Just purchased a 450 Signal Bridge.  Don't want the constant adjusting required for a mechanical track contactor - Lionel 153 mechanical contactor for example.

Back in March 2008 CTT magazine, there is an article on this topic using instead a Radio Shack:  Relay, Rectifier, and Capacitor.  With RS now out of business, is anyone aware of an updated approach to electronically replace the mechanical contactor?

Or maybe there is a reasonably priced simple electronic device on the market for this function?

I have zero electronics experience, but could/would use this project as a learning experience.

Thanks

Ed

Recently purchased a near new Lionel 394 Beacon.
No matter how long I leave the bulb illuminated, it just doesn't want to turn the Beacon itself thru the top heat vents. Beacon turns very freely by hand while sitting on dimple-topped bulb. Beacon top well balanced and oriented properly to bulb and beacon base.
Any thoughts?
Ed