Lionel BANJO SIGNAL Quick Start Manual

LIONEL
®
C
ongratulations on your purchase of the Lionel banjo signal. Place it
at any grade crossing on your model railroad. Passing trains acti-
vate the banjo signal's wig-wag mechanism when you use a 153C con-
tactor (included) or an insulated track section (available separately).
Using the banjo signal with your 153C contactor
T
he 153C contactor is a single-pole, double-throw electrical switch that
is activated by the weight of a passing train. Place the contactor under
the track, as shown in the illustration below. With no weight on the track
above the contactor, terminal clip no. 3 makes electrical contact with ter-
minal clip no. 1. When a passing train depresses the track, clip no. 3
Track tie
153C contactor pressure plate
Adjusting the contactor
A
fter all the connections are made and the transformer is turned
on, the contactor must be adjusted so that the banjo signal oper-
ates properly. Stop the train several sections away from the contactor
so that it does not press on the contactor plate.
Turn the adjustment nut either up or down until the signal begins
BANJO SIGNAL
3
Adjusting nut
1 2
Striking red illumination and wig-wag action combine to create an
unforgettable accessory that's right for any period or setting.
The banjo signal operates between 10-14 volts alternating
current.
breaks contact with no. 1 and makes contact with clip no. 2 instead.
Slide the contactor beneath the track so that one of the track ties rests
firmly upon the top pressure plate. If your layout is fastened to a board,
loosen several sections on either side of the contactor. The track must be suf-
ficiently flexible to bend under the weight of the train.
No weight on track
1
2
Weight of train
1
2
to operate. Then back up the adjustment nut just enough to cause
operation to cease. When properly adjusted, the contactor will
respond to light finger pressure on the track and the banjo signal will
operate as long as any part of the train is passing over the contactor
plate.
71-2709-250
Rev. 8/96
3
Adjusting nut
3
Adjusting nut