I have two PW ZWs with the voltmeter/ammeter add-on. Something suddenly went wrong yesterday when I turned the one that’s hooked up on - no voltage getting out to the tracks from either one of the four controls. The meter went screwy, showing less volts as I cranked the lever up. The display varied in light intensity as well as showing completely erroneous numbers. The manual says that the device has a rechargable 9v battery that might eventually have to be replaced. But no mention if the whole transformer will shut down on a discharded battery. The voltmeters were manufactured in 2000. Charging the battery is supposed to be via cranking up the control(s) to around 10 volts. But not sure if it’s charging or not with a screwy display.
I then did what most would do: hook up the other ZW. Same problem. This one has not been used for some time.
Yep battery is the first place to look. If the meters not working right,no power to the track. I did have to return my first one as it did what yours is doing and would not work . the replacement is ok so far.
You are absolutely right. I checked the voltage output and it was zero. I just checked the ZW a few minutes ago after having it on overnight. It is working. How long the battery will hold the charge may be in question. At least I know now what’s going on. I believe these voltmeter add-ons were made around yr 2000 which suggests the batteries are due for a change.
I know this is an olldie but it caught my eye. I have the voltmeter gauge for the postwar ZW. I haven’t installed it yet, but I was considering using one of those J&W battery replacement gizmos. They charge up VERY quickly (one minute at 10 volt power). They hold a charge for 2-3 hours. If they discharge, just power up for one minute and you are back in business. I contacted the manufacturer and they don’t think any harm would come to the battery, gauge set, or transformer. However, I haven’t tested it yet. Otherwise, I would replace the battery with a high capacity Nimh like this one: