Postwar Lionel #6520 searchlight car help.

You could always make a new fiber wash or you could order one from the TrainTender (see picture).

When you reassemble the light, put the spring on the wire first, then thread the wire through the lamp socket, then through the searchlight housing.  The spring between the washer and the socket keeps the bulb tight in the socket.

Before you order, check to see if you need anything else, since the postage is more than that lamp lead assembly.

@Danr posted:

You could always make a new fiber wash or you could order one from the TrainTender (see picture).

When you reassemble the light, put the spring on the wire first, then thread the wire through the lamp socket, then through the searchlight housing.  The spring between the washer and the socket keeps the bulb tight in the socket.

Before you order, check to see if you need anything else, since the postage is more than that lamp lead assembly.

Thank you so much!  This is great information and super helpful!

If I try to recreate the washer do you have any suggestions on what material to use? Do I need to find a special fiber material, or would rubber or plastic work as well?    Thank you!

I used a piece of an old grocery store saver card. The ones you give the cashier to scan. Worked great! You could also use a old credit card.

Train nut’s idea would work.  You need about a 5/16” diameter with a center hole just large enough to pass the wire through.  Put a glob of solder on the end of the wire and file it slightly flat.

It doesn’t have to be pretty.

Thanks everyone!  I've got it up and running using some plastic scraps I had laying around.   I'll think I'll order a few of the parts though anyway for the future.

Thanks,

Joe