Toy Model Trains

Brass Model Trains – Extremely Unique

Michael — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 02:35:03 +0000

For the ultimate collector “Brass Model Trains” may be the perfect choice. These toy model trains are made of solid brass and henceforth have an artistic quality to them. Due to the nature of the material the craftsmanship and uniqueness of the pieces are outstanding. However, there is one slight drawback to the Brass Model Trains, the cost. The old saying “you get what you pay for” is not only fact but also the standard. Brass Model Trains are the “Gold” standard of toy model trains. Prices for these trains range upward to $2000 or more and raises the question of are these trains worth collecting. You are about to find out!

It is hard to say what is more important to a collector, appearance or resale value. Brass Model Trains have both. The quality of material, intricate detailing and overall appearance of these models gives the owner pride in the quality of their collection. Some trains in their natural color almost look as if they were made out of gold and that in turn keeps their resale value extremely high. Due to the craftsmanship, look and cost of these toy model trains they are unique within a unique market. The model train collection market is a small niche but to be a niche within a niche makes the Brass Model Trains extremely rare and unique. Collectors like that aspect. The downside of collecting these unique trains is the cost. They can run more than twice the price of a standard composition train. If a collector wants a vintage brass model train he will pay even more than that since they are extremely rare.

Before you begin delving into these beautiful specimens consider the most important element of collecting brass model trains. Think about brass and how time and weather affects it. Now consider the value of your collection and the time and effort that it will require to properly clean, polish and protect your investment. If for some reason you are not able to give your collection enough care it will begin to turn black and on the other extreme, too much polishing will damage the collection. Caring for these pieces of art is a full time endeavor and requires a lot of work.

For many toy model trains enthusiast realism is the key to their entire collection. To the best of my knowledge there has never been a working locomotive that was made out of brass. So as interesting, valuable and decorative as these pieces are they are not typical of a working train and therefore not realistic. What you may want to consider is adding a piece or two of brass model trains to your collection as basically pieces of art to be showcased in you office or home while using a more traditional approach to you toy model train collection. Of course this really depend on what your purpose in collecting the trains is all about. Many collectors like to purchase sets and pieces that never leave the box and are displayed and traded like commodities while other are more like me in that they prefer to build lavish model train scenery layouts that consist of cities, switching yards, trains stations, mountain, etc. Brass Model Trains are very unique and it really depends on the collector’s personality and intentions of whether these models will be a good fit. To each his own, as they say.

By the way, I own one and it is proudly displayed in my office!

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Model Train Scale – What does that mean?

Michael — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:44:43 +0000

Model trains are available in a variety of different sizes that are denoted as scales. This spectrum of sizes ranges from miniature train sets to large models that designed to be set up outdoors. There are two terms used in association of collecting model trains, they are gauge and scale. Scale is used to describe the ratio of a model to the actual train that it depicts and gauge refers to the track width.

When it comes to model railroad collecting the choice of scale is usually the most important aspect that needs to be decided before the collection can start. It is a matter of personal preference as well as experience and don’t forget what may be the most important part of the equation, which is your budget. Although there are many different scales available for you to choose from the HO is one of the most popular.

The HO model train scale is by far the most common amongst the scales. The approximate ratio of HO model trains is 1:87. You will also be able to find variations in the HO scales. The HO is popular since it comes in various gauges and is very easy to work with. The detail is outstanding and the size of the train is somewhat like a popular fairytale. It’s size is not to small, it’s not to big…..it’s just right!

Not only will you be able to find HO model trains with utmost ease but also one of the biggest advantages of sticking to this scale is that you will easily be able to find a wide variety of accessories with which you can enhance your model train display.

Next in line on the popularity chart is the N scale model trains. The N scale has the ratio of 1:160 that makes them considerably smaller than the HO. For my taste the N scale is to small and the detailing on the locomotives and cars is not as intricate as on the HO scale. One other detail that should be mentioned is that accessories for the N scale are much less available than for the HO and other model trains because their small size makes them complex and difficult to work with and the number of units sold has reduced worldwide demand therefore making this a difficult train to collect. However there is one big benefit with this standard and that is the fact that you can set up an extensive railroading track in a relatively small space. The N scale tends to be more popular with kids and individuals that have limited space to work with and are not interested in large detailed railroad layouts.

The other three scales in the fab five list are the O (1:48), the Z (1:220) and the big daddy himself, the G (1:24). There are other scales available but are not considered to be big collector items since their popularity is so small. The fewer retail units sold means fewer accessories. Collectors tend to lean toward the fab five and then it is the individual’s personal taste in scale that seems to be the determining factor in their collection. So spend some time and consider your space, your budget and your personal taste and come on aboard.

