Lionel 145 Gateman

Pat,

If you use it powered from the track voltage it might not open all the way do to  the voltage drop from a training running at the same time, normally you use a fixed output from your transformer so no matter what the track voltage is it won't effect the operation and the door on the gateman will open all the way every time , where as if on track power the door might not open all the way.

that's why most TRANSFOIRMERS ZW and MTH Z4000 also has 2 external outputs for accessories!

Good luck!

Alan 

Not really. But that is about how the question is stated.

Maybe is the answer.

Two ac transformers as John suggested lets you "dial in" the shacks speed.

Watch this before using two transformers together. They must be "phased" to work properly. Age doesn't matter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iASQfnE6pCk

Repair Tech points out the other way, the accessories output.

But with some transformers this will still not work. (some have dc Acc. or terminals that have transformer legs that can produce the wrong combo for the voltage you want.

So....What transformer(s) are you planning on using.

Any blocks, or fancy goodies, or strictly old school conventional?

 Basically, what do you have access to all together?

If you have a voltage meter use it, otherwise note the handle volt position needed.... but hook it & the shack up, and have it working at your "ideal speed" note the voltage then we can possibly aim for that voltage, from the fixed connections, depending on what you have for power of course.

A 145C Contactor will permit you to power the 145 gateman with non-track power and not need to electrically involve the track power.

See attached.

Insulated rail method same manual.

Mine is working using lionel insulated track been this way for a number of years,no problems at all.

My last 2 gateman wouldn't work with the low voltage track power some new loco's use.

I had no choice but to step up to dedicated power also.