This is the fourth of several different how-to articles with detailed photos and instructions for installing marker lights in a variety of N Scale cabooses.   

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These projects all started with the discovery of Layouts4U, a great model railroad supplier in England, offering complete caboose lighting kits at very reasonable prices. I highly recommend their products and service.

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I opted for their magnetic latching reed switches with onboard battery (top left), which allow for simple installation and easy on-off activation with a magnetic wand.

 

The Bowser caboose is a simple installation. Start by removing the roof assembly, which consists of the roof plus a clear plastic box that forms the window glazing and contains the body weight. Then remove the clear plastic box from the roof by squeezing the top sides: it will drop away from the roof (top right). 

 

Cut a notch in the top of the end railing and a corresponding notch in the top of the end wall (center left). Then drill a small hole on the roofline tab on the underside of the roof assembly and epoxy the wire and LED in place so it is centered at the ridge line and attached to the edge of the roof (center right). 

 

There's not enough clearance to attach the reed switch to the roof, but it fits very neatly into the plastic glazing assembly along with the battery. Reattach the roof panel to the glazing box and re-insert into the body of the caboose.

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Passing a magnet by the side of the caboose will operate the marker light at your discretion.