18v screw mount bulbs, relays, diodes...

A few options on the accessory bus & bulbs:

• Run multiple voltages - may be worth while adding a 12-14VAC buss for your accessories
  • Multiple Transformers/Taps
  • Lionel AVC
  • Voltage Reducers/Diodes
• Use 18V or 24V Lamps on 18VAC:
  • Bulb Charts:
    • https://justtrains.com/Parts/Bulb_Chart.pdf
    • http://www.thetraindoctor.com/bulbs.shtml
  • Many vendors around: 
    • https://stores.towncountryhobbies.com/
    • https://www.bulbtown.com/
    • http://www.superlumination.com/trainbulbs.htm
    • Your local auto parts store like NAPA

Thoughts on Relays:

There are many cheap relay boards out there like the one pictured below that run on 5VDC (but can switch 18VAC)

You then just tap your AC control circuits (buttons, insulated rail sections etc) and pass them through an LTV-844 or similar optocoupler (with current limiting resistor) to then signal the 5VDC Relay on the relay board. Now, this is not the only solution, just one I use and found to be extremely cost effective.

Good Morning,

There is a place in Jacksonville, Florida that sells a lot of light bulbs for electric trains. Its called Bulb Town. Their phone number is 1-800-413-9847. They will paint light bulbs, if you you ask for them red and green price 1.95 each. Another place for light bulbs would be The Train Tender. Phone number 585-229-2050.

@capacitor posted:

I’ve been at a loss since Radio Shack closed, and I’m trying to wire my interlockings to perform as the real thing (displays correct aspect for proper switch position and/or block occupancy). AC makes it a little challenging.

Frank M.

Frank,

Although many Radio Shack stores have closed, Radio Shack is not out-of-business.  See: radioshack.com.

Mike

eBay is a good choice for small electrical parts.  I have found many parts that the local Radio Shack used to carry at eBay .

Charlie

Town and Country https://stores.towncountryhobbies.com/leds/

sells direct replacement LED bulbs for Lionel.  Many are 18 volt.  I use them in my 153 and 450 accessories.  They run on AC.  They have both screw and bayonet bases.

Thanks all!

These suggestions are very helpful.

-Frank