Lionel 313 Bascule Bridge

Here is a link to Postwar Bascule Bridge Instructions.  Note that terminals 2 and 3 are for the switch. If directly connecting them together makes the bridge work where the switch connected across these same terminals doesn't that would indicate a probable bad switch.

If you want to verify the switch is good or bad, simply check it with an Ohm meter or a power source and a light bulb.  It appears to be a simple on/off switch.

It sounds like from your description of the terminals you have a postwar version.

If it's a modern version, here's a link to more info about those. 313 Bascule Bridge (modern)

DrSteve, I don't have the technical knowledge to answer your question. I would think Steve's above reply may help you find it.

I have the 313 Bascule Bridge on my layout, it's one of my favorite accessories, and I wish to inspire you and our Forum friends to help you get it to work because it's a show stopper accessory.

Mine is activated by an Atlas Heavy Duty Connector and a  push button controller that I set up.

Good luck getting it activated by a track with an insulated rail.

Arnold

SteveH - yes it is an early version.  The switch across 2 and three works fine.  I am going to pull out my ohm meter to see if I have continuity between 4 and 5 with the bridge down and none with the bridge up.  From everything I’ve read, that’s appears to be the way it works.  I’m hoping it’s not the internal switch below the pier, I’ll let you know once I have time to look at it.

And the results are in….The unit is wired correctly - the leaf switch that keeps the motor running needs to be adjusted.  It does not fully depress to make contact with portion that turns the track power back on when the bridge is closed.  It is going to be a bear to take apart.  A job for another day, lol

Fixed- it was wired correctly, there is an insulator that is between two of the tab contacts that was missing.   I had an old couple/uncouple track controller that was broken, I used the insulator from that - perfect fit.  Terminal 1 is 16v bridge power, Terminal 2 is for activation switch lead 1, Terminal 3 common to transformer and activation switch lead 2, Terminal 4 is track power and Terminal 5 goes to the center rail of the insulated track sections on either side of the bridge.  Press and hold the button to activate the raising and lowering cycle for a few seconds, track power cuts out of the insulated sections so that the train stops.  Bridge cycles up and down.  When lowered insulated track sections power up and the train goes over the bridge.  I've also attached all the other 313 reference materials that I have found here and on the net for a comprehensive library on the unit.