2420 Wiring Diagram?

[gottcent]

The bulb won't light on my postwar Lionel 2420 work caboose. I removed the bulb and tested it--OK. But I can't figure out the wiring to the lamp itself. A wire from the track pickup roller connects to a metal tab underneath the lamp, but how does current get from there to the bulb filament? Does anyone know of a wiring diagram for this car? It's not included in my Lionel postwar service manual, nor could I find anything on line.

                                                       John Gottcent

[cwburfle]

The searchlight bracket is hollow.
There is a metal rod running up the center of the tub, surrounded by an insulator.
It is unlikely that these pieces are missing.
You probably have a bad ground.

[gottcent]

Thanks. I found the parts you described and fixed the problem. Also discovered there's a very narrow insulating strip separating the metal piece that goes to the bulb filament from the lamp shell that doubles as the ground. Had to insert some new electrical tape to prevent a short. Appreciate your help.

                                                           John

[Steve555]

I have a short in my 2420 Caboose but have not been able to locate the problem.  Can you please provide a little more detail about how I might find the problem? How do I locate the insulation you mentioned?

One idea is that the underside of the car has a curved (boomerang-shaped) piece of metal that seems to carry the power to the bulb, but I can't tell if it is bent incorrectly or if it is making correct contact. 

I know  just enough to be dangerous, so any and all help would be appreciated!

Thanks

Steve