175 Rocket Launcher

Don't know the answer, but do know that the Postwar version can be a big hit with children, who must be supervised by an adult when operating it..

When I had mine on my layout, the lawyer in me made me think keep the children's eyes away from the line of fire. It has a powerful spring mechanism that made the rocket crash into the ceiling every time. Arnold

The modern version has a digital readout on the controller and also has smoke and lighting effects.

So what's the best I can expect to pay for a modern version ?   I see prices approaching $300.00.

Dan

I have no idea.  I bought mine years ago when first re-released.

MartyE posted:

The modern version has a digital readout on the controller and also has smoke and lighting effects.

Woah, that sounds awesome!

I thought I had a video somewhere on my YouTube page but can't locate it.  It's a really nice accessory with the updates.

I have modern remake. Works great and the smoke effects are a nice touch.

Improved controller also.

Shop around as $300 is way high. I think I found one on the Bay for about $150. 

I love my postwar version, but, whichever you buy, may I suggest that you do something like I did?

Cape Warrenaveral, where my launcher resides, also includes jeeps, military people, a missile launcher, a rotating radar tower, Cape Warrenaveral signage, fencing and other military/space items.

Through it I run a train headed by either my #44 or #45 missile launcher engines pulling postwar space and military cars

Here's a fairly decent YouTube video of a modern one.  Shows the smoke and the LEDs (not a perfect shot of the LEDs, but you can see they are there).

There were 2 modern re-issues.  There may have been some differences, so make sure to review before buying  (half of me wonders if each have identical features (LEDs and smoke?)).

-Dave

If you are looking for a postwar version I have one for sale. $125 plus shipping

I bought the re issue new in box off ebay for $119.00

Oh yeah, the reissue has a can motor instead of the old vibrator motor to move the platform.

Thought I would add some fun and fantasy to the operation of the 175, which I purchased nearly 60 years ago.  The launcher is actually on a 3rd level of the layout, so distance to ceiling is very limited.  To avoid smashing rockets, I added some weights just inside the nose cone.  Then to have some fun with the grandkids, I did the same with Sesame Street figures in an old Fisher-Price farm set.  The kids operate the launcher, and I see how many rockets and figures I can catch. See 2 videos attached...of the successful catches !

In any event, adding weights to the rocket could help save high altitude crashes in to the ceiling. Thought I would share that tip.

Have fun!

Michael
PS: Layout still under construction.

Thanks, Michael, for showing the Postwar version, which I also have.

I would love to see the modern version in action with the smoke and lighting effects. Arnold

Arnold D. Cribari posted:

Thanks, Michael, for showing the Postwar version, which I also have.

I would love to see the modern version in action with the smoke and lighting effects. Arnold

See YouTube link above.  It's a modern one.  you can see the smoke and LEDs. (or the effect of the LEDs, the video doesn't show them in detail)

-Dave