I am headed to a train show tomorrow and here is what I am looking for: 022 Switches, 167 whistle control, Z transformer, KW transformer, 153 block signals, 3469 coal dump car, 3461 log dump car, standard gauge 222,223, or 210 switches, and O and standard gauge track. All these I need pretty bad for my layout. I only have $200 bucks to spend, I have to think of the best deals at the show. I would be happy if I got a KW and Z transformer then I could call it a day and maybe a 167 whistle control. That should all be about $200 or less, I hope. Anyone been to a show recently that had KW's or Z transformers?? how much they go for at the show? If my memory serves me right, the KW is about $90 and the Z anywhere from $60 to $100. The 3469 and 3461 are roughly $40 to $50 each. The 167 whistle control is about $10 each. 022 switches are about $45 to $55 a pair, boxed with everything. The 153 block signals are roughly $30 each. As for track, have not seen brand new O or standard track at the shows in some time. standard switches are anywhere from $30 to $90 a pair, complete. Let me know if these prices are accurate. Or correct me if you seen different at the shows. I cannot wait til the York, PA. show. It will be great. Then maybe there i can get the rest of the stuff i need. thanks.
Well, if it were me, and it's not, I'd take a lap around the show first before I even got my wallet out on the first item. Nothing on your list looks too rare that it won't be seen again if you miss out while taking that first lap. Haven't been to a show lately shopping for anything on your list, but all your prices seem about right (the Z might be a tad low). I'll agree with you on the idea to try to find the transformers first. The rest of the items are fairly small and lightweight and could be shipped more economically than the transformers.
Just my two cents,
J White
Ouuuu you maka my head hurt. The prices you mention are about as close to accurate as it gets. I would sort out priorities but at the same time look for the best deals. Someone may be there just to unload stuff and you might get stuff dirt cheap. In that case, zap it. Get there when the doors open so you have time to do a circle before dropping cash.
Exactly what I was thinking. The transformers are heavy and are like $25 shipping on ebay. And the Z sells for like $90 + $25 = $115 total on ebay. And the KW is like $60 + $25 = $85 on ebay. I do not want to buy a transformer on ebay because of the high shipping prices and how fragile the transformers are. Cant risk getting them damaged. As for the other things, they are cheaper. The 153 block signals are about $30 on ebay and the shows. 022 switches go for a lot on ebay, almost $75 a pair. At the shows they are $45 to $55 a pair. I could almost get 2 pairs for the price of one pair on ebay. 167 are same on ebay as shows. 3469 and 3461 same as well. But, I really need that Z and KW transformers. I have alot of switches and need that fixed voltage tap to power my 022 switches. And the Z to run all my accessories. I already am using (2) Z's on my layout just for my accessories, but need another one i am sure. I have like 3 to each post, 12 to each Z. thats too much. need to spread it out more. One question...Can I power my switches with 2 seperate KW transformers on fixed taps?? They must share just a common ground, correct?? not a power connection to center rail, just have to share a common ground, outside rail?? thanks.
I am gonna be there at 9:00am sharp when doors open for members only. I will do a quick circle and loop around. Then look for my wallet and get the transformers first, then small things. I hope $200 will get me a KW and Z and a whistle control. thanks.
lionel2One question...Can I power my switches with 2 seperate KW transformers on fixed taps?? They must share just a common ground, correct?? not a power connection to center rail, just have to share a common ground, outside rail?? thanks.
Yes, you can do that. I had a KW years ago but sold it. I remember it had a goofy terminal arrangement with different power ranges of sorts. But if you dedicate them to just switches, I can't see why you would have a problem. My preference would be a Z or two. I just like em better for some reason.
Well, I am back from the show. I picked up a 250 watt Z transformer for $90. Also, I bought a 167 whistle control for $10. So, bottom line is I spent $100 for 2 things I needed pretty bad. They had about 6 KW transformers at the show, anywhere from $90 to $110 and some boxed. They had no standard gauge switches or track worth buying. They had a few 153 block signals, from $25 to $32 each with contactors. Had some 3469 and 3461's there, didnt see the prices on them. Some 022 switches, $45 to $55 each at show. All in all it was a nice show. Many people there that were not members, about 75 people were members of TCA. I tested my Z and all terminals work just fine and buddy of mine tested the volts at show. It read a little bit more than 24 volts for each terminal. Same readings as my other (2) Z transformers. The whistle control, i did not test yet, but I am sure it works just fine. Thanks.
You did good on the Z. Good working original remote control standard gauge switches (if remote is what you're after) are not cheap and not easy to come by. The MTH repros would be my choice. But that's just me. Opinions will vary.
Yes, the automatic 222 and 223 switches is what I am looking for at shows. Too expensive on ebay, almost $120 a pair. Book says $50 to $90 a pair with everything, the controller, lanterns, bulbs, and screw nuts. Guess they are pretty hard to come across, because at the show today I did not see one of them at all. I am sure York will have some. Thanks.
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