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Lionel released the PRR J Tower some time ago, and recently I purchased a basket case one that had broken parts, but the structure itself was sound. The steps were broken in about 8 pieces (they're fragile resin), chimney broken off, and a missing window. After putting Humpy Dumpty back together I still need to find a window. My question what is the film or other foggy substance on the windows on the one side of the window (first picture)? I tried to peel it off thinking it was a film but no go. Is this supposed to be like this? Note that the other side's windows do not have this covering (2nd picture). I really appreciate this structure; it's already mortared and comes lighted, although mine was stripped of lighting for some reason.

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That's not J Tower, it's a model of MG Tower.  MG stood for Mid Grade, and the tower was west of Horseshoe Curve, between the Curve and the Gallitzin tunnels.  The windows on the first floor track side were glass block windows and were not really see-through, even when new.  Several photos are on the site below.  The yellow film on the model's windows looks painted on, like a varnish of some sort.  It definitely doesn't peel off.

https://railfanguides.us/pa/altoona/map2/index.htm

Thanks Bob and George. I should have researched the tower's name before posting; Bob's referenced website has awesome information and pictures...what a lonely tower that was out there, or so it seems from the pictures. It appears Lionel got the windows spot on to the prototype; maybe the PRR used glass block windows to withstand flying ballast or other debris. Interesting that it was considered an interlocking tower as aren't such towers used at junctions or intersecting track lines? Wouldn't it be a switch tower or are the terms interchangeable?

Does anyone know if anyone sells windows that'd look decent on this model? They don't have to be exact replicas...or I could put ghostly figure in the window

Last edited by Paul Kallus

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