Lgb Mts Need More Power

[markrussell1966]

Hi I need to increase the power on my current LGB MTS system. What is the best and most cost effective way of doing it? I think my love of large US and German loco's means that I easily max out the 5 amps now and it keeps tripping out!!! Guess I probably need around 10 amps.
Thanks,
Mark

 

[Zerogee]

If the heavy power requirement can be spread across two or more zones of the layout, then you can use a booster unit; if you need all 10 amps in one place on the track and at one time, eg: multiple-heading big locos with smoke, sound and lots of lights, then the only real option is to invest in a more powerful system like a 12-amp Massoth setup.....

Jon.

 

[Neil Robinson]

If the heavy power requirement can be spread across two or more zones of the layout, then you can use a booster unit; if you need all 10 amps in one place on the track and at one time, eg: multiple-heading big locos with smoke, sound and lots of lights, then the only real option is to invest in a more powerful system like a 12-amp Massoth setup.....

Jon.

Most things digital are out of my comfort zone, but I get the impression that LGB MTS is beginning to show its age and has limitations with modern, e.g. LGB/Marklin, decoders. I also suspect that LGB MTS equipment still has some value that will probably decrease with time.
If so now may be a good time to sell your MTS to part fund a Massoth or another modern more powerful system.

 

[Greg Elmassian]

I have the new Zimo MX10, and it has 2 outputs 12 amps and 8 amps, and you can strap these together for a single 20 amp circuit. I ran NCE before, and was running out of amperage, I have several trains that pull about 10 amps (long trains, steep grades).

Greg

 

[stockers]

I run the Massoth 12 amp unit and thoroughly recommend it. Not cheap - but it does what it says on the tin! The 'Navigator' unit is a joy after the old red LGB things.
That said, if your running LGB/MTS 3, you could look for a second hand booster.

 

[adverse camber]

LGB is always limited by the 5 amp maximum which is dictated by its being a "Toy". I started out with MTS and ended up with 2 boosters before moving over to Massoth. The 12 amps from that kept me going for a decade before I had to get a 12 amp booster for that too, and I am now looking for a second (though they are hard to find as Massoth has discontinued them and not bought out the replacement) but has otherwise been very reliable and great radio control with the Navigators.
If you are likely to continue to expand I would cut your losses with LGB. if one 5 amp booster is all you can ever see yourself needing then they come up second hand quite regularly (try Glendale junction).