Just setup trains around Christmas tree and no power output or green light from CW-80. It has the fan running. Date code 0605 so I know it is one of the old ones. I tried to get help from Lionel service having read on this site that they were exchanging the old bad ones for the newer style but the lady told me it was out of warranty. I know many of the exchanges were past the warranty date. What are my options? Any suggestions?
Thanks,
AL-X
I am guessing that there has been more threads on various forums in regards to the CW-80 transformer than any other electric train product. You probably are up the creek without a paddle as far as getting Lionel to replace it since it is way past the warranty cut-off.
If the purpose of the transformer is for seasonal Christmas Tree running I would suggest heading over to the closest train shop and purchase another small transformer, staying away from the CW-80 as a replacement.
I disagree.
If you can find one of the newer CW-80s they are fine.
I think we have 4 or 5 CW-80s in the family, guess we have been lucky as they all work as intended. As for picking another brand, well that’s your choice, 5 or 6 years is past the warranty date of almost everything.
LOL, this guy from another forum might disagree with you assessment.
I just had my third cw-80 quit on me. this was a replacement from lionel for one of the first two that had went bad.
I sent the email to lionel last week when it stopped working, and still no response from lionel. 
Yes I read your OGR thread, For some they have been troublesome.
Buy a newer transformer, like at a train show in your area or on www.choochooauction.com. Make sure you get a newer date code if you buy another CW-80. I have two MTH Z-1000’s and they work very good, even with Williams engines. Lee F.
You sure that you don’t have a short somewhere? When the internal circuit breaker kiks, the green light goes out.
You might try disconnecting it from the track and turning it on to see if you get a green light.
Good luck.
8ntruck,
I’m not familiar with the CW-80 transformer, as I don’t own one, but thank you for your very important safety tip.
The CW-80 transformer looks nice enough to own.
Merry Christmas,
Ralph
I don’t have any advice, but I’ve been waiting for the same thing to happen to mine. It still works, but the fan starts up as soon as I plug it in. I use two of them, and the one next to it is newer and has not had the same issue. I seem to remember a polarity issue with the older one as well. I’m hoping to replace both with an MRC unit this season.
I tried with it not connected to the track and there was no change in status. What else would you all suggest as a replacement, upgrade or 2 train transformer?
Stick with the CW-80 for now. I have heard that the MRC transformers in O gauge have an issue or two when it comes to the whistle or horn features and new electronics. You may want to look at buying an older KW and adding circuit breakers to the output terminals to protect the newer electronics.
Circuit breakers protect the wiring and the transformer. TVSs protect the train electronics.