LUGNET News : ~330/FAQ/Trains/volts


Cary Clark / FAQ / Trains / volts

Are 4.5V, 9V and 12V trains compatible?

From Larry Pieniazek: !
From Josha Delahunty: !

		4.5V trains use three 1.5V batteries in a separate car to power the motor. 4.5V trains were introduced from 1966 to 1985, and include the 7720 and 7722.

12V trains use the 4.5V track, with two additional conducting rails running down the center of the track. 12V trains were never sold in the US, but were introduced in Europe from 1969 to 1985. 12V sets include the 7735 and 7745.

9V trains replaced both 4.5V and 12V trains, and replaced the plastic rails with conducting metal rails, starting in 1991.

From Thomas Main: !

The track gauge is the same for all three; even the motors are approximately the same size. 12V has the advantage of neat accessories like remote stop signals and remote switch track. 9V has the advantages of being more reliable and currently in production.

From Dan Parker: !

The newer, 9v wheels (on both wheelsets and on the motor) are narrower than their 4.5v counterparts. They tend to derail when negotiating 4.5V/12V points (switching rails).

From Christopher Masi: !

Reinhard “Ben” Beneke has put together a history of LEGO motors, including how to convert a 9V motor to run on 12V track. To run a 12V train on 9V track, the motor must be replaced. 9V motors are available through Shop At Home.

The 9V wheels roll better than the 12V ones, so they will also need to be replaced for cars to move with the least resistance.

Primary content in this document is © Cary Clark. All other text, images, or trademarks in this document are the intellectual property of their respective owners.