I found this comment about the Lionel ZW_L transformer in another OGR thread:
"Lionel uses a modified Sine wave output and limits voltage to 18V. Lionel engine with command can be damaged with voltage above 18Vs."
If this comment is correct, I suggest trying a different transformer. Maybe the Barrel loader will not work properly with a modified sine wave power source.
What are other people using to power their 362 barrel loaders?
Here is a thread on power supplies: thread link
Here is the utube video referenced in the other thread. the embedded one does not work for me: video link
The video confirms that the ZW-L uses chopped sine wave. And I would not be surprised if this is the reason your barrel loader does not work properly.
C.W. and Sean:
I have both a post-war 362 and a modern 6-32996 barrel loader on my layout. My layout is powered by post-war ZW’s which according to the linked video produce a SMOOTH sine wave. But these loaders and essentially all of my operating accessories receive their power through a PM-1 Powermaster which according to that video produces a CHOPPED sine wave. I use a CAB-1 to adjust the voltage and both of my barrel loaders are screwed down and work fine at about 12-14 volts using the PM-1 delivering a chopped sine wave.
Before adding TMCC and the new barrel loader, I used the ZW directly for the postwar barrel loader and it worked fine.
Now, why do I have two barrel loaders? The loaders are located in two completely different sections of the layout so I can move barrels from one section to the other section rather than simply unloading them and loading them back into the same car on the same track. I do that with logs, coal, culverts and horses, too.
HTH,
Bill
