Well once again I have dragged my now expired father-in-law's old trains out of the attic and with this forum hope to finally get it up and running. The American Flyer 301 engine with tender has enough original steel track to create a 3 ft. circle which is fine for the next week. But I believe I need a transformer. How can I test the one I have. I have two old transformers. Is there a way to identify to correct one? Should I just replace it and with what? How can I be sure the engine is working? Am I even asking the right question in the right place? Thanks and Merry Christmas. Craig
Hi Craig, Welcome aboard! I can't answer, but people here know. Actually this should be asked in the modeling forums. I'm sure a mod will come along and move this thread, and it will get more attention there. Merry Christmas!
Craig, do you or a friend have an electrical multitester? Your transformers should have two terminals marked "To track", which should put out 0 to 16 volts AC, depending on the setting for the speed control knob. Old AF and Lionel train sets used AC, not the DC used for today's models. :cat:
Craig- Welcome to TrainBoard! Am not certain what you have as transformers. They are American Flyer? The engine you have, (#301= Reading Lines?), being hi-rail/tinplate AF, should require variable AC voltage. A simple way to test the transformer, would be if you had a spare AF light bulb around. Boxcab E50
Thanks for the few suggestions. I do have multitester and believe I know which is the correct transformer now. Will let you know how I do. Crag
Now for an update. The AF transformer I have has three post. Base, 7-15 volt and 15 volt. The cord was shot and I cut it six inches from the base and soldered a new cord to the wires. Output was available between the base and 15 volt post, but no the 7-15 volt post. When testing the 301 there was no motion from the wheels. Cleaned the brushes and contacts, but still very limited wheel motion. Upon examination it appears there is a bad winding in the engine. Guess this engine will become a diplay item on the shelf unless someone has other suggestions. Craig
It's been a while. So am trying to remember. The post combinations should allow a variable output, 7-15vac, and a fixed output, 15vac, for accessories. You can use the fixed side to quickly test an engine for operation. Sounds as though part of the transformer function is not working? Boxcab E50
You have the post config correct and I did use the 15 volt post to test. No luck. Now am thinking about looking at something else. Any suggestions? I do like the size of the AF 301, but could go smaller and even think it would be better. Craig