So, I have been looking at power packs for Z-scale and the inexpensive one that shows up quite often is the MRC 1300 that is "modified" for Z-scale. Is this really modified or just a sticker put on the face? I know that you don't want to go over 8 or 9 volts for Z scale locos, but couldn't a person just put a stop of some sort on an MRC Tech 4 220 or something like that? Again, thanks for the advice and help.
It is really modified by Micro-Trains and yes, you could put a stop on an unmodified power unit. As an alternative, you could use a MRC Universal Voltage Reducer (AT880) so you don't have to worry about someone forgetting the stop. http://modelrectifier.com/search/product-view.asp?ID=1261
Dave, I have taken the 1300 modified power pack apart and it is indeed physically modified. MTL installed a mechanical block to prevent the dial from going past a certain point. These are good power packs for Z scale.
Hi Loren: At what setting did they put the mechanical stop? And, what is the voltage with and without load? Load being, with how many locos. Thanks.
The stop is at about the 2 o clock position. I never measured the voltage, but from experience as many will tell you, you can run a slew of locos on the one power pack at just about any setting. The MRC is a great little work horse. You can't go wrong with it.
Look for the 1300 on the MRC webpage. Apparently they are out of stock at the factory till they can make more. MRC describes the throttle with a 300 deg controller. They don't advertise what the full output may be. The MTL modified unit limits movement to about 180 deg. Volts should be limited to 10v max. The label has clear marks for the 8volt Marklin & 9volt MTL/AZL trains. Using other controlers opens the risk of more voltage escaping the unit & frying motors. Engines are too expensive to have motors fried so easily!
Has anyone fried a motor yet ? Outside of well worn brushes in a Mäklin or, a long unattended stuck loco under a big load, I have yet to see (or hear) about a motor frying from exceeding 9.000 volts. Folks, it really isn't that critical. My white Mäklin power pack puts put nearly 14v peak (unloaded) and can easily put out more than 10 volts with any loco on the track. As a reminder, nearly every DCC powered loco is CONSTANTLY hit with 12-14 volt pulses, many running nearly 100% duty cycle (Speed step 28) so essentially running way over voltage for hours at a time at shows. Relax with the voltage rating. More importantly, be aware if your loco is not running properly or severely overloaded (MTL Husky/Gundersuns or 30 cars on a Märklin), you are going to be inclined to turn up the voltage until it runs the speed you want. They will survive but a Märklin is going to have its motor life shortened from brush arcing. Please, just run your trains and have fun. Clean your trucks and wheels and lube the locos after 100 hours or so of running time, like the manufacturer states. .
