Hi Vintagelover,
That part has very low gain. Probably overkill for the job. If you do run into performance issues, like poor regulation or excessive supply noise, try a TIP41 or one of these (or similar). I did a search on Digikey and you now have time to order something more appropriate. The device is fine at a 3 amp rating for collector current. 1 amp would do it, but I'm leaving room for charging capacitance when you switch on. A TO-126 part might possibly work as well, but heat dissipation would be your limiting factor.
-Chris
That part has very low gain. Probably overkill for the job. If you do run into performance issues, like poor regulation or excessive supply noise, try a TIP41 or one of these (or similar). I did a search on Digikey and you now have time to order something more appropriate. The device is fine at a 3 amp rating for collector current. 1 amp would do it, but I'm leaving room for charging capacitance when you switch on. A TO-126 part might possibly work as well, but heat dissipation would be your limiting factor.
-Chris