Where to get proper LEDs and resistors

The resistor value is just going to vary the brightness.  So long as its greater than 470ohm, you should be good.  The higher the value, the dimmer the LED will become (I use 1000 ohm, its bright but not overly so).  A 3mm LED is a pretty standard size. For locomotive headlights, I prefer a color called "sunny white". Should be able to find them on ebay, or they're also available from Soundtraxx or Train Control Systems. If you need flangeless ones, go with the ones from TCS.

@Boilermaker1 posted:

The resistor value is just going to vary the brightness.  So long as its greater than 470ohm, you should be good.  The higher the value, the dimmer the LED will become (I use 1000 ohm, its bright but not overly so).  A 3mm LED is a pretty standard size. For locomotive headlights, I prefer a color called "sunny white". Should be able to find them on ebay, or they're also available from Soundtraxx or Train Control Systems. If you need flangeless ones, go with the ones from TCS.

Thanks ,  for the reply.

Does it matter that all I see in the descriptions that the 3mm bulbs are 12 volt ?

For PS/2 systems, you can use 220 ohm resistors or anything greater in value.  I normally stick with 220 ohms for PS/2.  Just look for flangeless LED's in warm white and you'll be all set.

Do an eBay search for warm white flangeless LED, the first hit should be what you need.  Then find some 220 ohm 1/4w resistors to complete the picture.

John wanted to know if the ready to go wired L.E.D. 3mm lights ( in many different colors) w built in resisters I see on Amazon any good?

Well, less than optimum.  Given the fact that most of them are pre-wired for 12V and PS/2 lighting uses 6V bulbs, you sacrifice a lot of intensity using their pre-wired stuff.  It works, just not as good as I like, and soldering a couple leads and a resistor on an LED isn't rocket science.

Thank you John!... as usual your wisdom is always cherished on this page...