Choo Choo Charlie posted:RexK
Per your original post and desire to run vintage tinplate trains there is no need to buy powerful ZW (limited to 69 watts per each of 4 trains with only two having direction and whistle) or Z4000 with 165 watts for each of 2 trains with modern circuit breakers for sensitive electronics).
The most powerful single train postwar transformer is the Lionel LW at 125 watts output. These are available for $40 to $60 plus shipping on eBay or less at train shows. The LW has a lighted dial for night operation and light intensity indicates voltage to the track. With one LW per train circuit you have direction and whistle and can separate operators. The LW with 125 watts can run two postwar trains per circuit.
With all of these transformers, they should be limited to only running trains and not accessories and lights on the layout to allow full wattage to be available for train operation. Cheaper transformers are available to run these at constant voltages as other have suggested.
Charlie
Have you forgotten the TW Charlie?
A single train Lionel transformer with 175 watts. They also go for around $50 - $60
One of my favs
