Whistle Relay Brackets For Lionel Tenders

[steve1946]

I need some help with an issue that has been bugging me for some time.  I have a Lionel 2046W tender that needs a new whistle relay bracket.  The current bracket is broken off and not repairable.  I have a good bracket but would like to know how Lionel mounted these brackets on the tender frame.  There are two "Marx- Like" tabs on the base of the bracket that fit into two slots but the fit is tight and I cannot tell if the bracket is press-fit or soldered in place.  I would like to repair my tender and make it look like original.  Thanks for any help.

[teledoc]

I took the shell off of a 2046w, and the bracket is press fit, not soldered.  If you can get the tabs on the new bracket to fit into the slots, I can make a recommendation of using "JB WELD", and apply it to the bottom surface of the bracket, when you insert it into the frame.  Mix up a small amount of JB WELD, smear it on the flat surface of the bracket, put a small clamp on the frame and bracket, let it sit over night, and I will never come off.

[cwburfle]

I think there was more than just a press fit. Perhaps a tack weld?

The last time I had to mount a relay bracket on a 2046W tender frame, I drilled a single hole though the bracket and frame, and secured them with a screw and nut.

If you use glue, you may need to run a wire to the relay bracket for the ground. I guess I'd put a solder lug under the mounting bracket to achieve this. No big deal.

[steve1946]

Thanks for the comments on my whistle relay bracket issue.  I think perhaps the best way to solve this issue is to look for a good frame on e-bay!  I have really looked closely at the tender frame on other tenders and specifically at the whistle relay bracket and cannot see a tack weld.  I hesitate to pull a relay bracket off a basket-case frame because you never know when one will come in handy.  A press fit solution is puzzling since the little "Marx-Like" tabs are not bent to hold them in place.  They are simply inserted straight down into the slots yet the bracket is firm!  Thank you.

[cwburfle]

Having tried to separate the relay bracket from the frame a few times, I seriously doubt it's just a press fit. :).

[David1005]

I believe that the bracket is spot welded to the frame. It will not be easy to remove the broken piece. The tabs are just there to locate the bracket prior to welding.