My son and I were testing a ZW transformer in preparation for our Christmas layout. We noticed that the whistles were not working so we pulled the cover and discovered that it appears to have no whistle diodes, or rectifiers, or whatever the proper name is. Our old ZW was always splitting the diode into two pieces when we blew the whistle so we replaced the ZW with this one. I guess I didn't realize that they made ZW's without a whistle.
Is it possible to outfit the ZW with a whistle?
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Never heard of a ZW being made without the whistle rectifiers. Possibly they were removed by a previous owner if this is a used item. If the rectifier frame and lamp bracket assemblies are present, then you can purchase the individual parts to get the whistle functions working. See here for an exploded view with part numbers, and here for a wiring diagram. Most online parts dealers have these parts. The #66-9 speednut does not seem to be available, and may have to be replaced with a #1033-86.
If you have a modern ZW, they do not have rectifiers, and everything is done with electronics. If that is the case, then you have a different problem. Is this an older, or newer ZW?
Larry
Original ZW rectifiers were made of metal. How could the "diodes" get split into two pieces? Sounds like an improper repair was made to your old one. If so, ZW probably can be repaired (properly).
The original rectifiers are flat metal disks that look somewhat like very large fender washers with a special coating. They are mounted near the base of the whistle control assemblies. One on each assembly.
Lionel made a Type Z transformer that did not have
a whistle diode in side. All ZW transformers had
whistle diodes, that is what the W means in ZW.
If your other ZW was splitting the disc when operating
the whistle, there must be a short when the whistle is
operated. The disc can be replaced by a rectifier diode but
the whistle switch must work correctly.
Lionel made a Type Z transformer that did not have
a whistle diode in side.
Type Z is in a totally different case, and has different controls (all on top), than a ZW. I think its rectifier has been removed. Or you have a prototype. Prototype stuff was occasionally shipped by accident, as replacements during covering of warranties. Its how I got a KW with reversed operation of the right handle.
You can make an external bell whistle controller,described here
www.jcstudiosinc.com/BlogShowThread?id=412
Dale H
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