100's Model Train Tips, Ideas & Veteran Model Railroader Secrets!
Attention: Model Railroad Enthusiasts.
Veteran Model Railroaders Reveal
How You Can Save Money, Time & Stress... As They Guide You Step-By-Step To Quickly Build, Maintain & Repair Your VERY OWN Realistic Model Railroad!
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Locating Your Model Train Layout
Locate your model train layout with care. The amount of available space you have will influence what you end up modeling. There is no point in trying to build a model train layout with several stations, goods yard, bridges and villages etc., if it needs to be cramped into the corner of the spare bedroom. Not that you can't be ambitious as long as you are realistic.
A table or a simple raised platform usually works well for setting up a model train set. You can make a platform by placing some plywood on a pair of saw-horses or some other raised support. The train will run a lot better if it�s secured to a hard surface like plywood. The model train set is also better to be raised to a comfortable height above the floor.
Where Not To locate A Model Train Layout
It's usually best not to display your model train set on the floor. Carpet and rails don�t mix because being low to the floor your model train set will attract pet hair, dirt, dust and debris that can stick to the train tracks and get into the locomotive engine. The floor is not a good location, because pets, or children might damage the model train set, it may even cause someone to trip and/or injure himself or herself.
How To Create A Small Model Train Layout
If you only have a small space in which to set up your model train layout, then you are not alone. There are a lot of model train
enthusiasts around in apartments and small houses with only limited space
at their disposal to set up a model train layout. In this situation an
H0 scale (1:87) model train set is a possibility, but the smaller N (1:160)
or Z (1:220) scale model train sets may be more feasible. When you use
a smaller scale or narrow gauge, you'll need less space for your model
train layout, or can use the available space to achieve smoother curves
and switches.
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 model train layout: the curves may be
too sharp, the angles of the switches may be too steep, and the sidings
too short. With a small model train layout everything is compressed to
the max. But when you think about it, although a small model train layout
may not be your first choice, it is better than no train set at all!
Keep in mind that it's likely the railroading bug will bite you. It is contagious! So, you'll need to have you room to expand your model train set.
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»HO Wagon Weight 18/06/12 23:16 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help Stanley wants advice from others in the hobby: "Dear Readers. This question has probably been asked many times [and answered] but I am in the dark about what is an average weight per wagon [European] to hold to the track properly especia...
»HO Track Spacing 18/06/12 23:12 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help Richard wants advice from others in the hobby and asks: "What is the spacing of tracks where two run side by side? What is the spacing on curves? Previous answers have referred to NMRA standards but that means nothing to me. If I want to...
»0 Scale Baggage Car 18/06/12 23:10 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help Neil has a question for readers: "I am looking for an accurate representation of the B60b baggage car in the Lindbergh Special to substitute for the model in Lionel's se. It isn't even a Pennsylvania Railroad type and is as long as their...
»Layout Configurations 11/06/12 23:11 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help 748 model railroaders voted in our last poll that asked: Which layout configuration(s) do you have on your layout? The results were as follows: Oval Track 303 (40%) Figure 8 Track 65 (8%) Dogbone Track 121 (16%) Twice-Around Track 307 (4...
»Some More Structure Tips 11/06/12 23:06 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help John has kindly contributed this tip. In a recent Tip we learned from Robert Anderson about saving space by having spur tracks and/or a hill leading to a large industry that is out of view and not really on the layout. Another way o...
»HO Scenery Plans and Structures 11/06/12 23:03 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help Andrew will like some advice from other railroaders and asks: "Hi guys, I have an 8/4 layout structured on a rural plan. I already have a station, lumber yard, campsite, beach, lake etc. My question is what should I get next for building...
»OO Gauge Tracks 11/06/12 23:01 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help Malcolm has a question for experienced model railroaders: "I am a senior beginner to trainsets. I am building 3 tracks on a board 6 x 6 and hopefully bigger in future. But am having problems making the train go from track to track - it c...
»Changing Couplers 06/06/12 23:57 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help Wayne has a question that has been answered previously (search older postings) and which is answered fully in the members area of the online model train club . Readers might like to give a quick answer. "I have several older N scale cars...
»O Lighted Car Wiring 06/06/12 23:54 from Model Trains and Model Railroading Help Steven asks readers for advice: "I have 2 North Pole Central passenger cars that had an unfortunate experience, they got hung up on the track and fried the wires inside. Is it any use to try to re-wire them or just pull all the wires out...