This is my first post after lurking for a couple of years. I have a small 3X7 toy train layout using traditional tube track and running mostly post war locomotives and modern Lionel 442 steamer. What would be a better transformer to use on a layout like this which will probably never get bigger. My LHS has a 1033 for about $60 and a MTH Z-750 for around $80. What would be the better choice? Thanks in advance.
It depends on a few more factors. How many loops of track do you have, or total trackage? How many switches? Do you have any accessories that will require power? What about lighting for your buildings? I think the keyword is expansion. If you have any plans for adding anything, you should try to prepare. Even if you are not going to add track, you may have other power needs.
That being said, I am not familiar with the Z-750, but I can tell you the Lionel 1033 is a fantastic transformer, but is limited with power and you can quickly outgrow it. Though, I do think that $60. is a bit high. It can be had for under $20.00 on auction with common frequency. I would be more likely to go for either a refurbished KW, or perhaps a new MRC dual power. The only problem with a MRC could be the whistle/horn activation, but if you don’t need this, or if you want you can get a separate button.
Welcome to the forum and please be sure to ask any questions. Also, if you answer the above questions, we can try to stear you in the right direction. There are several options that will work for you, but we all have our biases, so keep that in mind when you get replies.
Regards,
Dennis
I have a single loop of track with two manual turnouts all O-31. There are two signals connected by lionel lockons. I’m running post war 671, 2026, 1990’s X1110 442 steamer and an MTH loco-sound F3rom about 6-7 years ago. I had a R transformer but got rid of it and need to replace. As I said in my OP I probably won’t be expanding on this (except for scenery and buildings). The new transformer would also be used for a yearly Christmas layout under the tree.
Again thanks for any help
Are you specifically trying to support your LHS, or would you consider mail order?
Is there a budget you are trying to stay within?
Chris
If your layout is not growing, why do you want a new one? That will affect our answer.
Jim H
Since you’re running mostly postwar and one of the more basic contemporary locomotives, and have a small layout, either transformer should serve you well.
If you decide on a 1033, it would be a good idea to buy one that has been reconditioned by someone who knows what he’s doing. A new power cord, for example, is almost a “must” because those old, original cords can become brittle and pose a definite hazard.
If you think that you may eventually buy more of the contemporary motive power, the Z750 would be a good choice because it has built-in horn and bell buttons. You may like having that feature available. I have several Z750s (as well as a couple of 1033s) and like both transformers. I do tend to use the Z750s more often, though, because I do make use of whistles and bells on some occasions. All of my motive power is of more recent vintage.
I had an R transformer but since it had no whistle button I sold it and now need something to replace it. I prefer to support my LHS and also I like to be able to see and hold what I’m buying. I really don’t like to shop mail order if I can help it. Also I’m trying to keep the purchase below $100 as money is a little tight right now.
Good to know!
Both the 1033 and the Z-750 have roughly the same useable wattage - 50 watts.
1033’s in near mint condition (some with original boxes and manuals), or fully refurbished and extremely clean with new posts, levers, chords, etc. go for about $60 on e-Bay.
The Z-750 (unless I’m missing something obvious) doesn’t appear to have accessory outputs. You do get individual bell and whistle buttons.
The 1033 has a wonderful arrangement of posts for accessories, but does not give you individual bell and horn/whistle buttons. You can always add a bell button.
The binding posts for accessories would let you add lights to buildings even if you don’t expand your layout.
Chris
Another thing to keep in mind is that the 1033 produces a pure sine wave. The Z-750 doesn’t. Transformers that produce a pure sine wave run trains a lot more smoothly, in my experience.
- Clint
Unless you’re going to put a lot of lighted scenery and accessories on that layout, I think a 1033 can handle a few of them, one train, and a couple of switches. (The length of the track doesn’t matter.) The 1033 has an excellent reputation for reliability.
When it comes to all things electrical, Bob (Lionelsoni) is the goods. He has forgotten more than most of us will ever know about electromagnetics.
Just to clarify, however, the Z 750 is 75 watts (not 50). It does not have an accessory port. Despite the power output, the Z controllers have a very nice throttle handle that allows for very smooth operation.
Given your price constraints, you may also want to look at a refurbished Lionel TW. This is one of my favorite transformers. It has one lever for track power, another lever for direction/whistle activation and it has accessory ports. I was able to get a refurbished one on Ebay for $70.00. One downside is that it does not have a button for bell activation, but you could always add one later.
Good luck,
John O
Thanks for catching my mistake John. I read the MTH catalog wrong since they combined the descriptions of the Z-500 and Z-750 into one description.
Chris
When I want the bell and whistle function I go for the Z-750. It has modern circuit breakers and runs all my trains fine. As an additional thing, I have one of the MTH infared lockons so I can run the Z-750 remotely. However, the infared lockon is not the most reliable component.
If I need additional accessory power I add a cheap 40W K-line transformer.
Jim H
Power is one of the most important things for your layout. I know price is always a consideration but I would seriously consider a MTH Z-1000. The breaker is a nice feature. The Z-1000 has a separate accessory hook up and if you ever decide to expand, it is nice to have something larger. Wait a month or two and save up. You will not regret your investment.
My LHS has a 1033 being refurbished that I was going to get early next week but I noticed they had an LW transformer w/box for $80. Is this a good deal and is this unit as reliable as the 1033? If it is maybe I’ll go for this. Thanks again
The LW is the next step up in power-- input rated at 125W, output about 100W. It is as reliable as a 1033, has the accessory voltage posts you would need, perfect for your small layout. Footprint is about 5"x 7". I have one that i use for my test bench/track. works great. $80 for a refubished unit is a bit high, but it’s “bulletproof”, and you won’t be needing another transformer for a long time.
Just one word of caution: don’t trust the breaker in the LW. Use an external fuse or breaker, rated at 5 amps or so.
Where do I get an external fuse or breaker? Radio Shack or similar?
Radio shack may not have them anymore, as they are carrying less & less parts in their stores. For inline fuse holders & fuses, I’ve been buying them online from my electronics suppliers. You can get them from any auto parts stores, I’ve done that when I need one quick.
Some of the guys are using breakers from this site. Try searching for the circuit breakers they build & add on to the ZWs.
http://www.scottsodds-n-ends.com/circuit_breakers.htm
Thanks, John