OK Bill, I thought I'd follow up since some of you guys were so nice to help me.

I called Miniatronics and the woman there was of no help and really was sort of rude. She basically told me to get lost until I decided to order and even then don't call but use the web site and don't bother her. That was all I needed to scratch that company.

Then I ran across another company called Evan Designs, modeltrainsoftware.com, and they were very helpful and less than two days I had my order. The bulb came with the resistor and a rectifier and ready to be installed.

Installation of the LED was simple; so far the new headlight works great.

Thanks to those that helped. It was a learning experience about LEDs and I appreciate the replies. Actually, it was fun and now I plan to use more LEDs in other models as well as the railroad.

Alex

Thanks, Bill, and what voltage LED do I use with that 1000 ohm resistor? I see that Miniatronics has some white LEDs that they call a Yeloglo White. The bulb that I removed from the engine is 4mm x 7mm. Would you then recommend the 3mm LED that they have? Also, there is a note by the LED that says "You must use a 560 ohm resistor that is included in the package". Would you still use the 1000 ohm or their 560 ohm?

Thanks for the help. You can tell I don't have a "feel" for this work and I know there are many variables and options.

BTW, I've flown over you many times in the past. I flew for TWA and, of course, we went into St Louis a few times. Those days are long gone.

Happy New Year

Stantona

Well, I took the bulb out and it does look like a bulb and not a LED. I looked around in my parts and I see I have some LEDs that are labeled 1v Min to 3v Max. Do you know what the typical voltage is that runs to the wires for the head light?

Thanks again,
Stantona

It appears that I need a bulb and not a LED going by what I've read so far. Any idea what bulb I need to get?

I'll try to get the bulb out first and that might tell me all I need to know.

Thanks for all the help to all of you.

Stantona

I cannot tell by looking at it. The front of the engine pops off the front revealing the wires, two of which go up to the headlight. It appears the front of the headlight should pop off as well, or at least swing open. But I don't want to force it in case I'm wrong in which case I will create more problems.

Hope you find your notes. Thanks for taking the time.

Stantona

I have the #81199 2 truck shay with the front headlight out. (The rear light works.) I cannot figure out how to disassemble the unit enough to fix the problem. Is there a bulb to replace? Or is there a LED with long leads? What is the way to go about fixing the light? I'm sure someone knows.

Thanks and Happy New Year,

stantona