Soo Line fan Michael, To help you decide on a replacement pack, MRC has a handy comparison chart here at bottom of the page: http://www.modelrectifier.com/train-controls/dc-power.asp Note the various VA values between packs within the same series. Basically the higher the VA, the higher the cost. Some added features such as momentum and braking are added on some packs. Others use dual throttles. Even the lowest (numerical) 200 series pack, the Tech 4 200 is double in VA and amps over your recently departed 1300.
Michael,
To help you decide on a replacement pack, MRC has a handy comparison chart here at bottom of the page:
http://www.modelrectifier.com/train-controls/dc-power.asp
Note the various VA values between packs within the same series. Basically the higher the VA, the higher the cost.
Some added features such as momentum and braking are added on some packs. Others use dual throttles.
Even the lowest (numerical) 200 series pack, the Tech 4 200 is double in VA and amps over your recently departed 1300.
That's a handy guide for comparison. I'll probably end up going with the TECH4 260 as I have had several people now tell me how well it works for them. I haven't heard anything about the TECH 6 packs. Is there something wrong with them or is it just that people are converting to DCC instead?
Thanks to everyone for all of the info.
Michael
Never attempt anything you don't want to explain to the EMT
Glad the OP got a replacement PAK, best of luck..
I do not wish any Power Pack issues on anyone...I had this unit since I started 'thinking of trains' in 2KY, -it is my only DC pak.DCC is handled by a 5amp NCE.
It is my MRC PowerPack, i added Volt & Ampmeter's to the track side.Following J.Hedigers article, the cheap Ampmeter (my fault) is not sensitive enough, but does sense a lot, it helped me quite a few times, so to me: it don't need to be pricey, to be decisive.. (common sense helps)...Approx 2Ky0ish, possibly a Tech II (2)... Has been a real solid, reliable Unit! She will haul right now!!
Michael6792 ....haven't heard anything about the TECH 6 packs. Is there something wrong with them or is it just that people are converting to DCC instead?
....haven't heard anything about the TECH 6 packs. Is there something wrong with them or is it just that people are converting to DCC instead?
The Tech 6 is a "crossover" - allows one to operate in DC mode or DCC mode, depending on locomotive and operator preference. In DC mode, the Tech 6 is a nice power pack with available handheld and decent feature set. In DCC mode, the Tech 6 allows full control of sound and other DCC features, and operates as a DCC throttle (6 locomotive address capacity). It's pretty useful for those who have engines of both persuasions and a layout already wired for DC.
my thoughts and experiences, your choices
Fred W