Placed an A-B-A set on my track along with 6 lighted passenger cars and the train refused to run. So I must need a new transformer right. Got it going with an old KW. Now I’m thinking about the modern ZW’s cause I already have 2 unused powerhouses. Or can I use one of the powerhouses for power ??? I bought them to set up TMCC but never did. [:O]
Seems there are not as many modern ZW’s for sale as there once was…
The new Lionel ZW-L should be available sometime after the first of the year. It is in the latest Lionel catalog, list price is $800.
A couple of ideas you might consider;
First, contact Ken http://www.lioneltransformers.com/ he does transformer repair, and may also have some “good buys”. I had him repair a couple of transformers for me, and he did an outstanding job.
Second, consider looking at the MTH 4000, it has a lot of power similiar to the ZW. However it only has 2 throttles, but does have the built in gauges. Price is in the $400 range, I think.
Lionel should have something between 100 and 800 dollars. [:(]
Yes, there should be a medium sized modern transformer available at a reasonable price. There isn’t. Lionel has the CW80 and used to have the new ZW controller that used up to 4 180W Powerhouse transformers. production of those has been stopped, you will have to find it on the secondary market, or at a train shop that hasn’t sold out of it’s inventory.
MTH isn’t much better-- The Z1000 is only 100 watts, It’s a good unit, but I think MTH needs to produce a 180W capable controller-- they would sell—
The Z4000 is a good alternative to the modern ZW if you can find it at a good price— usually available on EBay for under list price, or at train shops at a small discount from list.
You can use any of Lionel’s PW transformers, BUT you MUST use external fuses or circuit breakers between it and the track. And use of a TVS (transient Voltage suppressor) is a very good idea,too. Of course, you also will need a lionel Sound activation button to sound the bell on modern engines(and to acess the features of MTH PS2 engines)
Hope this helps----
I use MRC’s Pure Power Dual at 270 watts. It controls 2 independent loops and has 14v accessory taps too. Comes with amp and volt guages. These show up on ebay periodically. I’ve had mine for 3 years with no complaints.
Terry
The old KW has been driving me nuts for 30 years with the one handle up and one handle down configuration. I have TV’s and fuses installed. Like the MRC Dual.