ZW transformer.275 0r 250 and is it a Rwmv

[@rennethjarrett4580]

VW was 150 watt with a smaller circle on the top, and rating and spec on a plate on the side with the output terminals. ZW 250 watt looked the same as the 150 but higher ratings on the spec plate. I just figured this out from picture of transformer models on the web, and I did have a VW as a kid for several years. However if someone replaced that top cover, my only safe guess would be to check the ohms on the windings and compare them to one of the other that you know are the 275 or the 250 or the 150 version.

[@TheStrodude]

Also, that K-Line manual propped up on your workbench details some of the design differences between the R and non-R models and has a schematic (even though I've found at least 1 error in it).

[@TheStrodude]

The transformer in the video is a ZW. You can tell this because the laminations are much wider than they would be on a VW (250w). This is also an earlier model (not a Type R). You can tell this because the laminations have air gaps between them on the middle third of the structure. Also, the whistle controller assemblies are held down by two screws each. As a previous poster indicated, you can also tell by the voltage present at the bulb sockets.

[@rennethjarrett4580]

VW was 150 watt with a smaller circle on the top, and rating and spec on a plate on the side with the output terminals. ZW 250 watt looked the same as the 150 but higher ratings on the spec plate. I just figured this out from picture of transformer models on the web, and I did have a VW as a kid for several years.

[@fiddlerpin]

VW was only 150 watt and you can tell a VW buy the red ID plate on the front. The top plate on a ZW 250 watt was just a small L plate and the ID plate on side says 250 watts.

[@andy41417]

revised zw does not have white resistor wire to bulbs. Wire colors are different too. Check book.

[@michaelcoats378]

Good Day How many dual motor screen top F3s can be run on one postwar ZW275 transformer? I can run two but a third one will trip the circuit breaker.... Bye for now

[@lionelscout]

You can tell if it is a Model R by the light bulbs. The older ones have 6 volt bulbs (L51). The newer R model uses 18 volt bulbs (L1445). No bulbs? Check voltage at lamp bracket. Also, most R models are so stamped on the base.

[@XYtruck25]

You have a ZW. its a 275 watt The top of the cover has a sticker. You can order a sticker thru olsen toy train parts. Can you tell me how to install new rollers? I bought one on ebay and its missing one roller.

[@jockellis]

What is a RWMV? I have a 1949 250 and a ‘50s 275.

[@w.rustylane5650]

R is the model type. WMV is the video file he uses for the video.

[@fiddlerpin]

If you don’t know what your doing you should not attempt working on these. They can catch on fire.

[@davidjones9641]

both the 250 and the 275 watt were 275 watt. lionel legal issues forced them to mark it as a 250.same wattage marked different.