MARX Glen Dale RR Station

I assume this is the type station you are asking about. You would also be missing the small suit case and the activation bar. Google 1.5 V light bulbs. The small suitcase and activation bar are usually the hardest to find. The suitcase and trunk can get a bit pricey.

Steve

Thanks so much for answering back! I did not realize that I am also missing a suitcase. I did note the others are showing up on e-bay.  While it would be important to have the actuator bar, it would be more fitting for my case to just get these others parts. And I thank you for the bulb search idea. Now further questions. Would a single D size battery of today, still operate the lights? And historically did I not see a depot online that had terminal posts, that at some point MARX eliminated the battery power? Or did someone modify it on their own?  Thanks for your help!!

To the best of my knowledge these stations never had connections to permit anything except battery power. Current batteries will power both lights - however, it is very easy to run a few wires underneath the base and just power everything from a standard power supply.  If you choose this route you will want to run with a low voltage in the 5-10 volt region and you will need lamps that can handle that voltage.  The big issue is that of too much lamp heat damaging the colored insert on the "Dangerous Curve Ahead" warning light.

Through the years I’ve had a half dozen or so of them. Typical Marx, lots of variations. Bases could be green, red or a blue. In some photos I’ve seen what looks like gray. I have had one with binding posts for 12V hook up. 

Steve

That's interesting about the binding posts Steve. Thanks for the info.

@Steve "Papa" Eastman posted:

Through the years I’ve had a half dozen or so of them. Typical Marx, lots of variations. Bases could be green, red or a blue. In some photos I’ve seen what looks like gray. I have had one with binding posts for 12V hook up. 

Steve

Thanks Steve for all that information. I appreciate getting it, knowing all the variations.

A number of years ago I bought a cheap one with the binding posts.  It was rusty and missing everything important - don't know why I bought it.  I created decals to replace the missing lithography and it turned out fair.  I made a new crossing signal from a radio IF coil can and a couple of radio knobs.  I got tired of trying the make the crossing arm come down mechanically, so I added a servo motor and sensors. I still use the binding posts for the 5vdc that powers the lights and servo.  A nice accessory, especially if you have a decent original.

@Mr Fixit posted:

Looks great! I also am impressed with your tree covered mountains painted on the backdrop. Nice!

Andre