@trains52 posted:I have an MTH Operating Box Car w/Signal Man 30-79015. It operates on track power with a remote control track while car is idle. Is there a way to re-wire this car so the Signalman will operate while the car is in motion? I would install an on/off switch in frame to shut off operation at times so I would not burn out the mechanism.
Define what you mean by "operate while the car is in motion."
With zero out-of-pocket cost (meaning you don't need to buy a Mini Commander or any "new" electronics), you can indeed re-wire the box car so it continuously cycles the signalman motion "forever" as long as it receives power from the track. As you say, you could install an on/off switch to stop the behavior.
But, if "operate while the car is in motion" means you want to activate a single cycle when the car is anywhere on the track (and NOT just when it's over a UCS or what I think you mean by a "remote control track") then you would need something like the Mini Commander. If you are handy with a soldering iron and don't mind some DIY electronics handi-work, I have shown how you can remotely activate the operating boxcar anywhere on the layout for $5-10.
Here's a short video from the above write-up on the JCS O-gauge archive site. It's the MTH operating boxcar but the concept is the same as the signalman.
