Posts Tagged ‘model railroads’

G Scale Model Trains Videos

File:G Scale Train Model and ...

Utilizing G Scale Model Trains

Author: iris bell

G scale model trains are an amazing piece of engineering. Not only are they the largest of the model trains, they are also the easiest to work with. In case you are not up to date with model train terminology we will talk a bit about the different scales. The first thing you need to know is that model trains are standardized to a point that everyone can use the same equipment.

There was a time when this simply was not so. In the beginning of the model train hobby trains were made of different sizes, shapes, and orientations. If you bought track for one train there was a chance that it would simply fail to work with a different brand. It wasn't long before someone determined there was indeed a need to standardize both the trains and the tracks, making it necessary to assign scales to the trains.

There are many scales, but the G scale stands for Garden Variety. In other words it is very common and it is very large. This type of train is so large in fact that you will rarely see a full scale scenery for it and it is commonly used in outdoor gardens. Something to note about the G scale model trains is that they are nearly impossible to break. This includes exposure to the elements and even children.

If the G scale model train does happen to break you will find that the parts within are extremely large and easy to work with. You can replace the parts or you can repair them if the situation happens to permit. In addition to that, the large size of the train makes it much easier to add DCC control if you so desire.

While there is not much you can do in the way of scenery, you can certainly get creative with your G scale model trains. For instance it would be a good idea to run a track through your house either at floor level or at ceiling level. Many people have actually tried running track through their walls and into the backyard. With elevated tracks and plexiglass barriers to keep the train from falling, these make a great addition to a property for virtually train lover.

As we've stated though, the G scale is very large and should only be used by those who happen to have quite a bit of room. In addition to that the G scale will rarely be seen with a benchwork of it's own. Rather an entire room will become the benchwork for the train, and if that is something you can live with, you might just have a winner.

If you're ready to discover the joys of owning a G scale model train, then now is the time to start looking for the perfect train with the perfect theme. Like any other model train, these can be logging trains, passenger trains, or even cargo trains. The sky is the limit when it comes to G scale model trains.

 

 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/utilizing-g-scale-model-trains-3021010.html

About the Author

Want more valuable tips on setting up your own G Scale Model Railroads. Grab your copy of our free mini-course on model railway train secrets today at http://modelrailroadtraintips.com right now.



Free 00 Model Railway Layout Plans

Reflections from the House ...

Model Railroad Track Plans and Layout Information

Author: Steve Barnett

You can find all types of track plans that can be downloaded to your computer. Some of these track plans are free. One place to find free track plans is Atlas Railroad at http://www.atlasrr.com/. Atlas also offers a free download on their web site that allows you to create your own track plans using their track. Although the most fun way is to create your own from scratch. This way you have a one-of-a-kind layout. The first thing when preparing to build a layout is to figure out how much space you have for your model. Once you have the dimensions of your layout you probably need to sketch these on a piece of paper. Now you can start thinking about what gauge and era you want to model. The next step would be to decide if you are going to have mountains with maybe tunnels, or bridges crossing streams, or rivers. Also you may want your rail crossing over a deep valley or maybe an interstate highway. You will also, need to consider why your railroad exists. Your railroad needs a purpose like hauling raw materials to a factor or hauling coal from a mine or timber from the forest.

When you have all the information you need to start your layout you will need to start drawing this information on paper to get a rough idea of what you have. Once you have a drawing to work from you can build the bench work for your railroad making it stout and sturdy. Now you can use several different things for the foundation of your railroad. Probably the most used is plywood. You can start by covering your bench work with the plywood for a sound foundation. If you have rivers running through your layout you may want to cut the plywood where your rivers will run and remove it from your layout. You may also need to cut into some of the cross members on your bench work allowing your river to be deep enough. If you have to cut very deep into your cross members make sure you reinforce them with more boards.

