I just picked up yet another transformer!
This time, it’s a fully refurbished Lionel 150-watt Type-VW Multi-Control Trainmaster Transformer from 1948–1949. It was replaced in 1950 by the Lionel 190-watt KW Transformer which was more powerful and cheaper to make. In 1950 the ZW was upgraded to 275-watts.
Even in 1950, American manufacturers were looking for ways to cut costs. I wouldn’t say they were making things better, even with the extra 40 or 25 watts, because the original VW and ZW (1948,1949) were built like tanks! That’s why I ended up buying one of each!
Like the ZW, the VW can run four separate trains on four variable voltage circuits, with whistle and directional control on two of them. It first appeared in the 1948 Lionel Electronic Set, and as far as I know, it was never sold separately; making it a rare find indeed. I only paid $114.11!
Front (From Bing Photos)
Back panel (From Bing Photos)
To my horror, when I brought the box in from the front porch, it had a gaping hole in the side - WTF! Upon opening it, I found the left-hand outer control handle snapped clean off, thanks to some careless USPS worker.
Thankfully, a quick bench test revealed no binding or out-of-round issues in the control shaft. The sine wave and output voltages were perfect under a load, and like the ZW-250, it runs as quiet as a church mouse. No internal damage was done.
(built like a tank!) Now the search begins for an original left-hand outer control handle with red lettering. Luckily it is the same control handle used for early ZWs. Which are not too hard to find. They even have the same part number ZW-99.
After letting the seller know, he asked what it would take for me to keep it as is. Honestly, I wouldn’t part with this rare beauty. I requested $20 (I like to be fair) and suggested he avoid using USPS for such delicate antiques. He quickly agreed and sent me a refund of $21.04. I’m confident I can find a replacement for less than that. And it should be 5-miutes job to replace the handle.
Aside from the faded red lettering on the outer control handles, this VW is as cosmetically pristine as a 75+ year-old antique can be. Honestly, I had thought to replace both outer control handles anyway, and once that’s done, this classic VW will look and operate just like new!
With some modern circuit protection added, these old transformers can easily power any modern or old AC locomotive or accessory.
FYI: All prices include sales tax and shipping. I must pay them, so they should be included.
www.lionel.com
