Running Lionel Gateman off of a DC transformer?

@Mannyrock posted:

I guess I could tap the power for it off of my track transformer, a Z-1000, but that transformer does not put out alot of juice, and its already powering 12 Lionel 022 switches and lanterns.  :-O

Re power consumption of track switches...

First of all, unless all 12 switches are activated at the same moment, power consumption to activate is momentary, one switch at a time, typically.  Whether you have a couple switches or a hundred, if they're activated one at a time, that portion of their power consumption would be the same.

Re the lantern and controller bulbs...changing to LED equivalents will reduce power consumption considerably.  Yes, they're more expensive initially, but they should last longer and, because they are constantly lit when the layout is in operation, they are the larger portion of the draw on your power source.

In fact, replacing filament-style bulbs with LED's is a worthwhile effort for all your accessories...and rolling stock with lights.  Personally, I've got a l-o-n-g way to go to finish that project on my own layout, but it's no brainer.  I figure when I finally get around to replacing all of the lights with LED's in my passenger car fleet, GRJ will be able to take that trip to Tahiti he's probably dreamed about!

Mannyrock,

Friendly suggestion:  Look into to getting a ZW transformer. You can get refurbished ZWs in excellent shape (there used to be some guys here on the forum who specialized) at reasonable prices. I think you'd be happy with it and you can quit fooling around with stringing together multiple transformers.

You've got four "channels," A, B, C, & D, and can use two for trains and the other two for accessories and lights. Run some bus lines out and tap into those. I'm sure it'll meet your needs.

I have a medium size Postwar style layout and use a ZW to run multiple trains and all my accessories (including a Gateman), building and tower lights, trackside signals and lights.

With a ZW, you're one and done!

@dkdkrd posted:

Re power consumption of track switches...

First of all, unless all 12 switches are activated at the same moment, power consumption to activate is momentary, one switch at a time, typically.  Whether you have a couple switches or a hundred, if they're activated one at a time, that portion of their power consumption would be the same

He's already at 90+ watts with just the bulbs on 12 switches.

As recommended to me last year, I already replaced all of the lantern bulbs with clear LED bulbs.  And, I went ahead and replaced all of the big switch controller bulbs, with the smaller LED lantern bulbs as well.

Thanks for all of the info.

Mannyrock