PLEASE do not cut the cable. The newest PH-180's have an interlock in the connector which was apparently added in order to meet the latest safety standards. If you cut the connector off, then off goes the interlock as well, which will render the PH-180 useless.
Now, it can be fixed but the process adds a great deal of extra work that isn't necessary.
Click on the following for more details:
Lionel 180 watt powerhouse 6-85226- Problem & Solution (7/8/20) | StevefromPA
Mike