Large Scale Central

Fixing a LGB transformer?

Problem Solving
#1

I use a LGB 5003/110 transformer to run my main yard and to power a LGB switch box for 4 electric switches.

I have pins on the wires that fit into the electrical connectors on the back so I can quickly plug and unplug this transformer for when I’m not running trains. Yesterday I went to put the plugs in the spring loaded terminals on the back and 2 had lost their spring?

How does this thing come apart? It looks like there are 2 little nubs on each side which I tried prying underneath but I felt I was doing damage to the casing. I did remove the throttle dial and it is still not letting me in. I don’t see any screws holding it together.

How does this thing come apart?

#2

I may be wrong, but I thought the cases on these were riveted together, you might have to drill them out.

Someone here will know for sure.

Greg

#3

Oh no I hope it is not riveted together. I wonder if I can pop out the terminals without taking the transformer apart? I also wonder what happened to the springs in there. I don’t think they burnt up because the transformer still works if I hold the wires in the terminals.

It is odd that they both gave out together.

#4

The 4 plugs are like the automotive ones and do not come out easily.

I drill them out and then I use a large short screw to put them back together.

You will find there is a piece of plastic inside that broke for the spring to work and I would suggest you add a cable and 4 pin connector to this power pack for the future and it will be even easier to plug it in.

A great 4 pin connector is available at Walmart for trailer hook ups and is keyed to plug in only one way plus the wires are a good size (read strong).

#5

Thanks Dan. I did just what you said to do and now my little transformer is working again.

#6

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#7

You will have to use your imagination on this one Sean. Imagine a LGB transformer with a hole drilled in the back and 4 wires going in and the ends being soldered to the terminals in there. The 4 wires about 7" long now wrapped in black tape lead to a 4 pin trailer harness that connects to the other end of the trailer harness and to the wiring in my main train yard.

Thanks again Dan.