The American Flyer 712 accessory activator is used to activate some of your accessories and cars such as the 717 dump car. It is used with many cars, but these come to mind: 714, 717 log dumps; 716 and 717 coal dump as well as the 715 army unloading car, 732 and 734 operating cars and other operating and unloading cars.
The 712 came in a few versions. This is the earlier version. The earlier version has the square base (versus the later version shaped like a C with no base). If you prefer the earlier, check out our other listings.
And did you know this earlier version also came in two variations: It came like this one with the Fahrenstock clip and also with a thumb nut. If you want that version, check our other listings.
The picture is a stock photo. Yours may look like that or it may have a little bit of oxidation.
Ready to use.