Lionel track voltage 0 - 16 VAC. Direction is changed by dropping power to the rails twice. Locomotive is a single unit diesel. There are no headlights now. I would like to install LED lights on both ends and have them operate in the direction the locomotive is moving. Space in the body shell is limited to 1.25" wide, 3.0 " long, and 1.37" high.
I am looking for suggestions on how to do this. I would greatly appreciate and assistance provided.
Thank you.
Hi @fredstout3 ,
Do you know what direction control module is installed in your locomotive?
I did a little reading around this and it sounds like Lionel made their own control module which: rectified the AC voltage to DC; could apply the DC to the motor both ways to control the direction.
If you have the same system, it might be as simple as connecting the LEDs across the motor, one one way, one the other. But the LED brightness will vary with the track voltage. And you would need to check that the reverse motor voltage wouldn’t damage the non-illuminated (reverse-biased) LED.
I hope this gets you started,
Paul
Hi Paul,
The locomotive has the old Lionel reverser that is electro-mechanical. Its an AC motor and my understanding of reversing AC motors is weak, I believe that if I can reverse the wires to the field and the brushes it should change direction. I am thinking of using a Teensie to reverse the motor and to provide the means to control the headlights for directional lighting.
Fred