Now that you have your foundation you can start building your terrain. To build mountains or hills you can build these up with Styrofoam or use screen wire covered with spackling compound either one will work well. While designing your terrain remember that the grade or rise of your train track should not be over 4o at maximum but the best is from 0o to 3o which means that for a 1% grade your track rise 1" for every 100". Another thing to keep in mind is that on your main lines you do not need sharp curves. Having sharp curves is probably one of the main reasons trains derail. The best track to use is flex track. This way you can make sweeping curves that make it easier for you locomotives to navigate around, but also give a more realistic look to you layout. No matter what never give up and always have fun with model railroading. For more information on mode railroad track plans visit http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/information-on-designing-model-railroad-track-plans/.

Thanks,

Steve Barnett

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/model-railroad-track-plans-and-layout-information-2991514.html

About the Author

Steve Barnett is a model train expert. For more information on mode railroad track plans visit http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/information-on-designing-model-railroad-track-plans/.


Free N Gauge Model Railway Layouts

South Florida Railway Museum ...

The O Model Railroad

Author: iris bell

The model railroading hobby has a rich history, and every type of train has it's very own story. Take the O model railroad for example. The O gauge is actually the 0 (zero) gauge and was created to be smaller than Gauge 1. This gauge was created by the train manufacturers due to the fact the smaller scale trains were selling better than the large scale models.

The reason for this was generally space. Many modelers were doing much more than just watching the train go around in circles. They were in fact creating elaborate scenery, and they simply could not do that quite as effectively with the larger trains. In 1929 it became clear that a depression was in the air and as a result the market for larger scale trains went down the drain.

Before the second world war, the sizes of the O model railroad trains varied greatly, but they were all capable of running on the same track. This made them highly compatible and even interchangeable for hobbysists. The O scale was truly setting a standard that many people never expected to see in their lifetime.

Following the second world war when materials were more plentiful these trains suddenly became more realistic than ever before. For the first time they were becoming larger and resembling real world trains. Hobbyists were becoming truly interested now and could create a real landscape in which their train could navigate.

Though they were quite realistic in their time, they only improved their aesthetic appearance through the seventies, eighties, and nineties. One thing to note though is that the O scale is nowhere near as popular as the H0 or N scale which are a bit smaller and more convenient. The one advantage that the O scale can claim is a more detailed exterior. Smaller models simply could not do that, though they can be fairly close to real-world trains.

The O model railroad is a choice, and it is one that you will have to make as the modeler. Make sure that you weigh your options and of course determine whether or not you really have the room for an O scale train in your home or building. It can be more difficult to build scenery for a larger train if you do not have an adequately sized house, and that may further you need for smaller trains. If you have the room however, or simply wish to enjoy a basic train without the scenery, the O model railroad might be your best bet.

Just remember to assess your needs and make sure you are doing the right thing. Choosing the right model train and accessories is never easy, and the true choice will come from within. So long as you remember that you will do great, and you might even find that the O model railroad is for you, especially if you're interested in using a piece of model train history that simply never gets old.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/the-o-model-railroad-3075120.html

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Want more valuable tips on setting up your own O Model Railroads. Grab your copy of our free mini-course on model railway train secrets today at http://modelrailroadtraintips.com right now.



Z Gauge Model Railway Layouts

 ... layout by richard turner

A Newbie Guide to Model Railroads

Author: Clint Spille

This is a general outline of what the model railroad hobby is and what it entails. In an attempt not to discourage new beginners to this ever growing pastime, this article will not be too technical yet designed to catch your interest. The chief thing that any model train enthusiast should know is about scale and gauge.

Scale refers to the actual size of the railroad engine, cars, and accessories. They can be little enough to easily fit on an office desk top, or large enough for a garden railway. Scale is also referred to in letter form. For instance, 'G' scale train models are 1:24 scale, which means it's just 1/24th the size of an actual train.

These are frequently found with train hobbyists who lay out their model trains in a back yard setting, such as interwoven throughout gardens, and other landscaping. The 'Z' scale is a mere 1:220, meaning it's two-hundred and twenty times smaller than an actual railroad. As mentioned previously, this size is perfect for a desk top lay out, but it's so little in size that they are tricky to work with, and aren't in wide use.

The next part regarding model railroads is gauge. Although this is frequently confused with scale by many beginners, it is NOT the same as scale, and mixing up the two will certainly irritate experienced railroad hobbyists. What gauge measures is the distance between the train track rails. For instance, if you have a nine gauge railroad track, this means that there is 9 millimeters of space between the inside of the rails. In this case, the larger the gauge, the larger the space.

