[Murv2]

I'm using Kato transformers and I have all old engines, including AHM diesels and Tyco and now Aristo Craft steam engines. The newest I have is a Bachmann 44 tonner of unknown age. Anyway, when I run two AHM diesels the breaker occasionally pops on the transformer, and I was running my new old teakettle engine (not the new one, an old lead one) and it blew the breaker too. Are new transformers less powerful than old ones and should I be looking for something else? I'm running DC.

 

[flyboy2610]

I would lean more towards your locomotives needing a good cleaning and motor overhaul. It sounds like they are drawing excessive amps.

 

[CTValleyRR]

I agree with flyboy. DC transformers are pretty much standardized at 0-16 VDC, no matter when they are made. The exception is that some which are designed for larger scales have a higher max output.

Give everything a good clean and lube and see if that helps.

 

[wvgca]

a clean and lube on the locos -probably- will help .... older transformers are not the issue, but older locos usually draw more amperage than newer ones, just the nature of the types of motors involved, older pitman style versus newer can type ..

 

[65446]

Testing

 

[Murv2]

I cleaned the teakettle and in runs well now. I'm going to have to figure out how to get to the brushes on the old diesel.