Milwaukee, Wis. - Walthers announces the addition of the Pneumatic Crossing Gates to its Cornerstone Series® Built-ups line. This new HO Scale accessory (#933-2312, $24.98) includes two positionable gates, which can be also adapted to various drive systems (sold separately) if desired, and is scheduled for delivery in October 2007.

By the late 19th century, traffic in large cities was creating new headaches for the railroads. Frequent train movements and limited visibility required that a watchman be on duty to stop traffic at nearly every street crossing - at the busiest locations, manually operated gates were also installed. While the system worked, it was expensive and railroads soon began looking for ways to simplify the operation. Among the various types of gate controls invented in the 20th century was a pneumatic system. Using a simple hand pump, control valves and underground pipes, a watchman could easily pressurize the system and raise or lower several gates individually or at once. These systems were ideal for use at busy passenger terminals and freight yards, and the crossings were often further modernized with elevated shanties to allow the watchman a better view of approaching train and highway traffic. Many remained in use into the 1950s until fully automated electrically driven gates replaced them.

The fully assembled Pneumatic Crossing Gates are ready for use on steam-era layouts. Designed to pivot, the gates can be displayed in either the up or down position, or adapted to any drive system (sold separately) for automated operation. Basic installation instructions are provided for powering the gates.

For more information on Walthers Pneumatic Crossing Gates or to locate a dealer, visit Walthers on the Internet at www.walthers.com. Call 414-527-0770 or write Walthers, P.O. Box 3039, Milwaukee, WI 53201-3039.