Model-Train-Help

Whether you are a beginner, or experienced railroader, all trains set starts with the basics of a train and some track. Well, there's a little more to it than that. A starter model train set would normally include: at least one locomotive, and some rolling stock (freight and/or passenger cars). Most likely it will also have enough straight tracks and curved tracks to make an oval layout. A starter set would also include a power pack (transformer) and some wiring that runs from the track and the power pack. Those are considered the basics of model train sets. A starter set is a good entry point for a beginner to this exciting model railroading hobby.

Add To The Basics

The next step is to add more fun and interest with other features and accessories such as: a turnout (or track switch), tunnels, bridges, buildings, telephone poles, shrubs, trees, fences, hills, vehicles and even people. An idea is to make one of the rails a 'rerailer section', to make it easier to put the locomotive and the trucks on the rails.

What Are Prototype Trains?

Generally, model train enthusiasts will refer to the real (full size) trains as prototypes. As the name implies, every track system is a unique, one of a kind system. This explains why the word 'prototype' is a good name for full size trains. If your aim is to create your own "real" system, then it's easiest to refer to full size trains as being the prototypes.

Why Have Scales?

It goes without saying that model railroads are not the same size as the real thing. They are scaled down replicas of their real world counterparts. For example, an S scale train set is built to a scaled down ratio of 1:64…. meaning that an S scale train is 1/64 the size of the real thing. When building an S scale train layout the buildings, trees, bridges, roads and other accessories would also be replicated to a scale of 1:64.

Know Your Scales

As a handy reference here is a list of the main scales from largest to the smallest:

O 1:48
S 1:64
OO 1:76
HO 1:87
N 1:160
Z 1:220

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What Scale To Choose

When getting started, don't get put off by all the different scales on offer. It is really very simple. When deciding what to purchase, just keep in mind that O, S, HO and N are the most common scales in use. Of those, HO is the most widely used scale (OO gauge in the UK).

The best way to get started is purchase a 'starter set'. These starter sets are designed to give the beginner everything he or she needs to get up and running. They contain all the basics: a locomotive, cars, track and accessories. As far as cost; starter sets are usually the best value for money, because the manufacturers use them as bait to lure new people and get them hooked on trains.

Quick Tip:

Think carefully about which scale would best suit your needs and then stick with that scale for your first project. It's that easy!

Why Choose HO Scale?

Internationally, HO (pronounced “H-Oh”) scale is the most popular model railroading scale and that's why there is generally a wider selection of accessories available including locomotives and rolling stock. The manufacturers really produce and cater for the large HO market because m ost modelers prefer a middle-of-the-road size. But, although HO is convenient for most people, it is difficult to run 50-car trains on even medium-sized HO layouts.

HO scale is 1:87 size with 16.5mm track gauge and a minimum radius of 15 inches. HO scale is an excellent size to appreciate the detail and running performance without being too cramped. Also, many HO enthusiasts say that HO scale is ideal for running their trains using a digital setup. If you’re looking for trains that require lots of switching operations then HO enthusiasts will generally agree that HO scale is an excellent choice.

Q: What is the smallest practical layout size in HO scale?

Although very confined, the size can be as small as 4 x 1 feet for a switching layout. A layout of this size can include a small staging track (1 track), and perhaps some sidings and maybe even a passenger depot.

Q: How much space is required for an continuous loop in HO scale?

A layout size of at least 3 feet 6 inches x 4 feet would allow space for a continuous loop railroad in HO. In this space you could include at least 1 turnout and standard minimum curves of 18 inch radius. But this size layout does not provide much scope for operation.

A layout space of at least 6x4 feet would a better option. This would allow room to have a reasonably interesting model railroad that is based on a continuous loop.

If space is at a premium, consider a different scale (such as N scale) or a shunting layout might be possible option. The advantage of a shunting layout is that it can be accommodated in a narrow space running along a wall.

Why Choose N Scale?

N scale is growing in popularity and has the advantage of taking up less space than the HO scale. N scale models are in fact 54.5 percent the size of similar HO models. As a result you can build an N scale layout in an area about 30% of that area needed to build a similar layout in HO scale.

If space is an issue then N scale could be the answer. N Scale allows for more complex and realistic layouts in limited space. Curves can be made much more gradual. The smaller size of N scale greatly reduces the need to utilize unrealistically sharp curves to reverse the direction of the train on a layout.

With N scale a three-foot wide layout could accommodate up to a 213 scale foot radius. The smaller N scale is also more accommodating to larger quantities of cars in a train. So, if you like the idea of long trains going through towering landscape, then N scale models might be what you are looking for.

Due to its smaller size, N scale is more intricate. For this reason it can be less suitable for youngsters and the more seasoned railroaders who may find it difficult manipulating the small rolling stock. There aren't as many options in terms of accessories compared to those available in HO Scale but with growing popularity this is changing.

What About Other Scales?

Most model train enthusiasts will focus on one of the scales mentioned earlier. However, without wanting to confuse things, there are two other scales namely OO and TT scales.

