Looking for the contents of a "how to" article written about the fall of 1991. It showed how to install LED marker lights on the 027 observation cars. Would like the contents of the whole article if possible. Does anyone have this issue???
Thanks alot, Marty
Marty
I have it. let me see what I can do.
Bill
Sorry but I can't upload for some reason. But do as Texas Pete suggest, thats what I do.
I don't have the article; but here's how I would do it:
The holes in the shell are close to 3 millimeters in diameter, which is a standard LED size. So replace the plastic light pipes by red LEDs, with their flanges trimmed off as necessary to fit into the holes. If the holes are too small for the LED bodies, drill them out for an interference fit.
Assuming a maximum track voltage of 20 volts and using 28-milliampere 2.25-volt LEDs (like these http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062552) use a ballast resistor no smaller than 330 ohms. Increasing the resistance will dim the LEDs. If your resistance is less than 680 ohms, use a power rating of at least 1 watt. If your resistance is less than 1500 ohms, use a power rating of at least 1/2 watt. For any resistance of 1500 ohms or more, a 1/4-watt rating is enough. Using a power rating higher than needed will keep the resistor cooler.
Wire the two LEDs in anti-parallel, that is, with the anode (longer lead) of each one connected to the cathode (shorter lead) of the other. Then wire the ballast resistor in series with the LED combination. Connect the whole thing between the pickup and the car or truck frame.
Bob Nelson
Richard Kughn brought out Madison Hardware in NYC, lock, stock and barrel and moved the entire inventory to Detroit about 1990. I heard it took about 15 semi's to move the contents at the time...
Boxcar Bill, can you send to my email if provided???
Our community is FREE to join. To participate you must either login or register for an account.
Get the Classic Toy Trains newsletter delivered to your inbox twice a month