1. Introduction and Product Overview
The Piko 36135 G Scale Interior Light set is designed to provide realistic interior illumination for American Wood Passenger Cars in G scale model train layouts. This set enhances the visual appeal of your passenger cars, bringing them to life with authentic lighting.
Key features of this product include:
- New in manufacturer packaging, ensuring product integrity.
- Realistic detail, designed to complement G scale model aesthetics.
- Constructed from robust materials for durability.
- Original packaging for collector value and protection.
- A scale miniature component specifically for model trains and dioramas.
Figure 1: Components of the Piko 36135 G Scale Interior Light Set. This image displays the various parts included in the kit: a long, slender green circuit board with multiple small LED lights, several flat brass contact strips, a few small black screws, and multiple thin electrical wires with connectors at their ends. These components are laid out on a plain white background, illustrating what is provided for installation.
2. Setup and Installation
Proper installation of the interior light set is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Please follow these steps carefully:
- Prepare the Passenger Car: Carefully open your G scale American Wood Passenger Car to access its interior. Refer to your specific car's manual for instructions on how to safely open it without causing damage.
- Identify Mounting Location: Determine the best location for the LED light strip within the car's ceiling or upper interior. Ensure it will provide even illumination and does not obstruct any interior details or moving parts.
- Install Brass Contact Strips: Attach the brass contact strips to the designated power pickup points on the car's trucks or wheels. These strips are designed to collect power from the track. Secure them using the provided screws or other appropriate fasteners.
- Connect Wiring: Connect the provided electrical wires from the brass contact strips to the input terminals on the LED light circuit board. Ensure correct polarity if specified (positive to positive, negative to negative) to prevent damage to the LEDs.
- Mount LED Light Strip: Securely mount the LED light circuit board in the chosen interior location. Use appropriate adhesive or small clips if necessary, ensuring it is stable and level.
- Test Functionality: Before reassembling the car, place it on a powered track to test the interior lights. Verify that all LEDs illuminate correctly and consistently.
- Reassemble Car: Carefully reassemble the passenger car, ensuring all connections are secure and no wires are pinched.
For best results, ensure your track and power supply are clean and provide consistent voltage suitable for G scale accessories.
3. Operating Instructions
Once the Piko 36135 Interior Light Set is correctly installed in your G scale passenger car and the car is placed on a powered track, the lights will automatically illuminate. The intensity of the light may vary slightly with track voltage, as is common with direct track-powered accessories.
No further user interaction is required for the operation of the light set itself. The lights are designed for continuous operation when power is supplied to the track.
4. Maintenance
The Piko 36135 Interior Light Set is designed for low maintenance. However, periodic checks can ensure its longevity and optimal performance:
- Cleaning: Occasionally, gently wipe the LED strip and interior of the car with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Do not use liquid cleaners directly on the circuit board or LEDs.
- Contact Strips: Ensure the brass contact strips remain clean and make good contact with the wheels or track pickups. Dirty contacts can lead to flickering or intermittent lighting.
- Wiring: Periodically inspect all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from damage.
- LED Longevity: The LEDs in this set are designed for a long lifespan. Replacement of individual LEDs is generally not required or recommended. If the entire strip fails, it may indicate a power issue or a need for replacement of the entire unit.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Piko 36135 Interior Light Set, refer to the following table for common problems and their solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Lights do not turn on. | No power to the track; dirty track or wheels; loose wiring connection; incorrect polarity. | Ensure track is powered; clean track and wheels; check all wiring connections for security and correct polarity; test car on a different section of track. |
| Lights flicker or are dim. | Poor contact between car and track; dirty contact strips; insufficient power from transformer. | Clean brass contact strips and wheels; ensure good contact with track; check transformer output and track voltage. |
| Only some LEDs are lit. | Damaged LED on the strip; partial circuit issue. | Inspect the LED strip for visible damage. If multiple LEDs are out, the entire strip may need replacement. Contact Piko support if under warranty. |
6. Specifications
- Product Name: PIKO G SCALE MODEL TRAINS - INTERIOR LIGHT SET FOR AMERICAN PASSENGER CARS
- Model Number: 36135
- Brand: Piko
- Scale: G Scale
- Compatibility: Designed for American Wood Passenger Cars
- Recommended Age: 14 years and up
- Power Source: Track power (DC/Analog or DCC compatible, depending on car wiring)
7. Warranty and Support
Piko products are manufactured to high standards. For information regarding warranty coverage, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Piko website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
For technical support, spare parts, or further assistance, please contact Piko customer service through their official website or authorized dealers. When contacting support, please have your model number (36135) and a detailed description of your issue ready.
