I recently got an interesting vintage accessory for my HO-scale model railroad layout. It is the early 1980s Tyco lighted crossing signal:
It is designed so when a train passes over it, the lights flash in an alternating manner like a real crossing (albeit rather fast), and a small wind-up bell inside the plastic loading dock dings. I have tested it, and so far I can get the bell to work (it doesn't require electricity, as it works via a wind-up mechanism), but the lights don't flash. The connections look fine, and it appears that the lights get their power from the rails. It has good electrical connection; I actually had a short train pass over it with no problem. The problem is most likely that the bulbs are burnt out.
How could I change the bulbs? I know the front "STOP ON RED SIGNAL" thingy can be removed to access the bulbs, but I want to actually replace the bulbs inside. I am considering using red LEDs, or should I go for a different type of bulb? (the ones inside are incandescent)
It is designed so when a train passes over it, the lights flash in an alternating manner like a real crossing (albeit rather fast), and a small wind-up bell inside the plastic loading dock dings. I have tested it, and so far I can get the bell to work (it doesn't require electricity, as it works via a wind-up mechanism), but the lights don't flash. The connections look fine, and it appears that the lights get their power from the rails. It has good electrical connection; I actually had a short train pass over it with no problem. The problem is most likely that the bulbs are burnt out.
How could I change the bulbs? I know the front "STOP ON RED SIGNAL" thingy can be removed to access the bulbs, but I want to actually replace the bulbs inside. I am considering using red LEDs, or should I go for a different type of bulb? (the ones inside are incandescent)