@ArtsModelTrains posted:if I have a Lionel Fastrack Operating track hooked up to the constant voltage would it work at 9v? The manual says 10-12 v to operate, that is why I was using the C & D post combo.
Oh my! You essentially need common ground wiring to run the FasTrack Operating Track uncoupling coil on accessory power. This is your root problem as you were "shorting out" the difference in the voltages between the non-common wiring you started out with. You can see this with the loose math 15V-9V=6V. So my first post was spot on - you needed common ground wiring between your accessory and track lines. Now, will 9VAC be enough for the operating track? This can vary dependent upon the use case and specific cars due to tolerances. I usually run my postwar equivalents on 14-16VAC, but since I run a bank of ZWs will all variable voltage outputs, I can tweak the voltage however I need.
@ArtsModelTrains posted:Also, if I follow your instructions above I'm going to use a multimeter and mark my transformer at 17 / 18 V since that combo you mention above can go to 19v which is above the max Lionel recommends for Lionchief engines.
Not a bad idea. Note that your RW has a whistle/horn button that will add a 5V boost to compensate for the air whistle motor load. So if someone were to press the whistle/horn button, note that there will be an additional 5V above the set handle.
