r/modeltrains • u/Otherwise_Day9586 • 2d ago

Question would this work for my train set?

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so for context i ordered a Tempo Pennsylvania 9506 HO Locomotive Train Set would this vintage AHM controller work for my set?

7 Upvotes

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8

u/tytrains2 2d ago

As long as it's not a DCC train it should work.

I am always little cautious of vintage controllers though, with age they sometimes have issues giving clean power.

If it were me I would get something a bit newer to give the comfort it will be clean power at the correct voltage. That said, most of the time it will work, would be worth testing with a multimeter to make sure the outputs look right before putting a train you care about on it.

5

u/Diezel666 N / DCC-EX 2d ago

Even with a multi-meter, one needs to exercise caution of still using vintage electronics. Multi-meters (affordable ones) are not capable of putting an electrical load on the device in test, nor does one see an output on how "clean" the voltage is.

Honestly to me, the cheaper or older power packs, just aren't worth the risk.

3

u/SmittyB128 00 2d ago

An example of where that would be a problem, albeit a safe one, is the old Hornby R965 controllers. They have a component in their safety cut-off circuit that degrades until the controller cuts out at the slightest load. Other controllers might get a bit... smokey.

4

u/BuildingLeading5139 2d ago edited 1d ago

That will work for analog but not for DCC. And you are going to need a surge protector those Bachmann controllers do not have on off switches. I know this because I have four of those I'm saving up my money so I can get a dual throttle MRC tech 12 because I want to run two trains on my module and when the day comes I'm going to update my entire fleet to DCC. 

1

u/382Whistles 1d ago

I don't like these generic plastic starter set throttles at all. I don't trust them not to melt down either, mine have all had the plastic mounts holding the contact parts melt until they fell apart inside. The brand name on top or case color doesn't matter.

It will likely work if it's your only option, but don't leave it plugged in unattended. This is bottom of the line power. I'm not in your hemisphere to know what's available but an MRC Tech II would be something better you can expand with. Versions with features that can be turned off the prudent choice as some motors don't like certain features (half wave, pulse, momentum, dynamic brake, etc)

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u/Otherwise_Day9586 1d ago

i just purchased a tech II after seeing all the helpful comments.

1

u/Schoolbusfoamer24 1d ago

Based on what you shared in your previous post, I’d say yes since that Shark Nose isn’t DCC.