I have a handrail on a Lionel Milwaukee S-3 steamer with an uneven paint job that I want to replace. Lionel has the part, but I was wondering if these handrails serve as antennas. Also, there's some resistance when I try to pull the end of the rail out of the cab hole, and I'm not sure if trying to yank it out will mess up an antenna lead or what. I hesitate to force it. Anyone have any advice on this?
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Yes, the handrail is one of two handrails that are the Legacy antennae....you do need to be careful in handling it. As far as the end going into the cab area, it likely has an insulated grommet around it as well to insulate it from the cab.
Another area of concern is the stanchions that hold the handrails in place; I'm still looking for Lionel to stock the correct ones for this engine; all the ones Lionel do have in stock are too long for this application. The correct stanchion is: 6101229250. Lionel does not have them in stock at this time; I do hope they one day will have them available. The reason for concern is they do break easily, especially when trying to get the handrail out of the pilot casting.
If these are the antenna then most likely wires will be attached inside the boiler. You will have to remove the boiler to get to them.
Yes, they are connected to wires in the cab.
"handrail...with an uneven paint job"
I don't know what "uneven" means here, but wouldn't it make more sense to touch up the handrail? Isn't it black?
(Every disassembly of anything delicate creates an opportunity for damage. Good acrylic paint and a fine brush, not so much. Fast, too.)
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
