Cannonball said:
How much power can an HO engine handle? As I mentioned in my thread about my daughter's Model Power set, the transformer seems a little weak and I'd like something with a bit more juice to it. Would the engines be OK if I hooked up my CW80 to it or would it fry the little buggers with too much juice?
Most of your question has already been answered. Another alternative for a good power pack is a used MRC Tech series - any model Tech 2, 3, or 4. I have found these at train shows, pawn shops, and on eBay.
MRC rates their power packs output in VA (volt-amps) which is the same as watts for our purposes. Their smaller power packs are rated at 18VA and go up. An HO locomotive should not be using more than 6VA in normal operation. Even the old Athearns wouldn't use more than 8VA in normal operation.
If an engine is using more power than 6-8VA, it is usually a sign that the gearing has dirt in it, needs lubrication, or there is some form of binding in the drive mechanism. In any of these cases, the locomotive will also not run smoothly, and the motor will be hot to the touch.
If you are running the set on the floor, you may have some dirt or carpet fuzz or similar in the mechanism, which would also cause the symptoms. I would recommend checking the locomotive out carefully before increasing the power available.
yours in running well