Lionel #5 Locomotive headlight

Try Joe Mania @ JLM Trains

Thanks for the heads-up.

I was looking at the #5 I have and the headlight is missing, but I don't knw if it takes the dummy or the real light. I don't know how to tell the difference.

I would love to put it on the track in it's current  condition, but am afraid I might hurt the motor.

It takes a real light

The reason I ask the question.

When I look at my copy of the TCA book "Lionel Trains 1900-1943", pg 58 right column, there is a note that says that the earliest models were dummy headlights. How does one tell the difference?

Thanks

I would assume that a dummy headlight would not have a socket for a lamp or wiring to the motor.

Actually, after I typed the last comment, I looked at the pictures on the next page that show the eary version and the later version. If the pictures are correct, there is also a wheel difference, and I have the early version with the "skinney" rimmed wheels

It's not the prettiest thing in the world, but it's the one I own.

I also just realized that the small "cap" on the roof is missing. I guess after 112 years it's ok if a part or 2 is missing

CPC:  you own a wonderful piece!  It is VERY pretty--beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and that loco is more beautiful than the latest, greatest scale masterpiece to those who appreciate the artistry, ingenuity, and engineering over 100 years ago.  I hope you can get it to run--shouldn't be too hard!--and post a video.  Then you need to pick up some cars for the old girl to pull. . . .

I have a MTH repro that slides on the tabs, but you will have to dirty it up to match your loco (it's polished and lacquered brass.)

Actually I know the provenance of this item. Some 15 years ago I got a call from my wife that the husband of one of her coworkers was looking to identify some train items. my wife asked me to call the gentleman, so i did. After about 20 minutes trying to identifying the items and not getting anywhere and although kept saying o gauge I realized we were talking standard gauge. After I gave him info on what he had, he told me that if I was ever in his neighbor to stop in and see if I was interestted. Three or four weeks later, a few days before Christmas, I happened to be going to his area to pick up a  present for my wife.

So I stopped at his warehouse. He said over there in the Rubbermaid box are the items. I took a look, was interested and made a deal.

As it turned out the trains had belonged to the grandfather of my wife's coworker. In addition to this engine there is also a 1911 Special electric locomotive and various freight cars.

when my wife came home from work that evening I thanked her for "MY" Chrismas present.

Oh, wow!  That 1911 Special is another great piece!  What a thoughtful wife!

Then you also got the 1911 and the cars? Photos, please! :-)

I offer a very strong second to contacting Joe Mania at JLM Trains.

There are subtle but specific differences in the headlight style and means of attachment that need to be discussed with Joe. Have the engine in hand when you speak with him. His knowledge is extraordinary, and he is very patient. He will be able to provide the correct parts for your engine.

Thanks to everyone here for their help.

Jon, I will be contacting you

I have made contact with Joe Mania. He is out of stock at the moment. That's no big deal as I've had the engine for years and it hasn't minded being with out a headlight. It has told me it will just refrain from running after dark

Art,

Yes the 1911 is sitting in the same spot where I took the picture of the #5. The cars are in another room, in the same Rubbermaid container I brought them home in.

CPC: Glad you have obtained them all! :-)