I'm curious about the starting voltage - lowest voltage when the throttle is just barely opened - on the Z4000. Can't seem to find that info. anywhere. If anybody could check it out and post here, I'd appreciate it!
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
First one question, which version Z4000 do you have? There is a plate on the back that list output. What is stated 180VA or something around 165VA?
Ron
I don't have a Z4000 yet, I'm just considering purchasing one. I run some can-motored, conventional engines that need a very low starting voltage on the track to get a smooth start, so this is an important aspect to me. Thanks!
Put a few back to back diode pairs in series with the track connection to drop the voltage, this works for any transformer to lower the start voltage.
Originally Posted by gunrunnerjohn:
Put a few back to back diode pairs in series with the track connection to drop the voltage, this works for any transformer to lower the start voltage.
I like the sound of that idea. I was told once that doing so could create excessive strain on the transformer, but that advice didn't sound right to me. What sort of diodes would work best for this, and could I find them somewhere like Radio Shack?
No strain at all, whoever told you that had no idea what they're talking about! I'd consider 6A diodes, since they're 1/2 wave, that will give you 12A AC, more than you'll ever deliver to a single locomotive I would imagine.
49Lionel, the Z4000 starts at about 5 volts.
Similar to many Lionel PW transformers, I see from 6 to 7 volts for most of them. A couple of diode pairs would tame this beast just fine. 
Thanks for the advice, guys. I've been looking for a transformer that can "do it all", and it sounds like with this small tweak the Z4000 will be perfect for my needs.
