Anyone else have problems with the CW80 transformer?
I purchased a ready to run Lionel set 3 years ago that included a CW-80 transformer. The transformer performed well with this set when using it to control this set.
This year I decided to upgrade to a Universal LC\LC + Remote Controller and Berkshire locomotive with Lion Chief 2.0+.
I noticed that the remote uncoupler did not work with the CW-80 transformer connected to the track and the remote controller.
I contacted America's Best Train in Itasca Illinois where I bought everything, who told me that the CW-80 transformers were notoriously bad and usually did not provide the 18 volts as stated. I checked the output at the transformer with the throttle control up all the way. It only produced 16.4 volts.
I brought the locomotive to America's Best Train and on their track with a different transformer and the uncoupler worked perfect.
They said Lionel has reworked and improved the CW-80 to correct the issues.
I think Lionel should offer some support (maybe a discounted price) to owners of the defective CW-80 towards the purchase of a new CW-80 or a different transformer.
Maybe if CW-80 owners with this or other problems get together, Lionel may be more receptive to us