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Model Steam Trains – A Good Quality Locomotive Will Make All The Difference!

Michael — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:53:25 +0000

It can be very frustrating having a locomotive that you need to push to get going, or it suddenly speeds up and falls off the tracks.

A locomotive runs by picking up the electricity from the track through its wheels. The wheels transfer the electricity to the motor, which then turns the gears to drive the locomotive.

A locomotive with poor pickup on the wheels or a poor gear set up will give you lots of problems. As with most things, you get what you pay for… but this is one area you do not want to skimp on. A great operating locomotive is 90% of the way to having a fantastic model train layout.

When buying a locomotive these points are critical:

The amount of metal wheels that pick up the electricity – the more the better, but definitely more than 1 set.

A good gearing ratio and motor which requires the least amount of electricity to move the locomotive, with a slow but smooth start.

Flywheels at one or both ends of the motor to ensure a smooth take off and smooth stop.

The weight of the locomotive should be just right to maintain a good connection to the track at all times but not too heavy to make the locomotive sluggish.

The length of the locomotive – shorter diesel locomotives are less likely to derail on the curves than longer steam locomotives.

Most hobby shops will let you test the locomotive on their in-house test tracks before you buy.

Test the locomotive forwards and backwards… Check for a nice smooth take off and a nice smooth stop when the power is ramped up or down.

I usually go into my local hobby shop after doing my research online, test the locomotive, and then purchase online…

That tip has saved me nearly 30% of the retail price in some cases…

Buy quality when you buy your locomotives… I guarantee the investment will be well worth it.

Act Now! It’s a “No-Brainer” Decision
Beginners Click Here: Model Trains For Beginners
Experts Click Here: Model Train Help
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You also get “The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains” with proof of purchase a $19.95 value added bonus!

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Model Train Table – How To Avoid Model Railroad Derailments

Michael — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:51:50 +0000

Are you frustrated because your model trains derail from time to time?

This was a major frustration for me. I would fix one section of the track and the next day the train would derail on another section.

It frustrated me to the point of wanting to give the hobby away..!

A smooth running model train is a dream for most model train beginners. But it is actually quite easy to achieve with a little attention to detail.

Here are 7 ways to stop your model train derailing:

1 – Ensure every joint on your track is level, aligned and properly fitted.

Sounds like common sense? But poorly assembled track joints are the worst offenders for derailing model trains.

Slide your finger across the joint. It should feel level with the gap between the tracks kept to the absolute minimum. I solder my joints because this stops any problems with expansion and contraction opening and closing of the joints.

With a small file I am able to create a continuously level track and have a beautifully smooth running model train.

2 – Check your track gauge on joints, turnouts and frog assemblies.

Another common problem for model train derailments is incorrect track gauge. A tight track gauge will cause the wheels to climb up and derail off the track.

A wide track gauge will also derail your model train as the wheel flanges can not span the track properly. The gauge can be adjusted using a soldering iron to gently heat the rail, moving the rail to the correct position and allowing it to cool.

3 – Check your switch points for sharpness when they switch.

Some new switch points can be fairly blunt on the movable section where it strikes up against the stock rails. This can grab on the wheels and cause a model train derailment.

A small file can be used to gently smooth the moveable part of the points to allow a nice smooth transition. Remember to check the gauge in both positions.

4 – Check all your model train couplers.

A snagging coupler will cause model train derailments. Some new carriages can come with unpolished couplers which can catch and force derailments.

Clean off any rough edges and adjust the couplers for proper centering. The manufacturers usually provide these instructions.

5 – Add extra weight to your freight cars.

I find that most freight cars are too light and sometimes all the wheels do not contact the rails equally. By adding a small amount of weight to the cars your model train will run smoother and you will eliminate derailments, especially on the tight radius’s.

Just make sure you add the weight as low as possible to the car and in the centre, keeping a low center of gravity.

6 – Check all your wheel sets for proper operation.

Wheel sets that are out of gauge, not aligned or moving freely will cause your model train to derail. Check your wheel sets and make sure that your carriages are not crabbing and forcing the wheel flanges into the rail, making it prone to derail.

The carriages should rock freely to take up any small imperfections in your track.

7 – Lubricate the squeaks.

Sometimes the smallest drop of light oil will cure a problem with your model train derailing. An unlubricated or snaggy wheel, or coupler, can cause a slight tip over, or jar, which usually forces the wheel flange to snag the rail and derail your model train.

Oil attracts dust and can damage paintwork, so make sure you use only the smallest amount required.

Now you have no reason to put up with your model train derailing.

It usually comes down to a small bit of maintenance from time to time. With the quality most manufacturers are producing today, and some ongoing maintenance, you can make model train derailments a thing of the past.