Now despite the fact that this may seem a little confusing, do not worry. HO scale is 1:87, and is ideal for lots of new beginners, as well as many other enthusiasts. it is little enough to fit well with lots of various layouts, yet big enough for the average individual to handle, and they show well. This is the most commonly used scale in the model railroad world not only because of its versatility, but also because parts and accessories are easy to obtain.

This brings us to layouts and accessories. Having model railroads would be very boring if all it entailed was a train engine moving along a track. That's why a model train can include numerous various train cars, passenger cars, hoppers, and tank containers, just to name a few. Then there are all the layout accessories, trestles, miniature people and vehicles, as well as buildings and scenery.

The potential is really only limited to your imagination. You can even construct your own landscaping ideas, with artificial plants torn apart for trees, shrubs, and other plants. You could even use old cleaned out tin cans, painted, for things such as grain silos, or oil refinery tanks.

There are a lot of basic sets a beginner can buy, with all things to start your hobby. You can find many of these on websites, or you could also start at your local hobby shop. A retailer can not only offer a lot of various ideas, but can also answer lots of if not all of your questions. Hopefully you will want to know more information about model railroads, and you can find numerous example layouts online for creative ideas.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/a-newbie-guide-to-model-railroads-1354134.html

About the Author
For more information on model trains be sure to sign up for my free "Secrets to Successful Model Railroading!" mini-course. This mini-course covers many important aspects of model railroading including model train layouts, how to properly setup your track to avoid future problems, and much more.



Bachmann Trains On30

Bachmann Trains

Model Railroading from A to Z

Author: Larry Truett

A is for Atlas Model Railroad Company, the New Jersey based manufacturer of N, HO, and O scale trains, track, and accessories.

B is for Bachman, the Philadelphia based manufacturer of N, HO, and On30 scale trains, track, and accessories including the Plasticville® line.

C is for Caboose, which any good freight train needs at the end.

D is for Diesel, which some of the real locomotives use for fuel.

E is for Electricity, which most model trains use for power.

F is for Freight Train, which have boxcars and other rolling stock to carry goods.

G is for G Scale, (1:22.5) which are the huge (or Gross) model trains that can even be run in the Garden.

H is for H0 Scale, (1:87) which stands for "Half of O" and is the most popular scale for model railroaders.

I is for Impossible, which is what having too many trains is.

J is for Junction, where two things meet and is in many great names for model railway towns.

K is for Kit, which most scenery buildings come disassembled in.

L is for Lionel, the iconic maker of O scale trains.

M is for Model Railroading, which is building replica of a real life railroad system in reduced size.

N is for N Scale, (1:148 to 1:160) which are very small trains that allow for a big layout in a small space.

O is for O Scale, (1/48) which are big trains made popular in the USA by Lionel.

P is for Passenger Train, which carry people and ideally have sleek cars with big windows.

Q is for Quandry, which Q provides for this list.

R is for Roundhouse, where the locomotives sleep.

S is for Switch, which make the trains take different paths around the tracks.

T is for Track, which no model railroader can have enough of.

U is for Union Pacific, which is the largest and oldest railroad network in the USA.

V is for Vision, which all great layouts start out as.

W is for Weathering, where you take a brand new model and make it look older.

X is for X, which crossing tracks resemble.

Y is for Y, which most switch tracks resemble.

Z is for Z Scale, (1:220) which are tiny trains that allow for a big layout in a small space.

Check out my Model Railroading Site with listings of local hobby shops, model railroading clubs, railraoding museums, and more.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/model-railroading-from-a-to-z-1335322.html

About the Author

I'm a freelance PHP and MySQL programmer living in the San Carlos neighborhood of San Diego with my wife and our 3 cats. I enjoy hiking, reading, gardening, watching too much television, and other nerdy activites.



N Scale Model Train Track Plans

Scale Model Railroad

Let's Take A Look At The N Model Railroad Scale

Author: Clint Spille

Many people think that the N model railroad scale is smaller than they can deal with. N is a small train, only 1:160 the size of a life size engine, and half as small as the more popular HO scale.

