New tracks, old accessories

[Anonymous]

I'm back into the hobby after many years and I have rebuilt a 4x12 layout for Christmas. I now use MTH RealTrax. How can I get Lionel operating gates and an automatic gateman (I have these from the 50s when I was a kid) to operate? Lionel track "ties" fit into the track connector but RealTrax has the roadbed. Will any type of MTH activiation device work?

Many thanks.

Granddad1234

(I have four grandkids who love the trains). 

[chuck]

You can get the IR detector/trigger for RealTrax, or get a couple of sections of O adapter track and stick in a section of standard O Gauge track where you want to use the classic accessory.

[dwiemer]

Not too long ago, I saw a article on making these accessories work by cutting the outside rail on a section of track with a dremel tool.  Cut a small section within the track to make it isolated.  then solder the activation lead to the section.  I am not sure if this was in CTT, OGR or where, but it was fairly simple.

Good Luck and it is great to have the kids interest as well.

Dennis

[pbjwilson]

MTH makes insulated tracks. Simple to attach wires to the underside of the track.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the responses. I'll try the use of insulated track, which I have.

Best wishes.