Was there any specific locomotives in standard gauge that came with brass plated collectors vs. nickel plated. I’m trying to compile some research. So far combing thru auctions I notice the 390 has come with the brass bottomed collectors. I have been able to find a 400e with one yet. Was it only for bild-a-loco motors. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
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There were 2 Collector assemblies that Lionel used in the "classic " period that run post 1924 to the end of Standard Gauge.
The B-A-L motor had a steel stamping collector assembly that fastened with screws at the ends. The general rule is they were brass plated and nickel plated both until about 1932-1933, then were nickel thereafter. BUT, some late in the game locos for the mid-1930's had the brass ones. The name plates came in several configuration over the manufacturing period. Basically 1) plain Brass etched, 2) Brass etched and black enameled background, And Aluminum etched with black enameled background. It should be noted that these collector plate assemblies have to really be identified via personal inspection as there were a couple changes to the inside... otherwise they are interchangeable.
The Super Motor pickup assembly was very consistent it its design. Fiberboard base with a 2 roller sprung collector and a brass plate assembled on to it. I do believe that the only thing that changed was the collector spring, early on it was hourglass shape, later was straight or uniform in width. The change occurred sometime around 1928.
Rob,
Thank you for the response. You are a wealth of knowledge. I did not know the background on brass vs nickel on this topic. You have explained quite a bit on the topic.
Mike
Hope it helped.
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