Question about a Lionel 1862 General Engine ...........

[V] I got this Lionel 1862 on E-Bay a while back and the light did not work. I posted here that I needed a light bulb and was pointed in the right direction. I got six bulbs in the mail today and got all excited and couldn’t wait t o see it light up… Just like my first marriage…just a big let down. Yep, you guessed it…The darn light failed to light up! The bulbs do work as I tested them. Anyone have a clue as to what I can check on this engine to turn her lights on? I know crap about this engine so any help would be greatly appreciated. It has no wires to the light but it looks like it should not need any. If you have a General you know what I am talking about. Can anyone help? Thanks all.

Handrail is used as part of the circuit. You can probably access the service bulletin from the Olsen Toy Train site.

Looks like the guy who owned it didn’t want it to light because he bent the hand-rail straight. I just bent it back and I am now looking at my General in all its glory! Works better than my ex-wife…LOL! Thanks a bunch for the info! You made a semi-oldman happy! [:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)]

I’ve got the same engine and it does look wonderful lit in the dark. Congratulations on your purchase.