Fixing a 90W Transformer Lever

That is a 80 CW-80 transformer, it is an electronic power supply more than a straight transformer as it were. The potentiometer that the handle is affixed to appears to be faulty. Fortunately, it is about the only part that is serviceable on these CWs, IF you can get the case opened(it is designed to be a throwaway transformer - not intended to be repaired at all).

 

If you can find someone to service the unit, I can send you or your friend a replacement potentiometer.

John T,

    Advise your friend to throw the CW-80 in the garbage, Rob is absolutely correct, engineered as a throw away introductory transformer by Lionel, they are really not worth repairing, further advise your friend to invest in at least a Z1000 transformer or larger, for running his layout correctly, he will thank you for it in the end.

PCRR/Dave

 

Not to hijack the thread.  But where can order a new potentiometer?  I have the driver to get the case open.

Thanks in advance for the info.

You can't order them, they're made of unobtainium.

 

I keep them when dissecting dead CWs.

If it is set # 6-30161, try calling Lionel customer service and ask for a replacement.

The CW-80 is a fine entry-level transformer.  I have three that have been performing flawlessly for seven, five, and four years respectively.  I am especially fond of the programmable accessory voltage feature.

 

Your colleague definitely should call Lionel customer service and explain the problem.

 

Pete

Do not throw the transformer away. I made mine into a power supply.

Obviously I have no need, but would you care to explain the procedure for those who might like to give it a go?

 

Pete

 

The CW happens to be powered by a substantial 8-9 amp transformer core that can be re-purposed for many projects, even powering PM-1s/TPCs.

And its a shame that it has such a poor overall track record. If it would sequence old postwar E units a bit quicker, I would replace the 1041 that powers my xmas tree layout.  But the slow ramp up in power makes E unit sequencing a slow process. It should have been designed to snap the voltage up quicker.  But for the newer electronic stuff I guess its ok. I like the looks of it, nice retro postwar styling. Just not postwar quality.   Mike

Try changing direction with the lever instead. It ramps up immediately as fast as you can move it... this is typically overlooked/misunderstood. This is one advantage that the otherwise paltry 90 degree control arc(compared to 200-270 for small MTH transformers) of the CW comes in handy.

Thank you, guys.  This info will be most useful for my friend.

 

Much obliged!

 

My CW is stuck at 18 volts all the time.  Will another pot fix it?  or is it a board problem?

Probably the circuit board / processor.

 

There is a chance that the pot has simply come unplugged from the board or one terminal has broken off of the pot, as this would be a symptom of that.

Thanks for the reply.  Pot wires look good.  I'll probably just get another CW.