TT scale (1:120) is an abbreviation for “table-Top” and TT dimensions are about 73% of HO (1:87). They date back to 1945 and the scale is 1:120 which is scaled using an engineers ruler at 1/10 th inch to the scale foot.

OO scale is 1:76 (4mm = 1 foot) compared to HO at 1:87 (3.5mm = 1 foot).

OO and TT scales each have a smaller following of enthusiasts. OO and TT scales are not widely used and are therefore are not as easily obtainable to the average purchaser.

OO Gauge and O Gauge Confusion Sorted

Model train set gauges and scales can be confusing particularly when the names sound almost the same. OO gauge and O gauge fall into this category and can trip up beginner and even experience model raliroaders at times. So, here is the difference explained once and for all.

OO Gauge

OO Gauge has for many years, been the most popular scale with British Railway Modelers. OO gauge has a ratio of 1:76 equaling a scale of 4mm to the foot. It is considered to be the standard for many model train enthusiasts in the UK and is a popular scale with beginners buying Hornby or Bachmann Train Sets.

Here is a summary of the OO Gauge Scale:
4mm : 1ft
1/76th Scale
Track Gauge: 16.5mm

Because OO gauge is so popular in the UK there is a wide range of OO gauge accessories available in the UK. There is also a good secondhand market for OO gauge in the UK which can considerably reduce the costs of the hobby.

O Gauge

Looking now at O gauge it has a ratio of 1:48, or 7mm to the foot. Many modelers are attracted to O gauge because of the impressive detail on the rolling stock although the costs can prove prohibitive for many.

What's The Radius?

In model railroading you'll hear the term 'minimum radius'. It simply refers to the tightest curve that most model equipment in that scale can handle. If you are trying to fit a train set into a small space then HO, N and Z scales can cope with the tightest curves and will therefore take up less space.

Click The Link Below To View The

Clearances For Model Railroad Tracks
Step-By-Step Photo Tutorial

http://www.model-railroad-resources.com/clearances-members-only1.html

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Why Choose A Bigger Scale?

It is best to choose a scale that best suits your needs and gives you the effect you are looking for in your train layout. O scale and S scales are large when compared to the more popular HO scale. O scale is 1:48 size with 1¼" track gauge and a minimum radius of 2 foot (24 inches). S scale is 1:64 size with 7/8" track gauge and a minimum radius of 22½ inches. As you can see S scale is smaller in size than the larger O scale.

What About G Scale?

G Scale is big and is sometimes referred to as "Garden Scale." Much of the equipment made in G Scale is suitable for use outside in a Garden Railroad. It is also ideal for running around the Christmas Tree.

G Scale is very easy for children to operate because the trains are hard to derail. It is big, so G Scale requires even more space than does O Scale. Quality engines, rolling stock, track, and accessories can get very expensive. There are less accessories available for G Scale. G Scale has not been standardized to the extent of the other scales mentioned.

Interesting Fact:

S scale trains were first made in England during the 1930's. At that time model railroaders were looking for a smaller scale that would take up less space but retain the advantages of detailing and the heftiness of modeling that the O scale afforded. At the time, many felt that the HO scale was too small and that a more desirable gauge would be somewhere in between the larger O scale and the smaller HO scale. That's how the S scale came to be.

Advantages of O Scale and S Scale

O or S scales are suitable for people with plenty of space available, for children and perhaps for anyone who might find it difficult to handle the smaller more intricate scales. However, these scales are not as readily available so the choice of accessories is generally more limited.

When buying a train set for a child, consider the bigger scales like O or S scale, because they are easier for small hands (although more expensive). Most experts would agree that the bigger scales seem to stay on the tracks better. Continually placing trains back on the track can be frustrating for children, as can coupling the trains together all the time, when they come apart. So, it is important that the scale size fits the abilities of the user be they young or not so young.

Also, remember that the very popular HO scale (1:87 proportion, 1/87th of actual size) is reasonably easy to handle. It's not too fiddly!

Helping You Decide

Naturally, your choice of scale will depend on what you want your railroad to do. It is important to remember that bigger is not necessarily better. You can pack more into the scene with a smaller scale. If you live in an apartment or small house where space is limited, then think about a smaller scale such as Z, N and HO. If you are interested in micro trains, consider Z, which is 1:220

Planning Micro Model Train Layouts

A micro model train layout is best defined as a self contained, working model railroad with a clear purpose and operating capability. They are ideal for small apartments and confined spaces, because most micro model train layouts will fit in an area of less than three or four foot square. Depending on the design, micro model train layouts can be reasonably quick to construct and can feature a lot of operating functions.

The main thing to remember - a very small micro model train layout requires a different planning approach. Scales are different and the scenery is very compact when compared to a larger scale model railroad layout.

Constructing a micro layout is a bit like a theatrical stage set design.

You choose a scene and then work out the logistics of compressing the illusion of it into a confined space.

