What Should You Start With?

We've already agreed that you'll need a locomotive, running stock, track and a power pack (transformer) to get started. You'll need to set aside an area in a spare room, basement or attic and provide a surface on which to place all this gear. And then there are all those exciting accessories to consider!

Interesting Fact:

Before Lionel entered the scene, Ives Corp. dominated the toy train manufacturing in America. Founded in 1868, this toy firm developed a mechanical clockwork locomotive giving its trains the edge of self-propelled motion. Around 1900, Ives faced competition from European toy makers. Ives then produced colorful electric locomotives with the first automatic reversing units. Heightened competition from Lionel and American Flyer led to Ives declaring bankruptcy in 1928.

STOP! Before you go crazy with the credit card, think carefully about how much time and money you want to spend on this hobby. You may want to start off slowly before getting too committed in what can become an absorbing hobby… even an obsession. Maybe you had a train set when you were a kid and you can remember those times with great fondness. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you want to mortgage the house right at the start.

Why You Shouldn't Skimp On The Essentials

If the objective is to maximize your pleasure from this enthralling hobby, then don’t skimp on the essentials, like a decent locomotive and a good power pack. You don’t have to spend megabucks but you do need to get something that will meet your needs and be functional. You can always add to your set or upgrade as you become more involved in the hobby. So, it’s not a problem if you can’t afford the state of the art stuff from day one.

Should You Make A List?

Absolutely! Surf the net and read up on the different options available. Then write down your wish list. Set yourself a budget and work out what each item will cost. Then prioritize your list and decide on some alternative choices that might be worth considering depending on your budget constraints. Talk to the staff at your local hobby shop as they may have some alternative suggestions. They are the ones who should be able to advise what's new, what’s good…and even what to avoid.

Should You Set Objectives?

It is always a good idea to set some objectives and goals. Begin with the end in mind. Apart from providing pleasure, what else do you want from your layout? When you think about it, you'll probably decide that is has to be functional and as realistic as possible. Write down what you want to achieve and then you can get started on the exciting part where you can combine your vision and attention to detail with your creativity, technical, and problem solving skills.

Ask yourself: How will your layout operate? Do you want several trains to be on the move at the same time? What type of rolling stock do you want to run? Do you enjoy shunting wagons around a goods yard? Maybe you just want to switch on and watch your train go round and round a circle of track. Do you want to run to a timetable?

Get the idea? You won't know the answer to every question you come up with, but it will help clarify your thinking as to what you really want to achieve.

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It is a fact that many modelers begin their interest in model railroads without having a specific interest in any one particular railway line or company. The trains that they start out running have either been given to them as a gift or chosen because they look nice or are priced within the budget.

Mistakes can be costly so take your time and work through the process carefully, logically and thoroughly. After all, buying a train set or building a layout is not a race. It is better to think things through carefully and then do things the best way to achieve your goals.

Here is a valuable list of steps that will help you on this exciting journey. You don't necessarily need to work through them in this order, but you will want to cover each step:

Step 1: Make Small Mistakes First

We all make mistakes especially when we are learning. So, with this in mind it's usually best to start small. Then hopefully, mistakes can be small too. You will probably want to purchase only a small amount of track to start off and maybe some plugs, switches, an engine or two, and a few cars. A small track layout of 4x8 or less might be a good place to start. There is no point in being intimidated (and maybe discouraged) by a large or complex set when you are learning the basics. With a smaller set it will be easier to fix mistakes or make changes.

A 4x8 layout is large enough to fit the 18-inch radius curves that come with many train sets. With a 4x8 layout there is also room for an oval with 18-inch radius ends and a few sidings.

By not going overboard at the beginning, you give yourself a chance to see what you need to make it even better.

Kits have everything you need to get started in one complete package… and they're usually very reasonably priced. Starter kits are a wonderful entry level for beginners. They include: enough tracks for a basic layout, a locomotive, some rolling stock and a power pack. Those are the basics to get up and running.

