Replacing the cord on a Lionel V Transformer

 I've changed the cord on a Z, which I believe is basically identical to the V other than the size of the core.

Here's the basic procedure as I rememember it:

1. On the bottom, under the base plate, unsolder all of the thich varnished copper wires. I believe that there will be two on the circuit breaker, and one connected somewhere else. 

2. Now, flip the transformer over. Remove the knobs by placing pairs of screw drivers under opposite sides of them, and prying up(you may want to put paper under the knobs or tape the screwdriver heads to keep from marring the face plate). Once you've removed the knobs, you can remove the hex head screws from each of the four corners of the face plate. Then, lift the face plate off, which should expose two large flathead screws. Remove these, and you should be able to lift off the top cover. 

3. Carefully flip the transformer back over, and remove the four flathead screws that are buried in the ridges close to the walls. Be sure you hold the metal bracket which supports the lamps and top gears while doing this.

4. Carefully flip the transformer back over, still holding the bracket. Now, lift bracket clear of the transformer core and set it aside(unless you unsoldered some other wires, it should still be tethered to the transformer. This is fine).

5. You should now be able to carefully pick up the core and lift it out of the case(you may need to bend and wiggle the wires some to get them to pass through their respective holes). Flip it over, and you'll see the solder points for the line cord. Replace it. 

While you have it this far apart, it would be a good idea to clean any carbon deposits off the core(using a soft cloth and some sort of mild solvent-I like CRC QD electronics cleaner). You can also replace the lower roller, although, in my experience, they're usually okay since they're tied to the small, fixed voltage knobs. Also, check the solder joints down there.

Now, do everything in reverse to put it back together. Just be sure that the core is securely and properly seated in the case before you attempt to tighten down the screws for the upper bracket that holds it.

Good luck-the V is a fine transformer, and well worth the effort needed to replace the cord.