The Control Master 20 has two settings 0-20 and 0-14 VDC and is capable of 5.5 amps. The layout will start with a box of 51 inch straight and a 10 foot diameter cicle of aristocraft brass track to run 4-6-0 Big Haulers and Annie locomotives.
I have read other posts that recommend restricting the maximum power to 16 VDC for Bachmann locomotives.
Should I only use the lower (0-14 VDC) setting a) with 1 locomotive, b) with 2 or more loco's?
I would do a real life test. I would try both settings, testing the voltage at the track with a voltmeter. You may find the 20v listed at the higher setting may be less by the time it gets to track. Same with 14v setting. Also, try testing it with the locos running. I think the ten wheelers hit their top speed at less than 16 volts (maybe around 12v). You may find that nothing is gained with a higher voltage setting.
-Brian
I have a Control Master 20 and always use the higher voltage setting. It doesn't matter if I am running one or more locomotives.
Jim