I would like to use my fathers Lionel ZW with modern engines and electronics and would like some recommendations for track protection. Would appreciate some guidance. Thanks in advance!
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Adding individual circuit breakers to each output is one upgrade, and adding TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor) diodes across each track feed is the second recommendation.
Larry
As Larry mentioned, good circuit breakers are a must if you are running engines with modern electronics. I use two post-war ZW’s to power my layout.
The box between them is the circuit breaker box. I found the instructions in one of Jim Barrett’s great Backshop videos. They are now available on line for $1.99. It is clear, concise, and easy to follow (my version is simpler since I do not use DCS and never will, so I just needed one line in and one line out). I highly recommend the video - the breakers have saved my bacon on numerous occasions!!! Here is a link to the video:
Attachments
Images (1)
Actually, adding TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor) diodes across each track feed is the most critical, and adding individual circuit breakers to each output is the second recommendation as a convenience so the whole layout doesn't shut down with a short on just one power district.
Not sure what breakers Jim Barret used, but I would go with fast acting magnetic hydraulic breakers. I use Eaton FAZ B curve breakers between my ZWs and my TIU. Automation Direct has them for around $10 each. You will need a DIN rail to mount them. I replaced one of the ones in the photo with a 5 amp breaker because the 4 amp didn’t take kindly to the current draw of too many passenger cars. I also have 10 amp automotive mini fuses in series with the breakers, but the breakers almost always trip before the fuses. I also use TVS diodes. There are many threads here on this subject. Do a search and you will most likely find more info on the diodes.
Attachments
Images (1)
