I am still trying to find out my problem of "lazy engine". At first, i thought my Lionel gp-38 "dual canned motor" engine is lazy but after more testing, i am beginning to suspect the CW 80 transformer. I just bought it brand new and installed on a fairly big track layout and wondering if 80 watts are enough?. There are no accessories on the acc, output, i run a single engine and even with "throttle all the way", no speed and power from the loco... Thanks again!.
If you bought the new CW80 from a real hobby store, take it back...it is defective. They will give you a new one. When I was "in the business", we took back probably 4 of every 7 or so CW80's, Lionel got to the point that they would send the store a new one to replace the one we would give the customer and all they wanted in return was just the power plug, they didn't want the defective CW...we threw them away. That inspires real "confidence" in the product. I would look for an older Lionel pack or maybe get another product altogether. There are several companies that make "Lionel" power packs, MRC is one and they work very well. Good luck.. Woodie
Not sure what fairly large is, in relation to layout size, but that transfomer is probably too small now. And if you add much, you'll not be happy as performance will drop off rather quickly. Boxcab E50
Boxcab is right, that is usually the transformer in the starter sets IIRC. I'd look for an MRC AC transformer meant for O gauge trains. I have one and it has served me well for the floor layouts I used to put up for my boys. They ran Williams diesels with it and usually 6 - 10 average freight cars. Greg
Thanks Gregg!!!. Bought an MRC Pure Power Dual AH 601 and problem solved!!!. 135 watts "per channels" , like a good old hi-fi amplifier, takes care of that!!!.
