Lionel train light bulb chart

Lionel used 15 different types of light bulbs in its O gauge electric trains in the postwar era, but in most cases–87% of catalog numbers, and a lot more than that in actual number of items produced–you can get by with two. Since knowing when can be difficult, here’s a Lionel train light bulb chart.

Lionel almost always specified 14 or 18 volts. Using an 18-volt bulb in place of a 14-volt original, or a 22-volt bulb in place of an 18-volt original results in longer service life. And there were two base types that Lionel used more than any other.

Lionel re-used a lot of the same bulbs throughout its history.

Literally 87% of Lionel catalog numbers used either an E10 Edison screw-type base or a BA9S bayonet base. If the bulb screws in, it’s an E10. If it twists in, it’s a BA9S. When in doubt, get a G3.5, 18V bulb with the appropriate base, like the screw-in 1447 or the bayonet 1445. It may not be a perfect match for what was there, but it will work and do no harm. The same rule applies to Marx and American Flyer as well. If you have a burned-out bulb, rather than a missing one, and the G3.5 looks too small, step up to a G4.5.

Sourcing bulbs locally can be difficult if you don’t have a well-stocked hobby shop nearby. You can try an auto parts store or hardware store, and you’ll have better luck with an Ace or True Value or an independent than with a big-box store. The longer the store has been there, the better the chances it will have something usable.

You may come across 12v bulbs of the right size, since those would be useful for flashlights. They will burn out quickly if you run them at 14 or 18 volts. Many hobbyists use 12v bulbs, but be sure to adjust the voltage on your transformer to ensure you’re not delivering any more than 12 volts to it.

Suitable bulbs are still easy to find online, fortunately.

Lionel often used red and green bulbs. The plastic coverings on modern replacements tend to really dim the light. Some hobbyists take clear bulbs and dip them in translucent paint from a craft store to color them, which gives a more pleasing color than green or red plastic will.

Below I have collected a table of common Lionel items and the bulbs they use, along with the specs on each bulb, and, if I could find one, links to suppliers. For odd bulbs that are no longer available, substitute something that fits of higher voltage.

Consider LEDs

You might also consider LEDs for your Lionel trains. LEDs last longer and require less current to run.