How to Test an American Flyer Transformer 8B Output

American Flyer started manufacturing toy electric trains in 1907 and their popularity increased through the 1950's. In 1979 they merged with their major competitor, Lionel, and the American Flyer line is now a collector's item. The trains ran on tracks that carried the electricity to run them, and a transformer lowered the voltage from the wall socket and controlled the speed of the trains. The 8B transformer appeared around 1951 and featured a built-in circuit breaker and a reset button for starting, stopping and reversing the engine.

Things You'll Need

• Multimeter

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Plug the transformer in. Press the "Reset" button. The green light should come on.

   • 2

     Set the voltmeter to read AC volts and touch one of the test probes to the left terminal labeled "Base Post" and the right terminal. The voltmeter should read 15 volts.

   • 3

     Connect the meter leads to the "Base Post" terminal and the center terminal. Vary the transformer speed control between "Stop" and "120" miles per hour. The voltage should vary between 7 volts and 15 volts.