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Model Steam Trains – How Model Train Locomotives Work

Michael — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:40:32 +0000

A locomotive runs by picking up an electrical current from the metal rails through metal wheels that ride on the rails. The electricity is transferred from the wheels to the motor, which causes the motor to run.

The motor connects to the wheels through a mechanical drive system. When the electricity turns the motor, the motor turns the gears that turn the wheels and push the locomotive along the train tracks. Simple!

The contact point where your locomotive wheel meets the rail is extremely small. That’s why; it doesn’t take much in the way of dirt, dust, or debris to obstruct the wheel-to-rail contact. Dirt can build up, so it is important that you keep the wheels clean and free of accumulated dirt. If the wheels of your locomotive become dirty, they may not make good contact with the metal rails, and your train will stall. Remember, plastic wheels don’t conduct electricity.

Locomotive Wheels And Locomotive Gears

A good locomotive needs lots of wheels and lots of gears. A poor performing locomotive is often because of the gears and/or the wheels. Although in saying that, some locomotives with only a few wheels work surprisingly well… although it is considered to be unusual, rather than the norm.

By Robert Anderson – Author of the best-selling Model Train Help ebook.

Act Now! It’s a “No-Brainer” Decision
Beginners Click Here: Model Trains For Beginners
Experts Click Here: Model Train Help
It’s a 60 day, 100% Money-Back Guarantee

You also get “The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains” with proof of purchase a $19.95 value added bonus!

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Model Train Table – How Model Train Classification Yards Work

Michael — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:22:46 +0000

Most model railroaders have far more cars (rolling stock) and locomotives than they can possibly operate at once. One option is to simply store excess rolling stock and locomotives in boxes or on display shelves or cabinets. It is possible, however, to store all of your extra equipment and trains on tracks in a yard that may or may not be part of the visible operating portion of your model train layout.

However, design mistakes are a common feature of model railroad yard layouts. Yards don’t always work out as well as they should. A major cause is the lack of available information on how to design a good model railroad yard layout. Without the resources, model railroaders are forced into a lot of guesswork.

Model Train Yard Layout Compression

Apart from the lack of available information on model railroad yards, another cause for less than satisfactory model railroad yard designs, is the need to compress a model railroad layout into the space available. ‘Compression’ is the model railroaders enemy, but in most cases, necessary.

Let’s start by looking at the make up of real classification yards. Generally, they are huge. They often consist of many smaller special-purpose rail yards, that collectively, add up to a complex array of train track.

It is commonplace for there to be three separate double-ended rail yards strung one after the other. These are designed to move train traffic efficiently and usually comprise: an arrival yard, a classification yard, and a departure yard.

The Arrival Yard On Model Train Layouts

The arrival yard is where arriving trains drop off the cars of their train. The cars are then moved to the classification yard, being switched back and forth as necessary to get the right cars onto the right trains. The trains are then built out and moved to the departure yard. After getting a new caboose and locomotive, they then proceed to their next destination.

For more information on yard designs read the best-selling Model Train Help ebook by Robert Anderson (Highly Recommended).

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Model Train Table – Why Build A Branch Line Model Train Layout?

Michael — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:17:29 +0000

Branch lines are a popular theme for small model train layouts. A branch line is a quieter alternative to a main line layout and can be fascinating to build and operate. Although not always the case, a branch line layout generally requires less rolling stock. It can also mean greater flexibility in the complexity of your track plan depending on what you want to achieve.

Building a branch line is a favorite for many model railroaders, because it can allow more opportunities to include small dioramas within the model train layout.

More About Model Train Branch Lines

A branch line will commonly have a small station where trains can pass. The station has some shunting possibilities, e.g. serving a freight shed. To make the operations more interesting a “shadow station” or passing loop can be added to a branch line layout.

For for ideas on planning a branch line layout see the section in the Model Train Help Book.

Many branch line layout designs consist of an oval shaped line, though on a shelf-based layout an out-and-back format is also reasonably common. The branch line theme often includes mixed freight and passenger trains running to a timetable-based operation.

Why Model Train Branch Lines Are So Much Fun

Most branch lines run through countryside giving the possibility for creating some truly amazing scenery. But, when creating a small layout branch line, you’ll need to accept that it can be hard to depict the wide-open space of the countryside on a small train layout. One option is to use forests to “box-in” the scene. Another option, which works well, is to depict a branch line in a cityscape. This makes sense considering that most branch lines start off in a larger town. That way you can build a small station located in this larger town. The buildings will have the same effect of “boxing-in” the theme.

Plus you can add connections to several industries, although this does conflict with a countryside theme.

By Robert Anderson – Author of the best-selling Model Train Help ebook.

