise in frustration after I got my 773; so I put it back.

[eZAK]

Don't forget to check the shipping charges on a hefty item like a ZW!

[FJ and G]

OGR's Barrett had an excellent article a year or so ago reg. the sine-wave patterns and stuff in the older transformers. Without going into all of the details, it convinced me to use modern power. If you are 100% conventional, however, it might be worthy the buy.