I have an MTH 455 Oil Derrick (30-9027) on my layout and the "Bubbles" take a very long time to start and sometimes never do. I had a look at the manual on the MTH website hoping that there would be some information on bulb (which may be the culprit), but there is very little detail given.
Would appreciate any suggestions to get the derrick working properly.
Thanks,
Tom
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Tom,
Yes, the bulbs can wear and respond to the heat less over time. We have one on the InfoAge Science Museum layout. It was acquired without bulbs. A forum member assisted by providing some new bulbs.
Holding the new bulbs in my fingers would cause them to bubble.
However, on the layout, it would take a long time.
I researched and ended up using a Sylvania 3893 Longlife 3893LL at 14 volts AC to get more heat and a quicker start.
The MTH heat chamber and base for the bulb is a little different than the original Lionel.
Take the bulb out and flick the bottom with your finger once or twice. That should help for now.
The original Postwar Lionel 455 Oil Derick used a GE #363 bulb. The 363 bulb draws more current than a 53 or a 1445.
Don't know what MTH or Modern era Lionel used.
Heat the tube for about a minute with the bulb, then take the tube out and shake it vigorously. If it's like all of mine, it will start bubbling in your hand.
Roger
Thanks guys ... I followed your advise and the tube is now bubbling shortly after power is applied. Amazing!
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