Talk with the staff at your local hobby shop because they can advise you on the best selection to meet your needs. Buying a starter kit doesn’t necessarily mean you have to compromise on quality. There are a number of really good kits out there to choose from.

Step 3: Know Your Budget

Model train sets can run from a few dollars to several thousands of dollars, so it is important to decide how much you want to spend. Set a realistic budget and stick to it.

Thanks to the internet and sites like "e-bay" you can pick up some real bargains in the secondhand market. Make sure you know exactly what you are buying.

When you're in the hobby shop it can be very easy to blow your budget so it's best to decide your limits before you shop. This will ensure that you don’t blow your budget when you spot that perfect (but very pricey) train set or accessory. Again it is matter of balancing ambition with realistic objectives. The same considerations apply to how much time you can allocate to building your layout. Many a layout has gone unfinished due to lack of time and money.

It is all about getting value for money without going overboard. When starting off you won't need the most expensive... but nor should you buy a poor quality cheap set from a discount store. You want pleasure from running your trains… not frustration.

Talk with model railroading veterans about this hobby and many will tell you they still have their very first train set. They'll also tell you how much fun they've had with it. So choose carefully.

Step 4: Research What's Available

Before purchasing a train set do your own research to familiarize yourself as to what's available. Surf the net (there are lots of useful sites listed in this ebook) and read hobby magazines or train books. Search for information on the models that most interest you.

Surfing the internet you'll see that a lot of sites specialize in certain aspects of model railroading or different scales such as HO, N or Z. Many of these sites offer in-depth information and excellent tips and ideas that will help increase your knowledge and stimulate your creative juices.

Step 5: Where Is Your Set Going To Live?

Before you purchase your set think carefully about where you’re going to display and built it. Select a space where it won't get damaged… and where you have room to enjoy the set… and work on… and operate the trains with ease. And, if possible, room enough to expand onto your set. Yes, that's something to consider – is it going to be permanent, or is the layout going to put away after each use?

Locate your 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 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. 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. It is also better to be raised to a comfortable height above the floor.

It's usually best not to display your set on the floor. Carpet and rails don’t mix because being low to the floor your set will attract pet hair, dirt, dust and debris that can stick to the tracks and get into the engine. The floor is not a good location, because pets, or children might damage the set, it may even cause someone to trip and/or injure himself or herself.

Keep in mind that it's likely the railroading bug will bite you. It is contagious! So, you'll need to have you room for expansion.

Choose the scale you want to work with carefully. Make sure that you have enough room to accommodate a layout in that scale size. Also, decide how big you want your layout to be now and in the future. If you think you might want to expand your layout in the future, then you may want to start off with a scale that takes up less space.

Many people get started with HO scale, but what you choose is over to you. If space is an issue, then N scale might be a better option than HO scale. N scale takes up less room than HO. As a comparison, you can fit as much detail into an N scale layout using a door as your platform, as you can on a 4 by 8 sheet of plywood with HO.

Step 7: Select A Theme

Model railroading offers so many different options, that it sometimes pays to stick with a theme. Perhaps select an historical era that you are interested in and then select your trains, building and scenery from that era. For example: a layout depicting California logging railroads in the 1920s might interest you. Researching a theme can be particularly enjoyable by adding to the fun and also making the layout seem more realistic.

Okay, assuming you have a favorite period in railway history, then you might want to base your layout around that. The alternative is to cover a wider time frame. Think carefully about what time scale you want to model.

Search the internet for model train retailers and find out as much information as you can online. Re-visit the hobby shops in person (spend an hour or so in each) and ask more questions. Shop around and then shop around some more.

The more you know about model trains, the less chance that you'll be taken for a ride (excuse the pun!). Some shop assistants and internet retailers just want to sell… and others may misunderstand your needs and sell you the wrong thing. However, in saying that, in general hobby shop staff have a wealth knowledge and are happy to share their ideas. Also the more research you do, the better you'll get to know your train scales, styles and which manufacturers you prefer.

