I am just getting back into O gauge railroading…confused over transformers. I have two Lionel train sets and rolling stock, about ten years old…will the ZW275 run a layout with two trains and lighted accessories? Should I go to a new transformer, etc…confused!
Welcome!
Sounds like you’re good to go.
The only thing you may want to add later once you are up & running is some way to activate bells if your locos are so equipped(horn/whistle functions are controlled by the ZW as it is). Lionel makes a #5906 Sound Activation Button for this purpose.
Rob
You should have plenty of power with any ZW transformer. The 275 watt ZW has whistle & direction buttons that work with the two outside(long handle lever) handles only. The inside ones would be better for accessories.
Lee F.
Although it says 275 watts it runs cool at about 180 watts. You should be fine though. Im guessing your engines are single motor not double. I usually go by these numbers. I know some on here will say they arent exactly accurate… that voltage and other factors need to be accounted for but its just a rough idea of what kind of power you’re using.
Every motor I say is about 45 WATTS. I usually include operating accessories with this that have motors.
Every bulb is about 3 to 5 WATTS.
Accessories like the 145 gateman, 151 semaphore, 494 rotary beacon, and 455 oil derrick I just throw out a number of 15 to 20 WATTS.
If you think you’ll exceed 180 watts ever, dont stress your transformer. You can get a smaller postwar era transformer like a Z , KW, TW, or 1033 for real cheap to power accessories. Hope this helps and good luck.