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Note: I originally posted this in the wrong forum - still learning

Hello! I am a new member and a VERY novice O Gauge/Scale train collector. I have been slowly building up my collection (under my wife's nose - she actually knows) of engines and rolling stock waiting until we can afford to move from our small condo into a house with a basement for my dream layout. Growing up my dad had the original LZ  transformer and I thought about getting a rebuilt one. The new systems are much more advanced with wireless and protection capabilities. I have been reading posts on this forum for years and there is a wealth of knowledge and experience to be had.

I presently have Lionel CW-40 and CW-80 power sources for use at Christmas time. Eventually I would like to afford a ZW-L transformer but meanwhile am intrigued with the 6-2930 ZW-C Multi Watt system where I can add power as my layout and budget grows. Unfortunately I learned of this option only recently as obtaining new or reliable sets is difficult to find. Would appreciate any advice as to how to proceed with reliable power sources without breaking the bank.

So much to learn about how to power, wire and protect my present and future layout. Thanks! DALE

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I'd pass on the ZW-C.  For one thing, parts are no longer available.  I know of two that are shelf queens because the main board croaked and there's no replacement.  Also, as Chuck notes, there is an update to the uP on the board that fixes operating bugs with Legacy.  The ZW-C is ancient history and was never that great a choice, hold out for the ZW-L if you want a ZW.

If you run strictly conventional, consider a nice rebuilt postwar ZW.  Kent at Tranz4mr’s has some nice fully rebuilt ZW's at attractive prices.  I also know he does a great job with the rebuilds, you'll have a transformer that will give you years of good service.  He also has the KW at bargain prices.  Truthfully, the KW is the hidden bargain in transformers, decent power at a discount price.  Here's a couple of examples from his Tranz4mr’s Yard Sale page, there are lots more there.

 

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@cjack posted:

Make sure you get a C with the Legacy update.

If you got a ZW-C cheap I thing it would be a good stepping stone for layout expansion.  If you are financially able, then the ZW-L is the way to go.  Each throttle of a ZW-C with a PH180 is equal to a postwar ZW.

I just got my ZW-C out of storage to use with some PM135s I bought over the years.  I plan to use it for accessories, and I may or may not use it for track power as I start wiring my layout.  How do you upgrade it?  And if I use it only for accessories, does it need to be upgraded?  Thanks.

Last edited by CAPPilot

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