Hi
I am in the midst of buying various items in Z scale to work towards some sort of layout.
As I posted previously, I am hoping to run at least two trains.
I have the Marklin starter set as the basis of the project.
It includes a transformer which would be fine for one train.
I belong to a HO model railroad club and we get all kinds of donations for our flea market including new in the box transformers.
I could buy one these on the cheap.
If I am to understand, Marklin operates up to a 9 volt range.
Could I use an alternate transformer and just put a VOM on to measure up to 9 volts and then make a stop of some sort to not go past that mark on the throttle.
I am coming to the realisation that Z gauge is expensive and don't want to spend a $100.00 US for a second Marklin transformer.
Thanks for your time.

Hello. Hope all is well.

Sooner or later you will find a controller at the price you are comfortable with. I have seen the new Marklin one for less than $100. The older blue one is also cheaper and still does a good job. These both have terminals to connect lights or switches. I don’t know what type of connections are on the other controllers.

You might consider purchasing a starter set and for a few dollars more get the transformer , track as well as locomotive and rolling stock. Sometimes sellers are not aware of what they are selling on eBay and have set a low price. Your challenge is to recognize a good deal when you see one. You may have to watch for a time but I have discovered it eventually will show up.

While I am telling you there a some good values out there they are just not seen that often. Sellers believe their Marklin Z items are gold right now. This is unfortunate for someone just starting out. All I can say is just wait a bit and the analog controller may lose value as digital conversions take place more and more.

I hope this helps. Wish you all the best. Take good care

Zme

Hello again

Unless a vendor has old stock, it is possible you will not find one from this source. I have heard the transformers with that attached power cord work better.

I believe you will have better luck in the secondary market. I have few options where I am so use eBay perhaps more than I would like. I know there is a certain risk with this but sometimes users are switching to digital and they are getting rid of the old stuff. You never know, but deciding you would only buy from a first hand vendor might not work out. I have seen transformers on eBay fresh out of a starter set, not even used. I think it went for around $65. Shipping is usually an additional cost however.

Best price I found today from new item vendor was $80 + $10 for shipping. It is the new version. Let me know if you would like a link.

Just a thought. Happy hunting.

Zme

Edited by user 26 February 2024 02:29:35(UTC)  | Reason: Not specified

Hello, hope all is well

I think this one is for Marklin 1 guage.



Says it is 16 volt.

Here is the earlier version for Z :



Take good care.

Zme

Silicon diodes are cheap, as a stop gap you can use 12v controllers if you connect pairs of diodes in series with the output.
A pair would be two in parallel anode to cathode so current can pass in each direction. Each pair reduces the voltage by 0.6 volts so 4 pairs in series would reduce 12 volts to (4x0.6=2.4) 9.6volts.
ChrisG

You do not want this 6606 controller for Z scale if it is based on the 6600 shown here. I could not find specs for the 6606.