I got into an old box of Lionel trains and found that a small transformer had a frayed power cord where it goes into the unit. I'm pretty careful about messing with this kind of stuff and I think I know what to attempt to do to fix it (solder and shrink wrap). But it looks a bit discolored and I'm not sure if this thing will work after all.
It's a Lionel model 1012 transformer without the screw terminals (are those available anywhere).
I took some pictures. What do you think?
/IMG_4365.JPG)
Replies sorted oldest to newest
To be honest with you, that one looks like it is toasted or NO good! Get another transformer that you know is good and use it.
Lee Fritz
Thanks Lee! But would it hurt to plug it in and maybe start a small fire that I could quickly run away from as I bolt out the back door? I'm thinking that the scorch marks were created by the broken power cord; I don't know, I wasn't there. The coil on the transformer looks to be in good shape (it's hard to tell from the pictures).
I tried to pry off the control handle but I heard on the net that they were not made to come off. So I have no way to look at the rest of the situation. I think I'll try to fix the wires and if that works out, I'll give it a try. If I burn off my eyebrows, I'll put up another picture.
Here is the exploded diagram:
http://www.olsenstoy.com/cd/transfmr/ps1011a.pdf
The nuts (1033-47) are available from any of the standard parts suppliers.
Feel free to carefully replace the cord and try things out (with all of the applicable precautions and safeties observed)
Thanks BMORAN4! Are there really other BMORAN's? Never mind. I'll check myself, later.
I forgot to mention that I had cut the old cord off because I saw the shape that it was in and didn't want anyone to try plugging it in and blowing a fuse. The old cord is strangely stiff and the spot near the entry to the transformer was brittle and flaking off. I guess Lionel starter sets from the '50s had to save on material somewhere.
Tomorrow I may get a chance to stop by one of the box stores for a new power cord and some shrink wrap. I might just wander around in there for a while and take inventory. Do they still make regular old two prong power cords anymore? I may need a three prong adapter as well.
Your standard big box stores will not have nonpolarized power cords. You will end up purchasing 16 gauge lamp wire, and a separate non polarized plug and wiring up yourself.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Lev...-48643-0DE/202077705
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Sou...e-55681899/204725033
Thanks again BMORAN4! There are no other BMORAN's on this forum. I checked.
Not only did you point me in the right direction, the link you posted knows where I live and where the items are in the store: Aisle 45, Bay 006. That's amazingly helpful. Thanks again! And yes, I'm still fascinated by the Internet!
This old cord has seen better days.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
