newbie question about transformers

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Hi,
I just pulled my old Lionel and Marx steamers out for myself and son. We also have a new lionel GP-38 and RP-3. This is becoming our hobby together, along with every sport imaginable. I am running two separate tracks now on a 10X 5 table and also plan to get another up and running on a 16X3 table in our basement. I need to replace my blue lionel brick that has no sound controls. Also it will occasionally kick off …I am assuming it is overheated and waiting to cool off.
My question is what are some good transformer options for each table? I suppose it would be nice to have both tracks on the 10 X 5 run from one transformer. Does the fact that one table is so long (16 ft) play into it ? I have seen the mth 750’s on Ebay and the Lionel 1033’s and RW’s. Are these all good choices? Will the old lionels work the horn on the newer diesels? Are the old transformers as safe and relaible as the new ones? Oh, so far only accessories we use are a couple of crossing gates and an old marx semiphore, and a couple of cars per line have lights.

thanks for the help
Teeb

2

Hi Teeb,

Welcome to the CTT forum

IMO if you wi***o run two train layout with accessories, then maybe look for a Lionel KW or ZW, MTH Z4000 or MRC Pure Power Duel.

The older transformers can be used (I use the postwar Lionel ZW). If you plan on buying newer engines with command control, then you may wi***o add a fast acting circuit breaker and surge protector.

tom

3

I agree with Tom. One thing, if you are thinking of getting any of the MTH engines with proto one, do not get a Z750 or Z1000. They use a modified wave technology that will not work with the proto 1 but will work fine in the non command mode with proto two.
For general all around use, I would look at the mrc pure dual power 1st and the mth Z4000 does not shut down to pure 0 volts and will not run a proto one system correctly unless you put a load on the track like a lighted passenger car.
Also the whistle controls work much better on the new transformers than the old ones.
If you are thinking pure command the best buy is an old lionel Z.
dave.