Is there a consensus as to the best Z scale power pack (performance wise)? Especially for low speed control (under 6 volts). I don't mind using a 12 volt supply with having to use self restraint by limiting the throttle to the first half of useable range. My main concern is best, smooth, low speed performance from Märklin, MT and AZL locomotives. I currently have the "standard" newer Märklin model. Thanks, Komodo biggrin:
I don't think there is a consensus on power packs, because some like the Zthek controller, some like the Jorger, and some, like me, prefer the white heavy Marklin power pack. It's bulletproof, and has plenty of accessory power. I like the Gaugemaster electronic track cleaner attached to my Marklin power pack to get the best slow speed running out of my DC Marklin locos, but people swear by the Jorger, and the Zthek.
The jorger is the best hands down of everything I've tried. However it is difficult to find anymore. You next best bet is the Z thek. Also, use the gaugemasters with any supply and that power supply will seem even better.
Myself I use a Passmann DC supply system and I'm definitly happy with it, as my MTL and AZL locos are able to steadily crawl at a scale walking man speed, even slower... http://www.passmann.com Dom
Thanks for the opinions, I'm glad that the Märklin is not "state of the art". JoeS: Manfred Jörger Is there a problem with ordering direct from the Jörger shop? I take it you have to provide a chassis or build the Jörger controller into a panel? Passmann looks cool too! Thanks for the help, it's appreciated. Komodo
Has anyone ever heard anything about this controller? Looks interesting and the price is very reasonable! HAND HELD THROTTLE
Varipulse throttle The guy who makes these lives about 10 miles from me. Everyone I know including Z-gauge users seem pleased with the product. Specify Z-gauge when ordering. cheerz Garth
I ordered mine when Ztrack had a supply years back so I am not sure. What simply floored me was the ability to make small steam run at a constant slow speed. Everything else I've tried from marklin, to MRC, to Zthek, just cannot duplicate that smooth slow constant speed. I built mine into the layout istelf. So I suppose you would have to build your own controller to hold it in your hand. /
The Vari-Pulse requires 12-16VAC to run and is only a 120HZ controller, virtually the same principle as "pulse Power" we had in the 70's. The Joerger is more advanced, as is Zthek's. Zthek is available from ZScaleMonster and Ztrack Center. .
Thanks for the additional info and recommendations! I have (in the interest of supporting "local") ordered one of the throttles seen here: HAND HELD THROTTLE It seems that the performance should be far better than what I'm used to from the Märklin power packs. Next time I'm in Germany I shall have to pick up a Jörger or Passmann! regards, Komodo
I've seen the MTL/MRC 1300 priced for as little as $30. Not fancy but it does the job. It appears MRC has a new Tech 6 line of DC controllers. They may have something new rated as 1amp. It could be used for the sound equipped loco in the larger scales. DIGITAL PULL METER New at MicroMark is a device to measure the drawbar pull of model locos. Would anyone want to try a Z Motor Pull?
I got one of the meters for use more in measuring long train drag. It comes with no instructions. To change the scale, there is a small hole in the back. Push it while powering up to change to grams, Oz. etc. With noticeably heavy drag long trains, I placed the scale on a low-rider flat car and began to pull at obviously heavy inertia. Nada on the reading, grams or Oz. I need to hook it up to the new locos tonite. I made a think sheet of styrene to a coupler but if you really want to work right, I think it needs a coupler truck attached to it. .
Controllers Hi Komodo, The Joerger is one fine controller. I got one for years and I like it a lot. It is called Fahrregler de luxe, not to be confused with the (battery controlled) <Fahrregler fur das Marklin fun set>. Be sure to order the Polwendeschalter (double slip switch) while you´re at it. It is fairly easy to build it into a controller board or in a handheld box. I once met an older feller who built it into a nice little wooden cigarbox :mcool: Since I am a non-smooker, I used a polystyrene box... smile: Seems it was hard to order for a while, but take a look at his webshop, its back on the menu. http://www.system-joerger.de/shop/index.php?cPath=15 Joerger ships internationally... Matt
My MRC 1300 modified by MTL failed on me last night. I lost all throttle control and my locomotive ran away at full throttle (it appeared to be at 12V too!). I got the locomotive off the rails fairly quickly so I hope there isn't any damage. Anyone else experience this? It's going back to MTL for a new one. Todd
I am in N scale not Z but have one of Ken's throttles. http://www3.sympatico.ca/kstapleton3/851.HTM Over a year now and no problems.
Todd, for short burst, it should be ok. Jeff tested the engine at higher voltage then that without damage. I use to use the MRC 1300 for over two year, and never have a problem. I still use one on my test track.
