I recently picked up a somewhat rare boxcar. It is an Aristocraft Operation Lifesaver and I would like to put flashing red crossing lights in the cross buck insignia on the sides. Where can I buy a unit that will power 2 LED lights, one for each side, that will flash like a RR crossing?
Thanks.
Try Dallee Electronics. They used to have quite a selection at York.
Get a 555 chip kit and learn to work with 555 chips. You can buy the complete kit for just a couple dollars and you will learn to use one of the most powerful circuit devices in model railroading limited only by your imagination. The 555 chip is the basis for all circuits that oscillate including lighting and even the point-to-point operation modules, or even “lock on” for a set duration before releasing like the Tortoise Bump Accident Avoidance Sentinal (Bump A.S.S.).
The output can drive as much as 250 mA so a certain amount of LEDs, relays, etc. can fire right from the chip without needing a transistor. LEDs are a piece of cake.
You can also look for a HO battery operated flashing lights and these come with very small leds. Not everyone wants to make circuits.
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Thanks for the info guys.
Dan inspired me to dig a bit and I found this slick setup on Ebay but it is from Bulgaria so it might take awhile to get here.
Todd, I wound up using the following flashing module from Amazon.com to run alternating ditch lights on my USA Trains GP38-2:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08F3M573C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It could easily be installed inside your boxcar, and either use track power or a 9V battery to provide the required power source.
Similar modules are available on eBay.
-Keith.
I ended up finding a RAM product on Ebay #119 I think it was, which is designed for a crossing. I bought 2 for $12 plus shipping and they look great.
Thanks guys.