It's true that this size shouldn't be used by children under 5 at any time, and from 5-12, under adult supervision. It is a harder unit to deal with for people with large hands, poor eyesight, and arthritis, but other than that, anyone else can easily handle this scale.

There are many advantages with N scale trains. The first thing right away is that many of these models run on batteries, with no need to have them plugged in.

While these don't perform as well as electric models, you have less to worry about. Because these trains are small and lightweight, they are ideal for people who like to run long strings of passenger or freight cars.

One of the biggest advantages of N scale size is that hobbyists who don't have a lot of space, or like to take their trains and display them at shows, can have at it with this scale. It is perfect for small spaces, since many layouts can be set up on tables less than 8'x4,' and in fact can be fully set up on spaces quite smaller.

These can easily be transported from one show to another, without having to take them apart all the time. You can store them in smaller spaces, and pack up nice and neatly.

Anyone who says there aren't very many accessories hasn't had very much experience with this scale. It's true that you may only find a limited amount when going to a local retailer, but there are many basic sets available, even at these outlets.

You can also find this scale at toys stores, and mass-marketing retailers. You will find an abundance of websites, dedicated to these trains, and track styles, but also for scenery, trees, shrubs, and figurines.

There are whole sets of accessories offered, from landscaping, buildings, and figurines, all just right proportions to the size of the locomotive and cars.

The holidays bring lots of excitement, and with these trains, the holidays are king. There are many sets just made for Christmas time, with buildings that play music, real working lights and even festive locomotives and trains.

Some of these steam replicas even emit real puffs of smoke and have festive bells and whistle sounds, all operated on batteries, or easily plugged into any outlet. Some of these festive sets are even offered for under 0, and in some cases, just around fifty.

A simple web search will reveal lists of thousands of pictures and video of sample layouts, from actual train enthusiasts. You can plan your track strategies from these, or sit back and think of you own imaginative layout designs.

There will be no trouble finding locomotives, cars of all descriptions, and enough scenery to last a lifetime. It won't take long before you are up and running, commanding your trains to your heart's desire.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/lets-take-a-look-at-the-n-model-railroad-scale-1617799.html

About the Author

Clint Spille is a model trains enthusiast who enjoys blogging about the World's Greatest Hobby. Stop by his blog where you can read his many articles on the model railroading hobby or watch the videos he provides on topics such as model railroad track plans, model train scale and much more!


Making Model Railway Scenery

 Forums - Model Railway ...

Model Train Scenery -- Dispelling the Myths about Making Your Own

Author: iris bell

Uncover the real facts about model train scenery, should you settle for pre-made pieces or try to make your own? Many model train enthusiasts believe it is just too hard or you need special materials to construct your own scenery when actually it is simple and requires no more of an “artsy” turn of mind than building the model itself.

The Challenge – Realistic Results on a Miniature Budget

Face it modeling can be an expensive and fulfilling hobby. However, for those either who do not have unlimited funds or, who want to recreate a scene for which buildings and other items may not be available, then making your own scenery for your model trains layout, is an answer. It requires some time, perhaps some experimentation, and a fully stocked garage with lots of miscellaneous items does not hurt.

The Answer – Create Your Own

Dirt roads, snow banks, even sandy beaches cannot be easily simulated with real dirt or sand; it looks too large when placed in a miniature scene. However, talcum powder mixed with a coloring can produce excellent results without looking like there are boulders in your dirt road.

Sheets of ice in a pond, any surface that needs sheen can be simulated with wax paper.

Perhaps you have an idyllic country cottage in your scenery and a simple grass lawn will not do it. Why not use herbs for the hedges or bushes or vegetation instead of buying premade items. Dried and coated these homemade scenery items will last as long as the premade and look even better since you made them to suit.

Roads for automobiles are always a tough one to solve because finding something small enough and yet granular to make the surface from can be an issue. However, hobby stores can supply “materials in a jar” which when applied to a layer of scenic glue can simulate cement, asphalt or even grass surfaces.

Crushed nuts can also be coated and painted to make a suitable asphalt surface. The trick there is to crush them finely enough to be realistic and retain the granular quality.

