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Lionel ZW Transformer Problem
Daniel writes:
“My Lionel ZW Transformer is acting strange. One day, it is working fine. When I turned it on the next day, I had no track power and shorting out. I checked all track and found no obvious causes with the Z shirts hooked up or not. I switched the euro to another Z and the system is fine. Therefore it seems just to be the transformer. What is the best troubleshooting process? Thanks.”
2 Responses to Lionel ZW Transformer Problem
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The first thing to do before taking the transformer apart is to make sure that the mains plug is wired correctly and that none of the wires have worked loose giving intermittent contact, if OK then check the power cable, to do this you will need to take the top of the transformer with the plug disconnected from the mains. To check the cable you will need a meter with continuity settings, I am lucky enough to have a continuity pen type tester which you just move along the cable with the item to be tested plugged into the mains and item to be tested still in on piece, if the cable is OK disconnect from mains and take the top off transformer and check soldered joints are all intact and that the windings have not partially burnt out, if there is a strong smell of burning you’ve got problems! which I am not able to advise you on. I hope this has been of help to you , kindest regards John.
Check around with train friends, as to who can rebuild the ZW. I had all sorts of problems with mine, but a person was recommended to me, who fixed the ZW and installed a new power cord.
If you are running any electronic engines, I recommend an automotive 20 amp fuse holder between the track and the transformer. The ZW (also the KW and the TW) will not react fast enough to a short.
The electronic engines will be ruined, unless you have a fast reacting fuse. The automotive fuse holders are cheap at any auto supply dealer.