Another stupid remote question

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Okay, I know I’ve asked way to many “remote” questions, but I looked in the MTH yearbook and remembered that…why waste 300 bucks on the DCS when you don’t even have a permanent layout…MTH has a couple other remote systems.

The RailKing remote is probably the cheapest…but the lockon deal probably won’t work with Lionel O27 tubular track, right? Then there’s the Z-4000 system, but they claim that it is “designed to work with the 400-watt Z-4000 watt transformer.” So, is all this true? The RailKing remote is only 60 bucks, and the Z-4000 is only $20 more. I’d probably take the RailKing remote, if I could. It would be a good deal if one of these could work with my track and Lionel 80-watt transformer.

2

The Railking remote could be adapted for tubular track, but like a TV remote you have to point it at the general direction of the lockon. The Z-4000 remote is good, but requires the Z-4000 transformer. A Lionel Powermaster and a CAB-1 might be a good solution for you.

3

Can the RailKing remote work with all (or most) Lionel and MTH trains, like transformers can?

4

I don’t see why not, the MTH web site should have the manual for the IR remote.

5

Just how would you make the lock on work with the tubular track? It looks like there’s a hook up for an outside rail and the center rail.