IR controller for accessories?

MTH,  but it does not operate nearly as nice as the Lionel!  Have U tried all the Dealers on the Forum???

You can also try Azatrax - they have a number of IR controllers and relays.

@robmmichaels, did you see this? I would have just emailed you, but you have no information in your profile.

Zstuff DZ1075:

I have one activating this MTH gateman. They are more affordable and less obtrusive  than the Lionel I.R.s

Thanks for the suggestions.

If you buy a used Lionel 153IR be sure it comes with the "correct" manual.  Using the same SKU/model number Lionel has changed the wiring instructions for the 153IR so you need to know which version you have.  To my knowledge there is no marking or labeling on the 153IR that definitively identifies the version/release date of a particular unit.  This has been the subject of much consternation in several OGR threads.

stan2004, thanks for the reminder. I stopped using the manuals and use trial-and-error to determine how to connect my accessories to the 153IR.

@robmmichaels You may be in luck. This was just posted in new arrivals from Charles Ro. They have some IRs in stock.

https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/...arrivals-4#lastReply

Azatrax's are nice since you can embed the sensors in the track and the electronics can be hidden under the table.   Azatrax has lots of options.  The  Zstuff IR controller is smaller and less expensive.  Check Zstuff current output load capability when selecting an IR controller. 

Thanks for the suggestions. I just ordered 2 from Charles Ro. I will post again after I see what instructions they include in it.

If you're looking for a project, the 153's electronics can also be hidden under the table by separating the two halves and mounting the control panel underneath the layout. You will need to disconnect and splice in longer wires because they are too short to reach. In addition, I found that the top part was then too low for the sensor in the top half to pick up the train's movement, so I built a short box out of styrene.  In my case, the 153 (bottom of pic) operates an MTH Gateman out of the picture.