Has anyone used the new Williams 150W Transformer.

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Has anyone used the new Williams 150W Transformer, if so, what was your opinion of it. Did it operate all trains ok, like modern, postwar, horns and bells, etc. Thanks

2

I bought one when they first came out. It will operate all Williams as well as Lionel post war trains without a problem. I do have trouble with TMCC engines in conventional as well as TMCC mode. When running TMCC engines in conventional mode, if you blow the horn or bell the engine will trip into neutral. TMCC mode runs erratically, and the unit also will not function with a TPC300. Trains will just take off down the track at times without entering a command. I’m sure there is nothing wrong with my engines or TMCC/TPC300 units because they function flawlessly with my post war ZW.

3

Thanks for the response. Did you noticed any slowing down of postwar locomotives when you blew the horn/whistle. This was a problem with the MRC transformers and I was wondering if that happens with the Williams units. Do the transformers carry a lifetime warranty like the engines do. Thanks

4

Had no problems with trains slowing down when horn is blown. I’ll have to dig out the arranty, but I think it is one year.

5

I have an MRC transformer. When I want to blow the whistle, I just boost the throttle a little. No problembo!

Jim

6

Will the Williams transformer handle a Lionel postwar dual motored F3 AA diesel and four dual bulbed aluminium passenger cars? Are all 150 watts of power available for the train or is some of it dedicated to an aux accessory tap? Also, does anyone know what the wattage draw would be for the above described set for postwar Lionel as well as a Williams dual motored F3. Thanks

7

I have one. Can’t beat the price - $99 from JustTrains. The first was defective and they promptly sent a new one. Quite adequate power. The cord is clunky and stiff and the connection pin is simply awful. That said, it works well in both conventional and TMCC. It runs my TMCC stuff without a hitch on a 9X6 layout.

8

The “other” O magazine had a review of the Williams transformer in their December issue. Their test included running “a postwar Lionel 2343 F3 diesel set followed by eight aluminum passenger cars,” for thirty minutes and reported no heating problems. The amperage draw of a Williams twin motor diesel with DC can motors should be less than a engine with twin universal AC motors, so you should be OK as long as keep the accessory output to a minimum.

Good luck!

9

Just curious, what is so awful about the connection pin. Is this between the brick and the controller or the controller and the track. Thanks