>>11282744There's three tiers I suppose of needing transformers. If you have three large loops and lighted scenery like my layout, even just one ZW transformer will suffice. The mainline tracks on my layout extend about 30 feet down with a helix that is 8 feet wide and it does fine. The 4 handles will all be in series automatically. Above that, on MASSIVE layouts you might need to have multiple transformers wired in series. On smaller layouts, one transformer will be fine.
For just one track the GW transformer will be be a-okay. That's the small one with the single orange handle. I tend to go overkill with my buss wiring and I have power drops every 2-5 feet of track.
Two transformers on a small layout will likely cause problems, as they will overpower things and split one line into two odd power sections and they will overlap. That will put down too much power. The goal is to have a constant 18 volts throughout the line.
I would suggest trying to build it out as long as possible, then buying a voltmeter to test the power around the loop. Anytime you start to see a drop below 18 volts you should add an extra power drop. This is especially necessary if you want to run trains with lighted passenger cars.
My layout uses a ZW and a GW, the ZW's 4 handles operate 4 different "zones" so to speak. One handle powers the outer loop of the mainline, one powers the inner mainline loop, one powers the inner loop and the last one handles power to all sidings. I also have a GW to power my lighted accessories. At your point you should only bother with a second transformer for accessories.
Long story short you should be fine with the one transformer and adding power drops as you see fit. If you need help or want me to explain buss wiring I can draw a crude overview of my layouts wiring scheme.
Here's a video showing my start up process so you can see what I mean.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU67KyXHm3A&t=187s>>11282795Based, late steam era is my era too. Nice Mohawk!
