Convert Unload/Uncouple to #90

JJH:

I am also surprised by the price of these on that auction site.

As far as I can tell, the only way to get a good deal online is to wait for a large lot of them (e.g., 6-10) and hope everyone else is offline that week.  That happened to me once.  

Outside of that, look on the corners of people's tables at train shows.  I have had good luck scooping them for $5 each or so, or even 3 for $10.  If you're patient, you'll find them.

SJS

Thanks.

There are no train stores/hobby shops around here anymore.

I will keep my eye out, but, in the mean time, I will just have to use the

UCS controller.

Unless you are a stickler for authentic Lionel parts to do what you want, why don't you just shop for some SPST momentary switches (normal open), and mount them into a small project box.  Even mount all five in one bigger box, with the appropriate leads coming out of the back, to whatever you want to use them for.  That is what I would do.  Otherwise, simply look for a "lot" being offered of more than 3, and keep trying to get a decent price.  I can't understand the prices either, as most of the books list them at $1 in very good condx, and $12 for Like New.

It worked out great.  I had several UCS controllers that had bad wiring.  Bought replacement wires and started to rewire them.  Using the #3 lead for power, the #2 and #4 leads will then be connected to power to operate some accessories. One for each button (Uncouple and Unload). Left the #1 wire taped up.