Large Scale Central

Bright headlights

Problem Solving
#1

To increase your loco’s headlight brightness, try using silver heating/air conditioning duct tape and cut a small piece to cover the inside of the headlight housing. MANCO is one brand that is foil based and is very reflective. LGB’s bulb-surrounding insert is easily covered.

In passenger cars and loco cabs, I cover the inside roof with the reflective tape. The reflective tape holds its adhesion independent of outdoor temperature. The lighting difference is noticeable.

Wendell

#2

Something to note, thanks!

#3

It’s normally the easiest things that work.

Simple yet effective.

#4

An additional source for the reflective “tape:”

Nature Valley – here goes – granola bars have the shiny backside of their wrappers that works great as a reflective surface. Ditto for the backside of small bags of Fritos and Cheetos. A dab of CA or spray glue holds the cut-to-fit wrappers.

#5

Ahhh.

#6

How about brighter bulbs? Here’s a F-3 I did many many years ago.

(http://home.comcast.net/~therealms/F3_M1.jpg)

(http://home.comcast.net/~therealms/F3_M10.jpg)

Jon.

#7

Jon-
Did you install a 12 volt bulb? Any more data appreciated.
Thanks,
Wendell

#8

Wendell,

The bulb is from a 2 cell AAA Mini Maglite. Actually, I used the bulb, socket, reflector and lens from the flashlight. Motherboard insulators (washers) were used to set the depth of the bulb in the reflector to get the focus/beam I wanted. I still have the write-up on my website.

Jon.

#9

Jon-
Many thanks!
Your “how-to” on your site is very clear. The Mag bulbs alone appear to be an improvement from conventional LEDs even apart from the reflector. I have not seen Mag brand bulbs sold independently – likely a problem in being a Costco addict.
Wendell

#10

Sorry about the condition of my site. I’m working on a complete overhaul. Hopefully I’ll have the new site online before spring gets here.

As for the Maglite’s. I buy them when they are on sale and scavenge the parts from them to make what I need. If you really want the plain bulbs you can buy them at Wally World or any outdoor store. They are usually in the same area as the flashlights.

Jon.