question on this subject is… i have a 400 watt transformer made by MTH the Z4000, i seen in a wire book published by kilbach and it said i can connect both sides to one layout… is that true and how can i do this so i can have the most out of my transformer. thanks chad at the train lab
Do not connect both throttles to one track circuit. It is not necessary, you will not be able to control your trains properly, and you will not get any more power that way. Any multi-throttle transformer, like KW, ZW, Z4000 etc. can output its’ maximum power through any one throttle. All you need to do is load it down with trains, lights, accessories, etc.
Many hobbyists unfortunately think a transformer can “put out” a certain wattage. A transformer has the capacity to provide a certain wattage, but it may NOT provide that wattage when running trains if there is not enough of a load to provide that wattage. A transformer rated at 200 watts hooked up to a layout with only a 15 watt bulb connected will only provide 15 watts, because that is all the layout is asking for.
The rated output of your Z400 can go through either throttle.
Larry
Wrong in the case of the Z4000. You can get a maximum of 180 watts from each output, a UL maximum. Also, you can’t connect the inputs together to try to get more power from a single connection, from the user’s manual.
The new, computer controlled transformers are indeed limited to the total amount amount of power available at each throttle, due presumably to UL regulations so that we do not “hurt” ourselves. The older transformers do not have that limitation.
Larry
thanks i really did not want to blow up something that i paid good money for… thanks a million chad at the train lab/home