Skip to main content

My layout is currently being run by a Lionel KW transformer (190 watts). I bought it used about 12 years ago (so I'm not sure how old it is) but it's been a pretty good power source for a long time.

Recently, I've noticed issues with my Protosound-2 engine running on it. Even at full power (20 volt output) the engine is unable to reach a high speed on line A. On line B it is able to get a bit faster, but it is still slower than normal. Putting a voltmeter to the rails shows line A only putting out 15 volts with the engine on it while line B puts out 16 with the engine on it. When it is not connected to the track, both line A and B output 19 volts.

I've taken apart the transformer and cleaned the contact wheels on the coil. There was a considerable amount of carbon build up. Unfortunately, cleaning it resulted in no change. Therefore, I've been wondering if the transformer is dying. Has anyone had experience with an older Lionel KW?

I was considering replacing it with an MTH Z-4000. All 4 of my engines are MTH (3 Protosound-1's, and 1 Protosound-2) so an MTH transformer would probably be the better option for me. Before I drop $500 on the thing, I wanted some opinions. Maybe even some tips on what could be causing the voltage difference between line A and B and what I can do to get the Protosound-2 engine to run better on this old transformer.

 

Thanks in advance!

Last edited by VonFrank
Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

Originally Posted by Dale H:

Sounds like you may have voltage drop on the track loop. Dirty pins etc. 

 

Dale H

I thought so at first. To test, I swapped the wires going to the terminals on the back of the transformer (putting track A on output B and track B on output A) and the line with lower voltage changed to the other line. Therefore the wires, terminals, and track are not the problem.

Make sure the terminal posts inside the transformer are not loose. With the cover off and both throttles turned all the way up, check the voltage from the common terminal to the 'A' post, then check from common to the 'A' roller arm assembly itself. If there is a difference, you are losing voltage between the arm and the terminal post. Also check the reversing switch and circuit breaker contacts are clean and making good contact. Transformers are very hardy, and don't "die". With proper maintenance, they will last almost forever.

 

Larry

 

I also have a KW which still runs extremely well.  That is because I had the good fortune to meet a man named Ken Koehler.  He is out of the Chicago area and has repaired Lionel transformers for 30 years.  You clearly have roller issues and you may be able repair this yourself.  For me, when it comes to my power supply I wanted a perfect repair and Ken will give you that at a very reasonable price.  You can reach him at the below address:

 

Ken Koehler (Transformer Sales & Service) 620 Ca-Crest Drive Shorewood IL 60404-9754 US

815 725-5174

E-mail: Ken@LionelTransformers.com

 

Tell him Wood said hello... 

 

A followup reading of the original post seems to indicate that there is a 3 volt drop when hooking the transformer to the track. Are there any accessories that are using track power? If not, then there may be a high resistance short that is drawing the voltage down. The voltage should not drop 3 volts just by connecting the transformer to the track. With nothing on the track, turn the throttles up and run your hand along the tracks, feeling for a hot spot. Note a short may be very hot.

 

Larry

Add Reply

Post

OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Suite 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

×
×
×
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×
×