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I was given a dusty old KW transformer from a neighbor.  Needs some new knobs.  The

cord is really frayed and needs replaced.  I also can feel movement inside if I turn it

side to side.  I plugged it into a power strip and stayed back when I turned it on.  It makes

a humming noise, but no smoke or bad smell.  What is involved in replacing the cord and

making sure it's working OK?  Is this something I can do?  If not, is it worth spending money

to repair since there is probably much labor involved?  Thanks in advance.

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This is a work horse of a transformer.  I have mine since 1998 and it was nearly 50 years old when I got it.  It is worth having it repaired and tested by someone who knows what they're doing.  I'm electrically challenged so I had it fixed by a Lionel repair man.  You can run 2 trains plus it has 2 accessory taps on the back.

If it's going to be used it should be fully restored.  This KW Rebuild page shows all that is involved. 

Yes, you can do it yourself.  Learn to solder if needed.  (See the soldering page on my website.)

Yes, it's worth spending money on parts to restore KWs, ZWs, and VWs.

You can usually buy good restored postwar transformers at train meets for what it would cost you to have them restored.

Rebuilding a KW is pretty easy, but it does involve soldering and you have to be comfortable working on electrical equipment. If you're not familiar with soldering, this might not be the best place to learn. As Susan says, there are a few professional rebuilders around who will do the job at a reasonable price and guarantee their work. And, she is also right that if the transformer in question needs a lot of work, it would be cheaper to buy a rebuilt one outright. If you don't happen to live near somebody who fixes transformers, shipping cost is also a consideration. 

Susan,

 

Thanks for that link.  It appears that the whole transformer must be taken apart to get to the solder connection for the power cord.  I was hoping I could just take the shell off and get to it easily, but no go.  I think I'll just pass the problem onto somebody else who has the time and expertise to fix it.

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