ZW 275 REBUILD Thread

[GazooRC]

Before I start, I know there's tons of convos on this already. I don't want to debate about what's the best practice and whether this is a good idea or not. This is more of a build thread.
OK, so with that in mine, I just purchased a ZW 275 off Ebay. (I can feel the cringing from here) This one appears to be in great shape. It is showing 24.7v across each terminal. I still want to take it apart and re wire it. I'm going to be using this in conjunction with my CAB1 remote. This is definitely going to be overkill for my 1 track layout but I like the nostalgia aspect of having a post war transformer.
Anyways I will be adding a couple tvs between the transformer and the track. I also want to add a fast acting breaker. Since I will be using modern engines I'm not relying on the internal breaker in the ZW.

tvs will be 1.5KE33CA
I'm thinking something like this for a breaker

The ZA shows it will be here Friday. I'm excited for another project and cant wait to get this bad boy ripped open. Pictures to come.

 

[Bruette]

I would use the Lionel TMCC Direct Lock-on

It was designed to work with the Powerhouse Power supply can be adapted to use with your ZW or any suitable transformer

https://www.lionel.com/products/tmcc-direct-lockon-6-34120/

 

[GazooRC]

I would use the Lionel TMCC Direct Lock-on

It was designed to work with the Powerhouse Power supply can be adapted to use with your ZW or any suitable transformer

View attachment 205544

https://www.lionel.com/products/tmcc-direct-lockon-6-34120/

From what I’m reading the lock on is basically just a fancy breaker. I’m going to use a breaker in line but for a fraction of the price and size. I’m also going to use the tvs to help with any unforeseen voltage spikes. A little more work but same concept.

 

[Bruette]

Nate, that is more than necessary in my mind. But you can't be too safe, and overkill is your trademark. It's only overkill as far as work goes, the prices are great! I'm always looking for the easiest solution.

You might find that 5-Amps are not enough, especially with lighted passenger cars and if you add accessories. The Iron Horsemen told us he was unable to use a CW-80 (approximately 5-Amps) transformer to run his Legacy Scale Polar Express due to insufficient power. If the 5-Amps are enough to power your Big Boy and passenger cars, you can always use an additional inexpensive transformer to power any accessories you might add.

Well done sir!

 

[GazooRC]

Nate, that is more than necessary in my mind. But you can't be too safe, and overkill is your trademark. It's only overkill as far as work goes, the prices are great! I'm always looking for the easiest solution.

You might find that 5-Amps are not enough, especially with lighted passenger cars and if you add accessories. The Iron Horsemen told us he was unable to use a CW-80 (approximately 5-Amps) transformer to run his Legacy Scale Polar Express due to insufficient power. If the 5-Amps are enough to power your Big Boy and passenger cars, you can always use an additional inexpensive transformer to power any accessories you might add.

Well done sir!

Haha yea you got me there.
Well the lock on is still in my car so I might just do that too.

 

[GazooRC]

Well it showed up today. It doesn’t look that bad. Needs a new roller on the main armature but all things considered not bad.

 

[Bruette]

You found a real bargain!