Transformer Upgrade

[Anonymous]

I think my Z-750 is done. The breaker switch will not stay in, whether powered or not (maybe switch is broken vs. transformer shot??)

Anyway, if it is broken then I am trying to figure out if I should replace it in kind or upgrade. This transformer, and remote, came with an MTH set 3 years ago. It's locomotive has protosound 2 and I will likely stay with mostly MTH
locos moving forward, maybe DCS at some point but no commitment yet.

same or upgrade suggestions would be greatly appreciated (along with any thoughts on the state of my current transformer).

[bomber]

Miek,

Please read ALL the articles you can on Transformers and Proto Sound Locomotives.
The MTH 750 produces dangerous 20V+ spikes (transients) that can fry voltage regulators and chips in the proto sound boards. I use an MTH Z4000 with a QSI Power Guard protecting my Proto Sound locomotives and every now and then see the red lite flash like a transient voltage is trying to get through.
If I remember correctly, the QSI power Guard costs arouond $79, but is worth every penny. Pull QSIndustries up on their web page. They are a reputable firm.

Good luck

bruce

[willpick]

Mike, from your description,it sounds like the breaker on the transformer is shot. I'd buy another Z-750 or a Z-1000. You could also take a look at Ebay- there are usually Z750's for sale for a reasonable price--

You could also call MTH service and see if they can help you--
And before I forget: Welcome to the forum[:)][:)][:)][8D]

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the suggestions. I wish I knew how the transformer went. Unfortunately, the baby sitter and my son were doing something with it while the train was lying sideways on the track.

Is there a way to know how much track a 750 or 1000 will adequately power vs. a 4000?

[ben10ben]

Power requirements aren't dependent on track, but rather on the trains you're running. Each locomotive draws a certain amount of current, each lighted car a certain amount, and each accesory a certain amount.

A good rule of thumb is 20 watts per motor and 5 watts per lighted car. This means that a two-motored diesel pulling 4 lighted passenger cars would require about 70 watts, and a single motored steam engine pulling the same about 50 watts. These numbers are exagerations, but it's better to have too much than too little.

If you're planning on adding trains any time in the future, a Z-4000 would be best. It has two throttles that can output 190 watts each and 20 watts of accessory ouput.

If you're currently planning on staying the same size or only expanding a little bit, use the above rule to calculate your needs. If you end up needing more than 100 watts, you don't have to stay with MTH. K-line offers a 120 watt transformer, and a company called MRC has a 135 watt transformer that are both excellent choices.

[Anonymous]

ben10ben sure knows his transformers.

[Anonymous]

ben10ben sure knows his transformers. Would you recommend a Lionel KW?

[underworld]

For smaller scales I really like the Tech II......I don't know if they make them for O or larger. It would be worth looking into though.

underworld

[:D][:D][:D][:D][:D]

[eZAK]

Since adding up your total wattage needed can be difficult at times and may result in an incorrect guess, Try This Rule of Thumb;

Figure on about 2 watts (or Volt Amps) per square foot of layout space.

Try it! It works!

Remember, It is always better to have more power than you need,
than it is to have not enough power.

[Anonymous]

Just don't buy an old zw if you are using mth switches, if you have a derailment, the high current from the old unfused zw will fry the boards in the mth switches.