That's a neat piece of N scale history. Perhaps useless on a modern layout, but a great conversation piece when other modelers visit. Oh how far we've come. One way to verify the ideas expressed by several on this thread is to wire it to the AC terminals of your power pack, using a momentary on switch in the electrical loop, press the button and see if the little thingybob rises up. Of course, you may wish to keep a fire extinguisher handy for that little experiment. [ October 14, 2005, 08:35 PM: Message edited by: Big Snooze ]
Just checked the Walthers website. They list a similar looking devil for uncoupling rapidos - only $22.98. Guess I won't be swithcing back to rapidos anytime soon.
I just touched the leads across a 9volt battery and sure enough the little ramp popped up. Mine was made by TRIX and sold by Model Power. Even says made in Western-Germany on the underside. It also came with a sign that plugged into the little hole so you could spot your cars correctly before you activated the coils and launched the car.
Hmmm, apparently there is still a market for them: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=6004595062&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&rd=1
We had a similar device to uncouple the old Mantua loop and hook couplers in HO before "N" got started. They were expensive too.
Posted by Russell Straw I just touched the leads across a 9volt battery and sure enough the little ramp popped up. Aargh! IT LIVES!
