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 Posted - November 26 2013 : 1:23:04 PM
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Any suggestions for a "modern" power pack / transformer that will run both new (Bachmann Thomas) and old (Tyco/AHM/etc.) engines, accessories, etc. I've noticed that the "modern" Bachmann power pack that came with my son's Thomas HO set is fine for just running Thomas; BUT I see a definite loss of power when running older engines. I just run a simple Christmas tree circle and similar small layouts, so any suggestions on how to "power up" my engines would be much appreciated.
ArtSkull.com: Graphic Design & Illustration
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Posted - November 26 2013 : 3:02:52 PM
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The modern Bachmann train set power supplies have an output of 7 VA,That translates into 14volts at .5 amps. The older engines can pull .3 to .7 amps. I would try to find an MRC brand power supply that was rated for at least 14 VA track power. That is not total power, but track power.
A new MRC 9900 would be great but very expensive. With a little web research a suitable used unit could be found on Ebay or from one of the members on this site.
Regards, John ******************
"Fighter pukes make movies. Bomber pilots make... HISTORY!" <> Lt. Jake Grafton - Flight of the Intruder
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Posted - November 26 2013 : 8:55:44 PM
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Even old metal MRC power packs were very good, and still usable to this day. Ditch any Tyco or Bachmann transformer, they just can't carry the load. If you look on Ebay, you can often find cheap tranformers, even the Tech II which I use to this day, which is probably 20 years old, all plastic, but has good power, by MRC, model 2500.
Jerry
" When life throws you bananas...it's easy to slip up"
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Posted - November 26 2013 : 11:26:23 PM
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I'm currently using a pair of MRC RailPower 1370 transformers. They handle my old Athearn and Tyco engines great. One cost me $50 new and the other was found at a train show for $20. 
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Posted - November 27 2013 : 07:06:11 AM
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Thanks gentlemen! Looks like a MRC power pack is the way to go. Maybe I'll catch a black Friday sale on one.
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Posted - December 09 2013 : 12:33:28 PM
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Thank you fellow forum members for your help in narrowing my decision of power packs. For all the other novices and newbies looking to run both old and new HO engines, I'd recommend the MRC 1370 power pack. Combined with Bachmann EZ track, the MRC 1370 has run every engine I've put on the rails with no issue.
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