Powering Your Layout With The Cw-80 Transformer; Troubleshooting - Lionel CW-80 Transformer Owner's Manual

Powering your layout with the CW-80 Transformer

Y
our CW-80 Transformer provides a total output of five amps. The track outputs will deliver
all of this power to the track when no accessories are connected to the Transformer. Keep
in mind that connected accessories borrow some of this power. For example, if the accessories
require two amps of the total five-amp capacity of the Transformer, you have three amps
available for track power. This built-in flexibility will provide power for virtually any small-
to medium-sized railroad. Also, available voltage depends on how much load is on the two
outputs. Generally, track voltage and accessory voltage are 0-16 volts (AC) each.
This Transformer is capable of operating trains up to and including dual-motored
AC engines. To operate at this level of track power, it may be necessary to disconnect any
accessories. You may also want to attempt to lower the accessory voltage settings. Refer to the
"Setting the accessory output" section.
You may momentarily approach or exceed the five-amp limit of the CW-80 Transformer
when pulling illuminated cars, fighting over grades with heavy loads, or operating accessories.
When you reach five amps, the green light on the Controller will begin to flash. This
indicates that the Transformer is in "fold-back mode." In fold-back mode, the Transformer
is automatically reducing, or folding back, power. This gradual reduction in power provides
interruption-free power while bringing the amperage back down to a safe level.

Troubleshooting

No lights or operation
Be sure CW-80 Transformer is plugged in.
Train runs, but WHISTLE/HORN, BELL, and DIRECTION buttons do not work
Check track connections. The track must be connected to the "A" and "U" terminals on the
Transformer.
No change when DIRECTION button is pressed
Be sure that your locomotive reverse unit switch is ON.
Accessory operation is intermittent or absent
Check for loose, shorted, or improper connections. The accessory output voltage may have
been set too low for the accessory. Refer to page 9 and reset the voltage to a higher level.
Locomotive runs slowly or lights dim at the far end of the track
On larger layouts, additional track resistance may cause a voltage drop. Attach additional
Lockons to the remote portion of your track.
Green light begins to flash
The power limit of the Transformer has been exceeded. The unit will gradually reduce power
until the problem is corrected.
Bell button blows whistle
Switch the wire connections at the Lockon or Controller Terminals. Be sure that the U post is
connected to the outside rail and the A post is connected to the inside rail.
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