Is one controller enough? (MRC Dual O27)

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

I just picked up an MRC Dual Power O27 270 watt transformer. The Old Metal Box type. It’s new and I’m excited about putting together my first layout.

One Question: It has two ports for hand-held controllers, it comes with one. Do I need another and/or since they are being phased out, should I pick up a spare while I can?

Dan

Still bargains to be had on Ebay(I think). 270 watt transformer for $75 w/ shipping and insurance incl. For my starter transformer, I think I got a deal. Did I? It seems that the MRC/MTH/Lionel ZW types are around a dollar a watt. Is that true?

2

Dan
Seems like a good buy to me. Old reconditioned pw ZWs are about $150 for a net output of 180-190 watts.
Just be aware that the MRC unit was a problem for operating some early electronic engines,in my case MTH Proto 1.0 QSI units . I bought the transformer when it first came out because I had good luck with MRC DC units when in HO.
I got frustrated with it and ultimately gave it to a guy who used it for accessories but did not tie it to his layout’s railpower Common. I recall that someone reported that the transformer was not a problem in running later modern engines.
I don’t know where you can find another hand held remote—perhaps a call to MRC might provide a clue.

3

Thanks for the info, Leonard. I was planning on running some very recent trains, so I hope there’s no problems.

I just remembered why I come to this forum for advice–helpful, nice people like you.

Thanks,

Dan

4

danrunner, I’m a bit confused.

I have an MRC dual 270 that I bought late summer of 2003.

Mine didn’t come with any kind of hand-held controllers. Nor do I see ‘ports’ for any.

I know the one I have was brand spanking new from the factory when I bought it. Is yours newer or older than mine?? That is, are the hand-controllers a new thing on the more recent versions? I don’t see them mentioned in the ads either.

thanks- walt

5

Walt
danrunner’s MRC transformer came out 8-10 years ago—a rectangular metal case with dual railpower outputs as well as fixed voltage terminals. Its only railpower regulation was via a handheld throttle. One remote came with the unit but it has ports for two. I had one of the transformers and it was a pain in the patoot when trying to run MTH QSI/ Proto 1.0 engines.
I assume you have the recent vintage , modern MCR unit with the ZW-like throttles and mounted meters.