Digging into the Lionel ZW Transformer and Replacing the Power Cord

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2 жыл бұрын

Ever wonder what is inside your treasured Lionel ZW transformer? Take a look at how the annual maintenance and certification program required replacing the power cord in the unit. Explanation is provided for the transformer workings. Train Books are available for purchase at www.ChooChooVille.com

Пікірлер: 5

@Deadbuck73 2 жыл бұрын

When I bought my zw I was able to replace the rollers, the power cord, the internal circuit breaker, and the whistle diodes. It was a great tune up and it’s ready for another 70 years! I don’t have a big layout and run mostly post war with it… there’s no issues! Thank You for your videos!

@kensbackshop6399 2 жыл бұрын

The best transformer lionel ever made,,,no china crap here,,,,thanks for sharing,,Ken

@lionelprewar-postwara-aron8630 2 жыл бұрын

I love my 275 watt. I’m having issues with only my prewar whistle tenders able to work properly but my postwar whistle tenders do not whistle for some reason. Any idea what may be causing this issue?

@ChooChooVille 2 жыл бұрын

From a personal perspective, I have not had a problem with the whistle on any vintage of Lionel Tender. Here are a couple of things I would review in troubleshooting: 1. Try the whistle control on the other side of your ZW in case one side is marginal in the DC portion of output voltage (about 1/2 to 1 volt). 2. Remove the cover from your postwar tender and observe the DC relay to determine if it closes or attempts to close. If you can see the relay's flat armature move when you call for the whistle, then perhaps the contacts need some burnishing. 3. Manually close the contacts on the DC relay and see if the impeller tries to turn. Perhaps the brushes are dirty or its armature is frozen. Note that you should use an insulated/wooden tool when poking around inside the whistle.

@lionelprewar-postwara-aron8630 2 жыл бұрын

@@ChooChooVille found it! The wires were broken off at the trucks and I never noticed. 😩🤦🏻‍♂️ ended up both tenders I had, had the same issue. Now they work decent.