[Bull6791]

I have one ready to run set. It’s the Polar Express. The ready to run set comes with its own power supply or called a wall wart for that train. If i expand my layout and add 2 more ready to run sets what do you use for power supply for all 3 ready to run sets.
Would I use all 3 ready to run power supply’s/ wall worts that each set came with
How would you power up a layout with 3 lion chief ready to run sets.
All I have is the polar express rtr set and looking for ideas on best way to add more trains. Don’t know what power supply to use when adding more trains. Thanks.

 

[seayakbill]

Will you be operating more than one set at the same time on the same main line ? Multiple locos running at the same time with power coming from 1 wallwart will most likely cause an overload condition. You will need to get a larger transformer in that scenario.

Bill

 

[Norton]

Seems there are only a few choices in modern mid level transformers but Lionel has a couple of choices that should work. You can either get one of their 180 watt bricks (AKA Powerhouse), basically just a fixed transformer with a fast circuit breaker, or Lionel also now has the GW 180 which adds a voltage controller to that brick.
There are many more choices in vintage transformers but when running modern trains with electronics you would want to add fast breakers to them. That combination would likely end up costing nearly the same by the time you are done.
Bottom line I think you should be looking at transformers with at least 175 watts of power.
Lots of sales going on this weekend. Good time to pick up something.

Pete

 

[seayakbill]

Another option would be the MTH 100 watt transformer with controler. Catalog list is $130 but you should be able to get a better deal from most of the large train vendors.

Bill

 

[Bull6791]

Since I have one ready to run set right now which is powered by the wall wort power supply it came with if I expand my layout with 2 more ready to run sets I would want to get a transformer and put all 3 train sets on the transformer. That is if I understand it correctly.
Would or could I have a layout with 3 ready to run set each powered by their own power supply that they came with. Use no transformer and just use 3 wall warts that each of the rtr sets came with. Yes or no and why. I am new to trains. Thanks.

 

[gunrunnerjohn]

You have two threads going with the same question, answered in the other thread.

LION CHEIF TRAIN QUESTION