Christmas Layout Wiring Question[s]

[IDM1991]

This year, our family's temporary Yule Tree layout measures approximately 5' x 8' and consists of two loops of Lionel old and new tubular track: a large outer loop and an independent inner loop.  The latter features a double reverse loop through four 042 manual turnouts and a 90-degree crossing.  A very small spur track ending in a 260 bumper "serves" a stable in which is set a small nativity scene.

Initially, I was using our KW transformer to power both lines, via lockon and 14 gauge wire to connect the power supply to jumper wires; three on the outer line, four on the inner line.

A night or two ago, I was doing some reversing through the inner reverse loops with a 2343 F3 locomotive.  After a while, I noticed that power from the left-hand, or "B," throttle of the KW was nonexistent, even with the throttle turned up to its maximum output.  The only way to get the train going again after sitting dead on the track was to press the reverse button several times.

Alas, I recall this happening earlier this year with the same "B" throttle.  I took the transformer to our local train show, where an experienced, retired electrician (who was one of several manning the only O Gauge modular layout at the show) lifted the casing and inspected the unit.  I seem to remember him saying that this phenomenon can happen as a result of engaging the reverse button too much in a short period of time, or something to that effect.

Rather than languish in frustration, I spent this evening re-wiring the Yule Tree layout, transferring control of the inner track from the uncooperative "B" throttle to the flawless "A" throttle, while transferring control of the outer track from the "A" throttle on the KW to an old MPC transformer with a bright orange casing made in Mt. Clemens, Michigan over thirty years ago (I received this transformer last Christmas as part of a set headed by an 8800 4-4-2 locomotive).  The layout now runs fine, and actually more efficiently with two separate transformers controlling the two loops.

Because the inner loop has more track and two power drains (the red 260 illuminated bumper and one lamp on an 042 tunout), I figured that it was wisest to let the 190-watt KW handle that line.  Large locomotives (such as the F3) and longer trains will run on this loop, while the standard oval encircling the edge of the layout space will host tin Marx steamers, and single-motered Lionel locomotives (675 and 622, respectively) from time to time.

I ran a short, four-car freight headed by the 675 along the outer loop earlier this evening, and it ran fine at "50 MPH," or whatever the strange designation is on the orange MPC transformer (which may be a 4651 model or one of the 50 watt units).

Just what is the wattage of this unit, and for how long can I safely operate an older, single-motored postwar locomotive (such as the 675 or the 622) with it?  Does it actually have enough power to operate pre-1970 Lionel trains?

Thank-you,

Ian D. McKechnie, Lindsay, ON, Canada

[Sturgeon-Phish]

I canot give a specific value, but when I had my layout I kept an eye on the amps being drawn for a particular line. I would note the current draw after a few minutes of operation for a base line, then monitor the amps after that, and when I saw an increase of say 20 or 25 amps, I'd let things cool off a bit. The older Marx trains seem to take the heat better than some of the others. Several years ago I ran an AF 300 Alantic for 8 hours pulling 10 cars and it never quit.

Jim

[sir james I]

Those MPC box transformers were pretty rugid. It should operate your tree layout quite well. As with most transformers if it feels really hot shut it down for awhile.

[ADCX Rob]

Sturgeon-Phish

...I would note the current draw after a few minutes of operation for a base line, then monitor the amps after that, and when I saw an increase of say 20 or 25 amps, I'd let things cool off a bit.

Jim

Holy smokes(pardon the pun) that's a lot of train equipment.