Depending upon the scale of your model trains such elements found in nature as twigs and small grass can add a wild look to forested areas. If you wish to get into real detail, entire trees can be constructed of twigs and herbs. This obviously will need to be scaled for different sizes, as the N scale will require much smaller details than the HO or O scales.

While planning your layout and placing the elements of your railroad and scenery on paper, bear in mind the relative sizes. Then peruse your garage or your local hobby store for elements you can make yourself, in general these will be most pleasing to you and complimentary to your scene.

Additions to your scenery such as train signals can also be made by hand using two small LED lights, some creative cutting of cardboard or poster board to construct the outer casing of the signals and a straw for a pole through which the small gauge wire powering your lights will run. Paint it grey and black and you will have your own model signal for your scenery. An on off switch is also necessary to control the lights.

Making your own model train scenery and you may well help you uncover an exciting new facet to your model trains hobby.

 

 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/model-train-scenery-dispelling-the-myths-about-making-your-own-3122868.html

About the Author

Want more valuable tips on setting up your own Model Train Railroads. Grab your copy of our free mini-course on model railway train secrets today at http://modelrailroadtraintips.com right now.



Model Power Train Sets

 ... Power Train City layout

A Quick Look At Model Train Sets

Author: Clint Spille

There are probably as many model train sets as there are different kinds of trains. It is not hard to find them online, or at your local hobby shop. From exact replicas of antique locomotives, fancy, futuristic mono rail trains, and just about everything in between.

Many of these sets not only include the engine, cars, tracks on transformers, but also all the scenery and buildings you will need to start a basic layout. One very unique and cool model train sets is called the New Bright Sleigh Bell Holiday Express G.

This set is decorated in bright holiday colors, and includes the engine and coal car, a passenger car and caboose. It also has 75 individual lights, plays Christmas songs, and has the sound of a bell or whistle.

It includes a water tower, 12 curved and 8 straight tracks, the transformer which can easily power all this set has to offer. Other New Bright add on cars will NOT fit this set, however there are more Holiday Express accessory cars available.

While the transformer will power up to 80 feet of track, if you decide to purchase the optional musical clock tower, you may not have enough power to run all of it at the same time. While this unique set lists as much as 5, it can be found in many places for well under 0.

Another of the popular model train sets is the Bachmann Digital commander Deluxe HO Set, model number 00501. This set has two trains, and includes new DCC On Board technology, that allows you to be able to operate both trains separately, but at the same time.

The exclusive E-Z Command digital control systems gives separate control over speed lighting and the direction of both train. This train set includes both a EMD FT locomotive, (Santa Fe,) and the EMD GP40 (Union Pacific) engine.

One terminal rerailer, 3 freight cars, and a caboose. It also includes enough track to make a 47x38" oval track, and of course the command center, power pack and magnets.

It also includes a DVD E-Z command instruction video, and illustrated manual. While the list price is close to three hundred dollars, may retailers offer this set for well under two hundred.

This is just a small sampling of all that is available for model train sets. This doesn't even include any of the accessories and kits offered.

You have town sets, which there are may varieties, as well as many scenery packs, and even trestle packages, enough to set up a mountain pass layout. If you want other ideas on layout designs, you can easily find videos and photos of many an enthusiasts creations.

It is really only limited by your budget and imagination. There are many communities of model train enthusiasts, and in many areas there are even museums, and shows set up just for model trains.

There are even contests held to see who has the most elaborate model train sets and set up, and it isn't limited to the indoors, and many bigger sets are used in outdoor garden and landscaping settings.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/a-quick-look-at-model-train-sets-1617770.html

About the Author

Clint Spille is a model trains enthusiast who enjoys blogging about the World's Greatest Hobby. Stop by his blog where you can read his many articles on the model railroading hobby or watch the videos he provides on topics such as model trains ho scale, toy model trains and much more!



N Gauge Model Railway Track Plans

PB4 N Track Plans - Stockton ...

Making Your Model Railroad Track Plans

Author: iris bell

When one is getting ready to create a model railroad, it is important to have some model railroad track plans laid out ahead of time. There are a number of different ways you might prepare your model railroad track and it will all depend on exactly how detailed you want to get with your layout.

