Maintenance tips for Signal Shanty w/ signalman

I picked up a signal shed today for $18. He basically works but appears to need Clean Lube and possible new spring. Any hints on optimizing this accessory would be appreciated. Thanks, Dave

Dave, I’m presuming this signalman is O scale. Congratulations on your acquisition. Sounds like you have the right ideas so that the door opens smoothly and the guy pops out and in.

I can clean you Lionel Gateman for you, make him work like new!

Thanks, yes “0” I can clean him up but I think he needs a new return spring. Can you sell me one ? Thanks, Dave

Not sure what you mean by “spring return”. If the door won’t close, it’s probably getting hung-up on the little raised bump on the platform. Joe

When you take off the bottom plate, there is a spring about 3" long maybe. It looks weak. But I’ll try a good cleaning and maybe even wax the green surface so it’s smooth and slippery. Dave

Hello Dave.

Cleaning and waxing its might do it. If not, I can order the spring for you.

This might help, too:

http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/searchcd31.htm?itm=253

Yes, the part number is 45-14.

It is not availible at olsen’s though, just Jeff has it at this time.

You could also go to the hardware store to find d very close- to exact match for the spring. It would have to be the right tension.