On my layout, I am adding a row of 10 operating accessories: nos. 164 log loader, 175 rocket launcher, 342 culvert loader, 345 culvert unloader, 352 ice depot, 397 coal loader, 445 switch tower, 456 coal ramp, 3356 horse car, and 3472 milk car. The voltage requirements will vary. I will have operating controls for each one. My two ZWs and KW are busy. What new transformer will I need? How can I wire it to have all accessories ready to go with the correct voltage for more than one visitor? – Robert Kirk, Westminster, Md.
I would assume you won’t have all these running at once, although they are “ready to go.” In that case, using only one or two at the same time, you can get away with a couple of lower-wattage transformers – say 75 to 100 watts each – set at two basic voltage ranges: 9-12 and 12-15.
The 12-15 volt range could accommodate your nos. 164, 397 and 456. The 9-12 volt range, your nos. 175, 342 and 345. The voltage levels of the nos. 352, 445 and 3356 are not critical and can be wired to either transformer. The no. 3472 usually uses track voltage.
However, if you want to run them all at once -a row of spectacular accessories all performing to impress your visitors – you’ll probably need something bigger, like a 150- to 250-watt transformer with several different throttles to manually adjust to the optimum voltage.
