AC to DC

[VoidZero]

I have an OLD OLD Lionel train master transformer.
It puts out about 25 volts AC, the only problem is I have an HO train set and I would like to utilize the transformer for it but it puts out AC and not DC. Does anyone know how I could convert it?

Thank You.

 

[roryglasgow]

You'd have to find a rectifier or transformer of some kind, but I don't know where to start. But if you have to buy something to convert from AC to DC, why not just go ahead and buy a new DC power pack?

Check out www.modelrec.com. They sell a wide variety of very good power packs.

-Rory

 

[VoidZero]

I would buy a new DC transformer but I have an old Gilbert Smoker that NEEDS 18 Volts DC (trackpower) to work. I have yet to find a CHEAP (or reasonable) HO transformer that is capable of putting out sufficient voltage.

 

[roryglasgow]

But I think that 18 VDC would burn up the motor in any HO-scale model. I think that they are designed for a max of 12 VDC, and that's only for relatively short periods...

I don't know this for sure, though. I see that Trainworld has HO-scale smoke generators that operate at 16 VDC: http://www.trainworld.com/seuthe/index.html

-Rory

 

[VoidZero]

Well, I know that it needs about 18 VDC. Because I borrowed a friends G Scale transformer and it ran for a long period of time (and smoked great ) on 18VDC.


Thank You for your input.

 

[TR-Flyer]

Dear Voidzero:
Did you know that ACG made a "rectiformer" to convert one of their AC transformers to DC for use with their DC "S" gauge equipment? Check out the Yahoo groups "S-List" and see if someone there knows about it. There may be info online about how to build one of these things.

Regards,
Ted

 

[billk]

If my memory serves (quite often it doesn't anymore) what you need to convert AC to DC is called a bridge (?) rectifier, and you need four diodes to make one.

It isn't too complicated. If you have a Radio Shack nearby, they should have the parts and plans. (Ask the geek with pimples, not the manager!)

 

[Pitchwife]

In answer to your question I put together this simple diagram. If I can figure out how to attach it I hope that it helps.

 

[60103]

Radio Shack carries bridge rectifiers already made up -- square lump of plastic with 4 wires coming out but I don't know the ratings. They're usually rated in some totally useless combination of units, say, 200 milliamps at 600 Volts. I bought one but haven't found a use for it yet. At one point there were a number of firms that made rectifier units; I have a H&M one that I use for my Tortoise switch motors.

 

[Pitchwife]

Another reason that buying the individual parts and a little light soldering can pay off. You know just what you're getting.