Lionel Automatic Train Control 078

[Graeme Bales]

It took 77 days to come from Columbia, Tn. to Nova Scotia , Canada,  by snail mail.On the removable piece just below the base of ladder it says No.078 for O gauge  track, the light top probably broke years ago and only the brass piece that holds the 2 bulbs is the only thing left. I can make the other  3 sides and top. The control needs to be rewired but I cannot find a picture of inside of  control.. This control has a green ladder and maroon base and the 3 wires come out the left side by the X on the on off switch..  Does anyone know what age it might be? Any help would be greatly appreciated .   Thanks Graeme

[BigAl 956]

Definitely a prewar signal circa 1922.

Here is a link to one in very good condition for sale on ebay.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/78-AUTOMATIC-TRAIN-CONTROL-w-BOX-LIONEL-TOY-TRAIN-O-or-STANDARD-GAUGE-/191277521058?pt=Model_RR_Trains&hash=item2c890758a2

[TrainLarry]

The service manual lists the years 1924-1932, and has a sketch of the operating unit.

Larry

[Graeme Bales]

Thanks Larry the service manual only gives part numbers,, what I need is wiring diagram of inside of No 078 and is it hooked up to track  like a train station,where the train stops and starts up again?   Graeme         

[TrainLarry]

I would say that it would be hooked up similarly to the postwar 253 block signal, but without the variable timing feature.

Larry

[Graeme Bales]

Thanks Larry.  I guess what I need is a schematic diagram for 078 signal to rewire it       Graeme

[TrainLarry]

Nothing out there that I am aware of. If you can provide a clear, close up picture of the operating unit with the present (if any) wiring, it may help to get your unit rewired properly.

Larry

[Graeme Bales]

Larry      Thank you for all your help, I know as much about this computer as I do about the 078.  I will get a friend to help me with a picture .   I also have a  91 circuit breaker that doesn,t work .  I bought. it because I was interested in early accesories  and how they worked, all my transformers do the same thing..    AT 76 years old I sold my  1926 Model  T  Ford and am happy to be at a table to work on old Lionel  stuff... Thanks    Graeme