Is there an economical means to convert a 394 airport beacon to a 494 airport beacon? The 394 is a sorry piece of equipment. How did Lionel get away with producing this piece of junk?
The 394 is not a piece of junk, it’s a nice looker, it just doesn’t work. In theory hot air from the lamp was suppose to make it turn. Converting one into a 494 isn’t really worth the trouble just buy one.
I believe in the “Tips and Tricks” book, it mentions to mount it with only one screw to the table top and that the vibration of the trains will aid in making it work better. Also, make sure the fins on top are bent correctly.
Dennis
And make sure there are no drafts around the #394. As in HVAC registers, open windows and doors. They are really cool when the work right, but that is very unlikely.
Suggest and go buy a #494.
After many frustrating attempts to get a #394 to work reliably, I threw in the towel and purchased a #494. After replacing the rubber “finger” washer and adhesive tape and adding a touch of graphite the #494 works flawlessly! Well worth the second investment !
Make the change. You will not be disappointed and the saving in frustration and stress alone is worth it!