Crossing Gates

Try Z-Stuff for Trains.

I second the Z-Stuff gates. Look great, acurate scale, sound, lights, and adjustable activation timing.

Thanks for the advise/ Great pics, what detail!

While we are on the topic, can anybody explain exactly how old-style (1950s) manually-controlled crossing gates worked mechanically and how they were controlled?  I am working on a scratchbuilt crossing shanty, and I need to know the details.  

Were they pneumatic, hydraulic, steam, electric, or what? I know that watchman towers sometimes had some kind of control chains hanging down, but I don't understand the principles.  

Any insight would be appreciated.

Thanks,

--Pete