You'll need to be flexible in your thinking, because most micro layouts use forced perspective and lots of special tricks and even flexible backdrops (just like on stage!).

Careful thought needs to be given to selecting rolling stock and structures which could include low-relief and flat models of structures.

8 Steps To Selecting The Right Scale For You.

1. Measure the area or table where the train set is going. Consider that it may not be possible to reach more than three feet across a layout, limiting an "against the wall" layout to about three feet wide.

2. Think carefully about who will be using the train set and what you want to achieve from the layout.

3. Head to the hobby shop or surf the net for what you want. If you are visiting a store it might be a good idea to take a tape measure.

4. Visiting a hobby shop is a good idea because you can measure out a few pieces of track in each scale.

5. Do the math if you don't have a tape measure. Sizes are as follows: O track is 1 1/4 inches wide. S track is 7/8 inch wide. HO track is 0.65 inch wide.

6. Decide how much detail you'd like to have on your trains if room is not an issue. Remember; detail is easier to see and reproduce on larger trains.

7. Consider how extensive you intend your layout to be now.... and in the future. HO scale is the most common and has the widest variety of accessories available.

8. See whether the trains and accessories you like are available in every scale or only some scales, and choose accordingly.

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Chart Of Popular Scales

Scale/ gaugedesignation	Proportion to prototype	Track gauge	Minimum radius	Length of 50'boxcar approx.
Z	1:220	.256" 6.5MM	5¾"	2¾"
N	1:160	.354" 9.0mm	7½"	3¾"
HO	1:87	.650" 16.5mm	15"	7"
S	1:64	.875" 22.5mm	22½"	9¼"
O	1:48	1.25" 32mm	24"	12½"
Gn3	1:22.5	1.75" 45mm	24"	19"

More Detailed Scale Chart

Some model railroad names, terms and scales do vary a little between the USA, UK and Europe. This can be confusing, so here is a simple chart to explain some to the major differences. To convert from metric to imperial measurements use the simple conversion calculator at:

http://www.onlineconversion.com/length_common.htm

Name	Scale	Track gauge
Z	1:220	6.5mm
OOO	1:152	9.5mm
N (UK)	1:148	9mm
N	1:160	9mm
TM	1:100	14.2mm
TT3	1:100	12mm
TT	1.120	12mm
HO	1.87	16.5mm
OO (US)	1.76	19mm
P4	1.76	18.83mm
EM	1.76	18mm/18.2mm
OO (UK)	1.76	16.5mm
S	1.64	22.2mm
O (US)	1.48	32mm
O (EUROPE)	1.45	32mm
O (UK)	1:43.5	32mm
1 GAUGE (UK)	1:32 or 1:30	45mm
G (US)	1:24 (varies from 1:19 to 1:32)	45mm

Narrow Gauge Scales:

G (45 mm. track gauge)
SM32 (32 mm. track gauge)
On (16.5 mm. track gauge)
HOm (12 mm. track gauge)
HOn3 (10.5 mm. track gauge)
On3 (16.5 mm. track gauge)
Nn3 or Nm (6.5 mm. track gauge)

What's The Difference Between Scale And Gauge?

The terms scale and gauge are two of the most confused terms in the model railroad hobby. The SCALE proportion is expressed as a fraction of a real life-sized railroad. As an example, HO scale is 1/87 the size of real life-sized railroads. For model trains, track GAUGE is the width between the inside running edge of the rails. For toy trains, gauge is the measurement from the center of the two outside rails.

Do Tracks Have The Same Gauge?

No they don't, but there are two main types: standard gauge and narrow gauge. In the US, Canada and most European countries, trains run on “standard gauge.”

What is Narrow Gauge?

Narrow gauge equipment maintains the scale, but runs on a smaller gauge of track. It is seldom used on main lines. Narrow Gauge track was generally laid in areas where rail traffic was light, curves may have needed to be tight, and cost was a major issue. Most popular in mining spurs, logging spurs, and scenic tourist rails where low speeds were usual.

Quick Tip:

Narrow gauge models use the lower case letter "n" to follow the scale and then the track gauge in scale feet. Example: HOn3 means HO scale (1:87 proportion narrow gauge 3 feet between the tracks.). HOn2 would be HO scale narrow gauge 2 feet between the tracks.

What is Standard Gauge?

Standard Gauge railroads have a width of four feet eight and a half inches between rails whereas Narrow Gauge railroads have a width of three feet between rails.

What About S Gauge or On30?

Increasing in popularity, S gauge narrow track makes it possible to have a very attractive, yet complex layout in about the same space as a more modest HO layout. On30 is another alternative to consider. On30 allows trains to run on track the size of HO while still retaining larger buildings and people.

Interesting Fact:

There are few narrow gauge railroads still in operation. Some have been converted to the standard railroad system. Others have been dismantled and turned into scrap. Even though narrow gaugerailroads were inexpensive to build, off loading and on loading became too much of an expense. Each time a narrow gauge railroad met a standard railroad, shipments would have to be unloaded and reloaded.

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