Wiring a 445 operating switch tower

Technically, you should be using a 145C and not a 153C (keep reading)

When using the 145C:

One 145C post goes to a fixed voltage source, the other goes to post "2" on the 445.

"1" on the 445 goes to your ground (outside rail common).

"3" on the 445 goes to the same fixed voltage source as the 145C

You can use a 153C in place of the 145C by using clips 2&3.

Are you familiar with the wiring diagram for the tower? Like many Lionel operating accessories, you need only provide a contact closure to make the operating part operate. The lamp remains on at all times. (unless you want it to do something else.)

There are three connections: Lamp, action, and return, (common). The lamp gets steady accessory voltage, and the action gets accessory voltage, switched by the 145C.

See the diagram on page 10 in the attached 1965 Lionel Operating manual.  The diagram shows a 145C which is the correct contactor for this accessory.  You can use the 153C but you won’t use the #1 clip in your application.

There’s also a diagram on that page showing how to wire it using an insulated outside rail.

HTH,

Bill

Lose the contactors!!

Use an insulated track section and it's a snap. Wire it this way:

#1 and #3 posts go to your power source (don't use track power)

#2 goes to the outside insulated side of the track piece.

Works every time.

Edit:   Wiring this way will keep interior lamp illuminated at all times. I just set mine up this past weekend using this method and it works great.

I would like to Thank all those who replied to my question. I now know what I was doing wrong and will rewire it per your suggestions. I wish you all a Merry Christmas..