Da problem wit wig-wags

[Robert_Gift]

If either the right or left electromagnet coils inside the signal, which alternately attract the paddle armature, fails, the (-o-) paddle will not swing.
If the ----(+) does not swing, the bell is not rung. The paddle mechanism causes the clapper to hit the bell.
Until the paddle builds enough momentum to full swing, the clapper does not strike the bell.

Also, the double-sided red light () can appear to be lit when the sun is rising or setting behind the signal.
Do any drivers license manuals explain the meaning of an operating wigwag signal?

The wigwag mechanism has a clamp (brake) which keeps wind from causing the paddle to swing.
An electomagnet solenoid causes the brake to release when the signal is activated.
If that solenoid fails, would that cause the paddle not to swing?

Seems there are too many potential problems which could adversly affect the operation of this signal.

LED (o)-(o) lights are the most reliable.

[Smjh1979]

I have seen wigwags fail before. I have a video of both wigwags at the Dominguez #1 crossing at the LA Harbor area section of California both wigwags failing at the same time. I don't know if the red light lit up though.

There was another time before that I didn't get on video of one of the same Dominguez #1 wigwags failing to swing, and the other swinging just fine.

As for the sun glare, that's why I like the WCH clear LEDs. If only Dialight or GE could come out with a clear ball LED...

[gedunk]

That's why there's only a dozen left in service-if that many.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wigwag_(railroad)

[AndrewFields]

While wigwags are very cool and it breaks my heart to see them disappear, you can't ignore the fact that they are sorely inadequate for today's needs. When the wigwag was developed in 1909 (100 years ago!) cars were open, speeds were slow, and there was almost no traffic. With today's well-maintained, high speed paved roads and enclosed, well-insulated cars with high powered stereos and people driving distractedly on cell phones, the wigwag is simply a fish out of water. For a device that has been banned from being installed new since the late 1940s, it's hung on for quite a long time. Not even 8" lights had that good of a run.

Some will obviously live on in museums and on operational museum railways but that's about it.