Hello Group,

I am looking for a transformer to run some old Standard Gauge Lionel

and O gauge French JEP locos. Both require over 20V and the JEP may in

fact need 25V or more. I see this item on EBAY 6053546075. Is this

suitable? If not any suggestions?

Many thanks,

Dave Argent

Dave,

NO!

You should try to obtain a transformer that has a capacity of at least

100 watts and a maximum voltage output of at least 25 volts.

Then, of course, you will have to get one that matches your household

voltage. USA typically 120 volts 60 hertz. Britain is typically 220

volts and 50 hertz.

Ron Morris

As Ron pointed out, nix on the eBay offering. It is  not even in the same

league for what you want. I use a pre-war Lionel Z  transformer for my high

voltage starts. It is rated at 250 watts and 24 volts. I  have also used a ZW

(275 Watts, 18-20 volts) in a pinch, but that sometimes  necessitates helping the

loco along until it gets rolling.

Glenn Harris

Dave,

If you can come across an pre-war Alderman B transformer, in decent

shape, it'll well suit your needs.

Ron Morris

A couple of weeks ago I called on an old friend and as I was

leaving he gave me a pre-war Lionel `J` transformer. 100 watt. I must

say I am very pleased with it!   For example a normally sluggish

Hornby EM320 loco will take off like a scalded cat!    It has three

possibilities for voltage to the track, depending on where the track

leads are plugged in -13 volts, 19 volts, 25 volts, with of course

normal throttle control up to these voltages as well.  Ran my sole

Standard Gauge loco & train today - required the low setting only.

      Interesting point is that it can be connected to any mains

voltage between 90 and 250, so suitable for worldwide use.  Cycles

from 40 to 133!  I don't really understand all that but I do

understand that my trains of various makes love it!  Hornby 6volt,

Unique Art, Sakai, - all types.  Going to try a high voltage

Metropolitan soon.

Colin Duthie

Colin,

Would you please provide a photo of this transformer. It is a 'rare'

beastie. Currently authorities say it wasn't made, but the fact that

you have one belies that statement.

Ron Morris

Sure, will take photos.  But don't have a digital camera, only a

`steam` powered one, so will be a few days.

     This transformer is mentioned in the instruction book for the

265E set that I have, dated 1938.   That set came to NZ with no

transformer, the original set owner having a transformer made up

here. I still use that one too!  Incidentally on the instructions for

the set it has written on it `Commercial Attaché,   USA Embassy,

Wellington`.  However all this has nothing to do with the Model J

transformer.

Colin

I have now managed to put the transformer on my scanner

(carefully!) and scanned the plate on the side.   This can now can be

seen in the Photos section under my name.

    Ron - Do you still want a general photo of the entire transformer?

I can arrange this OK in a few days time.

Colin Duthie

I'd recommend Lionel  Type Rs.  Cheap, compact and has a circuit breaker. Puts

out 24 volts in two ranges: 0 - 16 and 14-24.  You can also use the higher wattage

Types V and Z ,but they are bigger and much heavier.

Lew Schneider

I would just comment for the UK that both the R and Z were made in 220/240

volt versions which do materialise from time to time.

Tony Stanford