ADCX Rob posted:DougB posted:I disagree on the comment on the three pole plug, I use a power strip and when I put the three conductor on the transformer I check the power side is the same location on the transformers...
There is no problem with using a three pronged grounding plug for the way you are using it. The problem comes up when the grounding plug wire is connected to a metal part of the transformer - a big no-no. Just cut it and leave it not touching anything.
I know I said that the subject is closed as far as I was concerned, but I have been advised to state as a final comment that the practice of installing 3 wire cords with 3 prong cords on the older transformers is correct. The facts are that if the transformer is in good shape it is not necessary. In the rare case that there is a short inside the transformer that makes its way to the transformer mounting plates, it will energize the base plates with power. It may only be a small voltage, but it could also be 110 volts. The grounding of the plates, will short out small voltages to ground, and in the case of a large voltage, it should blow the house breaker. It is for this reason that every appliance, tool etc that has exposed metal will have 3 wire grounding cords.
People use these transformers in all kinds of environments, from nice dry living rooms to damp basements some with water on the floor, some outside. If our practice saves just one life, the investment we have made is well worth it. I strongly encourage everyone who is changing a power cord on their transformer to follow suit and use a 3 wire cable. The procedure I suggest is wire the black and white wires first, then plug the transformer in and scratch the green wire on the outside plate of the transformer. If there is any spark at all, I strongly advise you to scrap the transformer, which is exactly what we do. We have followed this procedure for over 200 transformers since we started this procedure and have not received one complaint of the transformer not operating perfectly or anyone getting a shock. How do I know of this number? Because we purchase our cords in 100 lot quantities, and we are in our third batch. I will not respond further on this issue. My intent is solely to do what little I can to help provide a safe train environment. If that is upsetting to some people so be it. Please consider our suggestion when you are replacing cords. If you have someone else doing this for you, ask them to do the same test. Thank you all for your patience.
TinMan
