I am uncertain into which "forum" this belongs. I am new to model trains. I have had a "stoppage." I have an MTH Z4000 which powers a "test track." Today, running a MTH RK NYC Empire Express engine (30-1143-1) and hooked up to 14 MTH 18/19" aluminum passenger cars all was well for about 7-9 minutes. The entire train responded to 12-14 volts (did not look at the amperage). Without warning, everything shut down, engine, lights in passenger cars, dead, dead, dead. I moved the engine/tender to an adjacent loop, used the other handle (left one), engine came on, ran. Did not attempt to attach all 14 cars (would not have fit). The left side light (red) did not come on which usually occurs when there is a derailment/trucks get crooked/etc. Question: Does the Z4000 have an internal circuit breaker which could lead to a total shutdown on one side but not the other? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you, Syd
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First off you will find four breakers on rear of Z4000 near terminals.
Ron
Thanks to Ron. I am in my 8th decade. I claim senior moments. That's my story, and I'm sticking to it.
I am using old Lionel/Marx "lock ons" for transferring power from the transformer to the test track. I disconnected the lock on, attached alligator clips to the appropriate rails, all came on. Re-attached the lock on- no power to track. I changed the lock on, powered up as it should. Inspected the defunct lock on-no apparent visual problems seen. Still a mystery to this "senior citizen."
Thanks again Ron, I'll also check the CB's (how I don't know).
Syd
Thanks to Ron. I am in my 8th decade. I claim senior moments. That's my story, and I'm sticking to it.
I am using old Lionel/Marx "lock ons" for transferring power from the transformer to the test track. I disconnected the lock on, attached alligator clips to the appropriate rails, all came on. Re-attached the lock on- no power to track. I changed the lock on, powered up as it should. Inspected the defunct lock on-no apparent visual problems seen. Still a mystery to this "senior citizen."
Thanks again Ron, I'll also check the CB's (how I don't know).
Syd
Sometimes the "lock-ons" need to be re-bent for a tighter fit on the track.
Thanks Bob for taking the time to respond. I'll try your suggestion.-Syd
Fourteen lighted aluminum cars plus the engine(s) is quite a LOAD for ANY transformer!
NOTE: If your total amperage exceeded 10 amps, the Z-4000 will automatically shut down.
Try running a SHORTER train.
To Timplate Are and Dale H-Thank you both for the input. I have come to the conclusion that 14 lighted passenger cars exceeded the capacity of the transformer, regardless of the condition of the "lock-on." To Dale H, I have read about the LED's. Where are they obtained? How are they installed? Are they bright while like the ones in my house?
Again, thanks for responding.
Syd