Another question that came up at the “older” guys’ meeting a few days ago. We all have accessories wired to our ZWs and CWs and a few of us have some left over Bachmann Power Packs from our HO days. Is there any way that we can “free-up” accessories from our transformers by connecting them to our Power Packs without complicating the train operations? As always, many thanks.
Sure. Things like vibrating cattle ramps won’t work. But anything that’s just lamps and solenoids, like signals and crossing gates will work just fine on DC. HO power supplies typically don’t put out a lot of current, so you may have to ration how many you power with each one.
By the way, if anyone’s worried about accessories connected to control rails or turnouts like the 022 with a fixed-voltage plug, there is no problem running these on DC. Just be sure that one side of the DC supply is connected to the layout common (outside rails).
Bob: Going to one of the guys later and we will try it. Thanks, so much,
99.44% of HO power packs (at least the ones packaged with toy train sets) have fixed-voltage AC outputs. Their internal construction is such that the pack’s full-rated power (usually about 7 watts) is available at the AC taps as long as the DC side is not connected.
I use their AC output to power switch machines (twin coil variety) and lamps (signals, structures and even panel indicators.) I have a whole row of them plugged into one of those outlet bars with a circuit breaker. Since, collectively, they draw about as much power as a table lamp, the breaker is in no danger of popping.
Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - with real galvanized steel ‘tinplate’ rolling stock)
I have a transformer just dedicated to accessories. It’s a small American Flyer one. I do have 2 Marx transformers that have separate posts that say “ACCES 15 volts” on the side. I like the separate transformer, I can adjust the throttle to make the Coal Loader or Gantry Crane go as fast or slower as I need it.
TomikawaTT & PhilaKnight: Appreciate your input.