o27 Switch machine lighting

[Anonymous]

I guess I have the machines hooked up now, they seem to be working. The blub in the switch maching controller is on all the time, whould this be? I took the rather large bulb out and all it says is 12V.and it has a screw in type base. The bulb in the switch machine is also on all the time. It is a bayonet type bulb, with no markings. Would you happen to know the numbers of the correct bulbs, and should those bulbs be on all the time?

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They should be on all the time. If the lamp in the controller doesn't make the switch throw or interfere with throwing it, it is probably just fine; I would leave it alone.

[brianel027]

Hi Propgator... you would do well to consult your public library to see if they have the Greenberg Lionel Service Manual... they have one at mine. You can also buy one for about $20.00. I've seen your questions on switches. I didn't initially respond as there are some small variables, depending on the exact model # of the switch as well as the controller. Yes, the lights should be on all the time for both switch and conroller. Sounds like you are missing some parts... the switch track itself should have a colored latern assembly that would go from red to green depending on direction. The controller should have a shutter assembly inside that will direct the light either through the green or red lens that should be on the controller. The 1121C controller uses a large GE 431 bulb. The 1122-100 controller uses a smaller GE 53 bulb, as should also the switch. #53 is a 12-16volt bayonet base bulb. Try either a train shop, K-Mart (auto dept), or Radio Shack has a good selection of all sorts of bulbs. Hope that helps. Good luck.

brianel

[Anonymous]

Propagator,

The lamp with a screw base in the 1121C is a #430 (1949 and earlier). 1121C manufactured 1950 and later uses the #431 a bayonet base lame. Their ratings are the same only the bases are different. Check the yellow pages for lamp distributers. Phillips (formerly Westinghouse) still make all of these and they're made in USA.

Tom