Act Now! It’s a “No-Brainer” Decision
Beginners Click Here: Model Trains For Beginners
Experts Click Here: Model Train Help
It’s a 60 day, 100% Money-Back Guarantee

You also get “The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains” with proof of purchase a $19.95 value added bonus!

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Model Train Scenery – How Layouts Works And What Can Go Wrong!

Michael — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:13:35 +0000

Model train track consists of two metal rails separated by plastic tie sections. Each rail carries one side of the electrical circuit. To work properly, the two rails should not contact each other and no metal object should contact both rails together. This would cause a short circuit, which could damage your model train power pack if it happened too often.

With this in mind, assemble your model train track and connect the power pack… and you’ll be ready to start operating your model trains. It is as easy as plugging in the power pack, carefully placing the locomotive on the train track, turning up the throttle…and enjoying!

More About Model Train Tracks

It’s best to set up your train track on a sheet of plywood, a tabletop, or other hard surface. Carpet fuzz and floor dirt can hamper smooth train operation.

Model train track comes in different types made of brass, zinc-coated steel, nickel silver and steel. Regardless of what the train tracks are made of, most track sets come with a terminal section so that you can hook into the transformer. Brass track and zinc-coated steel track are common in starter sets and, when purchased separately, are usually cheaper in price than nickel silver tracks.

By Robert Anderson – Author of the best-selling Model Train Help ebook.

Act Now! It’s a “No-Brainer” Decision
Beginners Click Here: Model Trains For Beginners
Experts Click Here: Model Train Help
It’s a 60 day, 100% Money-Back Guarantee

You also get “The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains” with proof of purchase a $19.95 value added bonus!

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HO Model Train Layout – Planning For A Small Space?

Michael — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 06:10:57 +0000

When you plan a small model train layout, it’s important that you know the limitations the small space imposes on you and your model train set.

Although the space you have available for your RR layout might limit your choice of scales, the major limitation is usually in the choice of themes you can model. In most cases main line model train themes wouldn’t fit. Whereas, given that you only have a limited space available for your layout; industrial, branch line and tramway themes are possibly the best model train layout options to consider. If you must have a mainline theme, but don’t have space for it, then you’ll probably have to scale your model train layout down.

If don’t want to compromise, then don’t start a small model train layout.

There are a number of differences that you will need to accept or adapt yourself to when choosing a small layout: the curves may be too sharp, the angles of the switches may be too steep, and the sidings too short. With a small layout everything is compressed to the max. But when you think about it, although a small layout may not be your first choice, it is better than no train set at all!

By Robert Anderson – Author of the best-selling Model Train Help ebook.

Act Now! It’s a “No-Brainer” Decision
Beginners Click Here: Model Trains For Beginners
Experts Click Here: Model Train Help
It’s a 60 day, 100% Money-Back Guarantee

You also get “The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains” with proof of purchase a $19.95 value added bonus!

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Model Train Table – What Model Railroaders Get From The Hobby

Michael — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 06:07:22 +0000

If you ask model railway enthusiasts “what appeals about the hobby?” you’ll get a variety of answers. For some model railway enthusiasts, it is a way of re-creating a fond childhood memory. Others; simply enjoy building a world in miniature with all its detail and realism. Then there are those model railway enthusiasts who love solving the technical problems of building and operating an electronic control system.

It doesn’t seem to matter whether you’re 5 or 95… or somewhere in between. The personal satisfaction of building and operating a realistic miniature railway layout is rewarding and fun… no matter how old you are. Model railroading is a truly rewarding leisure activity that will keep most model railway enthusiasts busy and entertained for hours…if not a lifetime.

The Model Railroaders Own Wonderful World

Model railroading is a fun-filled leisure activity that provides plenty of scope for the creative individual with a technical bent. It incorporates a variety of interesting activities from building, maintaining, upgrading and operating a model railway. What kind of world you create, where you create it, and how much time you spend in it… is entirely over to the individual model railroading enthusiast. We are all different.

A model railroader can build a layout in the solitude of his or her basement, attic, shed or garage workshop…or they can sit in a sun lounger and watch trains weave around their garden… or the model railway enthusiast can join a local model railroad club and share their model railway ideas and experiences with others. The opportunities for the model railroading enthusiast are endless!

‘We don’t stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing’ George Bernard Shaw

By Robert Anderson – Author of the best-selling Model Train Help ebook.

Act Now! It’s a “No-Brainer” Decision
Beginners Click Here: Model Trains For Beginners
Experts Click Here: Model Train Help
It’s a 60 day, 100% Money-Back Guarantee

You also get “The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains” with proof of purchase a $19.95 value added bonus!

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