Noob question!

Emoss Nov 24, 2012

  1. Emoss

    Emoss New Member

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    Hi all. Apologies in advance if this covered elsewhere in the forums. I've recently brought Dad's old train set down from the attic - an early 60's AF set-up with a 307 engine and a few cars. Short double loop layout with a couple automatic switches, nothing fancy or elaborate at all. And I'm having a blast!

    My issue is the power supply. It's a vintage AF 1A 40 watt unit and it looks to be a serious fire hazard. It works, but with the looks of it I'm just not comfortable letting it run for any length of time - let alone unattended!

    So really what I'm looking for is a recommendation for a simple, AC power supply unit that will keep my 4 or 5 unlit cars moving around the Christmas tree safely and reliably. I'm happy to pay to get a good unit that fits the bill, but don't want to throw down a chunk of change for something that is really overkill.

    Any thought?

    Thanks in advance!
    Ed
     
  2. BoxcabE50

    BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    Ed-

    Welcome to TrainBoard!

    You are quite correct to set aside the old transformer, if there are any doubts about safety. If thinking of something new, you might take a look at what Lionel has to offer. I've a feeling probably something such as their CW-80.
     
  3. YoHo

    YoHo TrainBoard Supporter

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    Back in the 80s and 90s, MRC made a solid state Lionel/AF transformer in the tech II lineup. I don't know if they have one in the current lineup, but you can probably stil find some of the TECH IIs.
     
  4. mogollon

    mogollon TrainBoard Member

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    Yes, a Lionel or MRC AC transformer/power pack will run your AF trains just fine. You might keep the old transformer since it is a piece of "history". Have fun and run a train today.

    Woodie
     
  5. Greg Elems

    Greg Elems Staff Member

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    Another transformer that will work is the one that American Models sell. Made for their AC powered line of AF compatible locomotives.

    http://www.americanmodels.com/misc/electrical.html

    I don't know how the price compares to the Lionel or MRC transformers.

    Greg
     
  6. BoxcabE50

    BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    What Greg suggests is a cheaper alternative.
     

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