Phasing Transformers

[cclark]

I have heard it is not good to phase modern transformers (like the CW80) with post war transformers (like the zw). I have also heard you can phase them as long as they only share a common ground, but can never back feed (modern trans for accessories only and zw for trains only). Greenberg mentions no phasing don'ts (implying all transformers are fair game). Finally I have heard different thoughts on combining accessories with trains (common ground vs separate). Let the debate begin.

[cwarfel]

Interesting question. I've only ever phased CW80's with other CW80's or with an MTH Z1000. Haven't tried it with a modern transformer and a postwar ZW.

[wmwalker]

I had to phase two of my 180 bricks. When I measured the voltage between the two main lines it was out of site. :eek: But after I got all 4 bricks in phase everything was correct on voltage. :)

I use a MRC 250 watt supply for my switches and all my houses and buildings are Dept 56 so they are lighted by 110volts.

[rbigliardi]

I always phased all transformers with grounds tied together with no problem (but all my loops are separate with no blocks on the same loop using different transformers). I have used Lionel 1033, 4045 CW80s, ZW's, and MTH 75 Watts. I even have a Tyco HO transformer and 3V DC adapter thrown in for good measure. Don't know if you could get in trouble if you tied both track outputs of the CW80 to the ZW, and then drove the track with the ZW (as in the case of a train crossing blocks powerer by 2 different transformers). I have connected a CW80 to the track locally, and left the ZW connected at 0 volts, and used the CW80 to drive the track with no problem (rot troubleshooting problems at remote locations).

I am using 18 V Wheat bulbs for all of the Ceramic houses. I didn't like having a lot of 110 under the layout. I get into enough trouble as it is :)

[rick486]

What's your source for the 18v wheat bulbs? That would save me from having a 20vAC to 1.5vDC rectifier board in the engine.

Rich

[rbigliardi]

Hobby Lobby had a pack for use with HO houses. I think it was a dozen or so, and they have a base with double sided tape. Watch for the 40% off cupon and you can get them really cheap. (Come to think of it, I need to look for another pack, since I paid full price). Radio Shack and Hobby Town both carry them if your looking for smaller quantities. I think Hobby Town had a little better price than Radio Shack

[tbrook]

You have to phase all transformers on your layout, post war and modern. First you need to plug in all of your modern transformers as they have the large spade on the ground side of the plug so you cannot make a wall connection error. Next you have to hope and pray that the manufacturer phased all of these modern transformers correctly. Watch out for thoses early Lionel CW-80's. Now you can start plugging in, one transformer at a time, the post war transformers that do not have the polarized plugs and check to make sure they are in phase. All of the transformers grounds should be tied together. It is also a good idea to mark the ground side of the plug so you can identify which is the ground side if you should need to unplug the transformers with unpolarized plugs for any reason.

[rick486]

I'm going to have three separate loops for my Christmas layout (two trains per loop). Last year I ran 4 trains on 2 loops just fine with a ZW (2 bricks). With the third loop added this year, I wanted to use an old CW-80 to power it but use the common outside rail (U) from the ZW to go to the third loop to avoid buying another TMCC box. Can I run the two "U's" from the ZW and CW-80 together on the third loop with the "hot" wire "A" from the CW going to the middle rail of the third loop..

Donno if this makes sense or not, if not I can post a diagram.

Rich

[tbrook]

Rich,

In short, YES, your thinking is correct. When you state that you are using a ZW you need to make it clear if this is the old ZW or the modern electronic ZW.

If you are using an Old ZW, make sure the ZW is in phase with the CW-80, if it is not turn the ZW's power cord around.

If you are using a modern ZW, the power cord can only plug in one way and it will be in phase - unless, Lionel has incorrectly phased the wires intenally in a transformer. Hopefully you know how to test for correct/incorrect phasing.