The Lionel No. 38 Water Tower is a detailed model accessory for model train layouts, designed to enhance the realism of a miniature railroad scene. This water tower serves as a functional element, featuring a motor and water pump that allows it to simulate the process of supplying water to steam locomotives. It is constructed from a combination of detail-molded plastic and die-cast components, ensuring both durability and a realistic appearance. The water tower is designed to operate on Lionel O or O-27 gauge three-rail layouts and is compatible with 12-18 volts alternating current (VAC) power.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Lionel No. 38 Water Tower is to simulate the process of filling a locomotive's tender with water. It achieves this through an internal water pump that draws water from the tower's tank and dispenses it through a movable spout. The operation is controlled by a slide switch on the tower, which, when moved to the "on" position, causes the spout to drop to the horizontal position and the pump to activate, transferring water to the tender. Moving the switch to the "off" position stops the pump and raises the spout. The water tower can be operated as a standalone accessory or integrated into a Command Control environment using an SC-2 Switch and Accessory Controller (SC-2) or an SC-1 Command Control accessory. In a Command Control setup, the water tower's functions can be controlled remotely, adding a layer of interactive realism to the layout.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Requirements: Operates on 12-18 volts alternating current (VAC).
- Gauge Compatibility: Designed for Lionel O or O-27 gauge three-rail layouts.
- Construction: Made from detail-molded plastic and die-cast components.
- Water Capacity: The internal tank holds approximately 7 fluid ounces of distilled water.
- Control: Manual operation via a slide switch; compatible with SC-1 and SC-2 Command Control accessories for remote operation.
- Water Pump: Features an internal motor and pump for water transfer.
- Water Colorant: Lionel Water Colorant (610-4086-100) is recommended to tint the water a desired blue hue.
Usage Features:
- Placement: The water tower can be placed anywhere on a layout, but it is most effective when positioned near a steam locomotive to enhance the action of the layout. A flat and clear area of approximately 6" x 6" is recommended for placement.
- Filling the Tank: To fill the water tower, the 2" piece of tubing (included in the packaging) should be attached to the plug located on the top of the water tower. The other end of the tubing is then inserted into the tank or the water will overflow. Water should be poured into the funnel until the tank is full. Distilled water is recommended to prevent mineral deposits.
- Operation: To operate, simply move the slide switch to the "on" position. The spout will drop, and the pump will activate, transferring water. Moving the switch to the "off" position will stop the pump and raise the spout.
- Command Control Integration: For advanced operation, the water tower can be wired to an SC-1 or SC-2 Command Control accessory. This allows for remote control of the water tower's functions, such as activating the pump and moving the spout, from a Command Control system. The wiring involves connecting the water tower's "U" and "A" posts to the appropriate terminals on the SC-1 or SC-2 accessory.
- Water Colorant: To enhance visual realism, Lionel Water Colorant can be added to the distilled water in the tank. Two bottles of colorant are typically sufficient to achieve a desired blue tint.
Maintenance Features:
- Water Quality: To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the water tower, it is crucial to use distilled water. Distilled water helps prevent the formation of mineral deposits inside the tubing and pump, which can lead to blockages and reduced performance.
- Cleaning the Tank: The water tower tank should be cleaned periodically to prevent the buildup of residue. This can be done by removing all water from the tank and cleaning it thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Standard dishwashing liquid can be used for this purpose. It is important to rinse the tank thoroughly after cleaning to remove all soap residue.
- Cleaning the Tubing and Pump: The tubing and pump should also be cleaned periodically. This can be achieved by cycling your water tower a few times with soapy water, followed by clean water to rinse out the soap.
- Sugar Removal: If sugar has been added to the water (perhaps as a temporary measure to create a "steam" effect), it is important to clean the water tower thoroughly to remove any sugar residue. Sugar can re-crystallize and cause blockages or damage to the pump and tubing. A thorough cleaning with soapy water and rinsing is recommended in such cases.
- Emptying the Tank for Storage: When storing the water tower, it is recommended to empty the tank of water to prevent any issues related to stagnant water or potential leaks. This can be done by inverting the entire structure over a convenient receptacle and allowing the water to drain out through the plug located on the roof of the tower.
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