in the newer Bachman or Life Like single oval systems they supply a small plastic Transformer Controller combo. Is there any advantage to substituting a Tyco Transformer ? Or an aftermarket Controller. Would it provide more power?
Country: USA ~
Posts: 6 ~
Member Since: October 27 2009 ~
Last Visit: July 21 2012
I'd say yes but I got 2 atm & don't need them I salready got 2 nice controllers already One's Tyco the other is MRC RailPower 1100 can be used for HO N or Z sets Such as Tyco(lol) Athern Lifelike AHM Bachmann & others
Country: USA ~
Posts: 14923 ~
Member Since: February 23 2009 ~
Last Visit: August 22 2025
Dump them...always upgrade when you can, DCC has made it a great market to find really good deals on quality used transformers. I prefer MRC Golden packs, though my Hammant & Morgan "Duette" made for the American market in the mid '60s is a rising star.
Posts: 2465 ~
Member Since: April 15 2007 ~
Last Visit: December 01 2023
Dump them...always upgrade when you can, DCC has made it a great market to find really good deals on quality used transformers. I prefer MRC Golden packs, though my Hammant & Morgan "Duette" made for the American market in the mid '60s is a rising star.
Originally posted by shaygetz-October 29 2009: 9:27:24 PM
Yep, most power packs, especially those from older sets aren't really the greatest. I use 'em for powering lights in buildings.
If you are really serious about running a layout, MRC offers a good range from starter packs to really nice professional models. Like shaygetz said though, even some better used controllers can be an excellent choice as well. - Matt -
Country: Canada ~
Posts: 1021 ~
Member Since: August 24 2008 ~
Last Visit: January 05 2020
I too second Shaygetz - Don't use old original transformers but keep them and use for lighting structures and accessories as MM said. When running Tyco too - they perform better on nickel silver over tru-steel and brass track
Country: USA ~
Posts: 2507 ~
Member Since: January 31 2006 ~
Last Visit: October 21 2017
I'm very fond of my 1990's era MRC Tech II 2500. You can get them on ebay for 10-20 bucks if you shop around. It's got a momentum and brake feature so you can get slow, steady starts and stops.
Country: USA ~
Posts: 1166 ~
Member Since: October 18 2009 ~
Last Visit: December 23 2018