Changing a headlamp bulb ??

[237 Lionel]

Greetings,

                  What is involved in changing a headlamp bulb in a Lionel scout steam engine? Is it as easy as removing the plastic cover on the outside or does it involve taking the guts of the engine out? I am new to this and don't want to do more damage than good. Also, would this require any special tools? I have ordered the bulbs, (2 pin #12's), and await your advice. Thanks!........Doug

[phillyreading]

Doug,

I need to know more about the Scout engine; like the stock number as Lionel has made many a Scout engine and to replace a light bulb is a bit differant in each one. For the older 235 Scout engine you must drop the motor assembly from the shell(take the front wheels off as well) as the light bulb is up front & inside. I don't know about the newer ones.

Lee F.

[237 Lionel]

Lee,

          I will be replacing the bulbs on a 242 and 237 Scout engine. They were both made in the early 60's. According to the Greenberg guide the 237 from 63-66. The 242 from 62-66. Thanks......Doug

[237 Lionel]

Lee,

           I went ahead and pulled the motor on the 242 and it was a snap, a five minute job. This engine has no smoker unit and the bulb socket was on the top side of the motor. No problem. The 237 has a smoker unit and the motor doesn't drop out the same. It looks as if the pin above the back wheels will have to be removed. Any advice on how to proceed would be appreciated.

[Dub]

The pin needs to be pushed out. I don't know if the pin is swaged on one side. Look at each end, and if it is, push the swaged side out. I use a blunt finish nail for my 2026. 

[237 Lionel]

Dub,

           It came out as soon as the pin was pushed out. The pin was swaged on one end just as you said. This turns out to be a 5 minute job, great! If you don't know how to do something it is always best to ask someone that does. Thank you and Happy New Year!

[cwburfle]

When you put your locomotive back together, be certain to put the swedged end of the pin back on the same side it came out from. You will want to line up the grooves on the pin with the grooves that have already been cut into the plastic. Otherwise the shell may crack.

[237 Lionel]

Thanks CW, I will take your advice. Cracking it is not an option!