First of all you need to determine whether or not you want a three dimensional landscape. Naturally the landscape will always be three dimensional, but when you involve sloping landscapes and mountains it becomes a bit more complicated. You may need your track to run up the side of a hill, or you might need it to run through a tunnel. If you try to do this all on a whim, you might find that your layout does not work very well.

Before you begin building it would be a good idea to search online for other model railroad track plans. You might not follow them exactly, but looking at them carefully can give you a good idea of what you will be undertaking. If you have some understanding, then at the very least you can hope to create an effective model.

The basis of all model railroad track plans is the benchwork. The benchwork will determine how large your scenery will be, and even whether or not it is mobile. If you are planning to take your benchwork to train shows or even move it about the house, it would be a good idea to make sure everything comes apart in some way. Most people will allow the benchwork to be separated at some point which is especially good for the DCC control system if you happen to have one.

The bottom of the benchwork is often home to a series of wires which control the model train's movements. Not everyone will use DCC control, but there are many electric train models that simply use a basic on and off switch. Some people however will choose to utilize a steam powered engine, and in the past this was actually powered by oil. These days you would use pellets power the train, and you can learn more about this at your local hobby shop.

Your benchwork needs to be built around the power supply you plan to use for your train. You might choose to utilize steam, you might choose electricity, but no matter what, you need to make sure your setup will work properly. For this reason it would be prudent to go over your model railroad track plans several times before you implement anything, and if possible talk to an expert. You would be surprised at how willing experts will be to go over your model railroad track plans with you, and make sure you are on the right track, so to say. So without further delay, it's time for you to get out there and see what you can build. You might just be surprised at yourself.

 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/making-your-model-railroad-track-plans-3105339.html

About the Author

Want more valuable tips on setting up your own Model Train Railroads. Grab your copy of our free mini-course on model railway train secrets today at http://modelrailroadtraintips.com right now.


N Gauge Model Railways Uk

 ... Farm - Mikron Model Railways

Model Railway Trains -- A Leading Hobby

Author: iris bell

Many people wonder why model railway trains are so popular. They often think of these as toys and nothing more, but model railway trains are much, much more than simple toys. They are in fact amazing pieces of machinery that can not only simulate a real world train, but can also provide a level of joy and amusement that one could previously only find in their childhood days.

When you were young there is a chance that you thought about becoming a train engineer, but as you grew older you discovered that it either did not pay as much as you thought, or perhaps you found something else you were interested in. Either way, reality sinks in pretty hard at times, but not all is lost! We can once again experience the thrill of a train by taking advantage of model railway trains.

One of the most interesting things about model trains is that they can be virtually any theme, virtually any type of scenery, and you can choose your control scheme freely. If you wish, your train could run on batteries, electricity, or even steam if you so desire. Keep in mind that steam is a bit more expensive, but you will pay the price for any type of power source you choose.

There are several different train sizes that you might choose, and they range from the N scale to the G scale. The G scale is not widely used, but for those who have the room it is a wonderful addition to an attic or garden. The N scale is small enough to be used virtually anywhere even though it does not work well with DCC. It will work, but you need an expert to perform the board installation if you want to get anywhere.

The tracks for model trains come in a huge variety, from curved pieces, to straight pieces, and you can even find flexible track that will permit you to create a course in any way you can imagine. Flexible tracks will prove to be quite useful for those who have complex terrain as they will not need to compromise their design in order to accommodate the track. As you probably know by now, no one wants to move a body of water two inches to the left just because they did not account for the size and position of the track.

On that note, benchwork is yet another very important part of your model trains. The right benchwork can spell success, and the wrong benchwork can spell annoyance. It is most important that you build or choose benchwork that can be easily disassembled, especially if you plan to take your model railway trains to shows or even move them in the future. If your benchwork is too permanent you will not be able to take it anywhere, and this can get to be a problem. So with that in mind choose the right benchwork as well as any other accessories for your railway model train.

 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/model-railway-trains-a-leading-hobby-3011105.html

About the Author

Want more valuable tips on setting up your own Model Train Railroads. Grab your copy of our free mini-course on model railway train secrets today at http://modelrailroadtraintips.com right now.