How do I run Gateman on LGB DC train?

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

All I have set up for Christmas is my LGB G scale DC train. The question is this: If I want to run any Lionel accessories like gateman or a crossing gate (which are closer to G scale anyway) can I still use the track power to operate them. I’m sure I can use a weight activated contactor under the track, but what about power. I am using my DC power pack for the LGB train and it has a Variable DC, a fixed DC, and an accessory power posts.

I think I’m confused about what kind of power goes to the tracks on my Lionel AC/DC?? Don’t the accessories run on DC power?

Any advice would be helpful, before I burn down my new Christmas version of Gateman.

2

DC is fine. I convert the AC to DC on my layout to run the gateman because it is a lot quieter. However, I doubt if the track power on an LGB layout is sufficient to activate the gateman. I would power the gateman separately and put a pushbutton in series with the power so that little people can activate the gateman by themselves. Good Luck…

Earl

3

A complex question. Almost all Lionel trains,except for a few really cheap sets, run on AC and up to about 1998 or so most came with AC/DC motors. Your gateman and crossing gate are just a coil and plunger so I see no reason for them not to work on DC. The only thing to consider is: A DC coil could magnatize the plunger. Many say it doesn’t happen but every repair manual say’s it can.

4

Use AC or DC, whatever is hefty enough to power the gateman.

To actuate him, use the Lionel infrared contactor. This requires AC.

5

I have an HO power pack with fixed AC accessory posts that puts out 17.8 volts AC on a meter. The Nutcraker Gateman comes with a push button switch, but the instructions say say it operates best between 13-15 volts AC. I was going to buy a CW-80 if that voltage is too high to work or could burn it out. (the CW-80 comes with a programable accessory post)

Thanks

6

The 17.8 volts is probably fine unless you leave the gateman powered on for long periods. The higher the voltage, the more crisp the action. I have run my gateman using FasTrack TMCC voltage which is around 18 volts. There were no problems.

Earl

7

If you go for the CW80, don’t rely on your voltmeter for setting the voltage. In the middle of the CW80’s range, the voltmeter will read about 4 volts low, which means that you will set the voltage about 4 volts high. Here’s my latest guess at the CW80’s actual RMS output:

Meter RMS
0 0
0.5 1.6
1 2.7
1.5 3.7
2 4.6
2.5 5.4
3 6.1
3.5 6.9
4 7.5
4.5 8.2
5 8.8
5.5 9.5
6 10
6.5 10.6
7 11.2
7.5 11.7
8 12.2
8.5 12.7
9 &