Toy stores sometimes carry train sets, but often they specialize in the lower end or battery operated market. Hobby stores are generally more specialized and cater more for the experienced enthusiasts. They sell more challenging electrical model trains sets and offer choices from more manufacturers than do most toy stores. Specialist hobby stores usually carry a full range of accessories, as well as railroading books, magazines, DVDs and videos to help you get started. The other advantage is that hobby shops typically service what they sell. Although there are exceptions, hobby stores generally have shop staff who are knowledgeable about model trains.

Step 9: Join A Club And Network

Another advantage of buying from a specialist hobby store is the advantage of networking. They probably have contacts at the local model railway club and may be able to put you in touch with the members. Most model railroad enthusiasts are more than helpful and gladly give you the benefit of their experience and introduce you to others with a similar interest in the hobby. This way, you can learn insider secrets and tricks.

Don't think that everyone in a club is experienced. Most clubs enjoy a mix of long-time experienced railroaders and new members. It is a good place to learn, because most clubs encourage the exchange of ideas between members. They swap photos, show films, discuss techniques, network with other railroad clubs and even have guest speakers from time to time. Joining a model railroad club can be truly rewarding experience in terms of what you can learn, the people you meet and the fun you have.

Also, if possible, take a look at some of the magazines that are available on model railroading. They make for good reading! (see list at end of book)

Model Train Shows have become very popular in the last 10 years. Train shows start with a promoter who rents a large space in a hall, convention center, or perhaps a local fairground. The promoter usually invites the local train clubs to put on displays.

Space is rented to "out of town" dealers so that they can show off and sell their ranges of model train sets and model train accessories... in fact, anything that might be of interest to model railroaders.

The selection of items on offer at model train shows is usually far more extensive than a model railroader could expect to see at a local hobby shop. Also, these model train shows can provide a good opportunity to pick up a bargain as they usually feature a range discontinued items at discounted prices. But, that's where you may need to be particularly careful.

Used or secondhand model trains and accessories are a popular attraction at Model Train Shows. This is where buyers need to be careful and know exactly what they they are looking for and what they are buying. Used items don't usually come with any type of money-back guarantee. A dealer selling items at a model train show could be 500 miles away in a few days. This could provide little (if any) opportunity to return or exchange items, or to get refunds. This is where a local Hobby Shop can offer an advantage because the shop can't hide from you... and, if the hobby shop management is efficient, they will get to know the wants and needs of each individual customer.

So, Model Train Shows can be confusing and they can, potentially, be a minefield of danger for an inexperienced beginner to this hobby.

However, in saying that, there are many excellent "out of town" dealers at model train shows who will do their best to help and who will stand behind their sales. The key is to ask each dealer about guarantees, replacements, servicing... and to get accurate contact details. Many reputable dealers will gladly supply a phone number to call if you have a problem with something you bought and will work out an exchange via mail.

Model Train Shows are a wonderful experience and a great venue if you want to expand your knowledge of the hobby and talk model trains with like-minded people. The displays of model trains and running layouts put on by the various clubs that participate are usually well worth the entry fee, even if you buy nothing at the Model Train Show.

Step 11: Start With The Right Tools

For collecting trains, no tools are really needed, although a few screwdrivers and needle nose pliers are useful for securing parts. Anyone planning to build a layout should obtain clamps, drill, electric saber saw, hacksaw, hammer, hot glue gun, measuring tape, motor tool, pin vise, safety goggles, soldering iron, utility knife, and wire strippers.

Step 12: Plan To Expand

As already mentioned, you don’t need to start off big. You can expand your train set as needed. Take your time and add your own personal touches along the way. Building a small layout to start with, will give you a chance to assess your strengths and weaknesses. You'll learn what you can do with ease and what is more of a challenge.

Some people get put off by attempting difficult projects too early and become overwhelmed by a vast array of details, choices and problems. It is much better to start with something you know you CAN do to get immediate results and instant gratification. You can develop your skills and your layout from there by adding new features, extra rolling stock, new accessories, maybe some additional track and another locomotive.

Step 13: Enjoy Yourself

Don't lose sight of the objective of the whole exercise i.e. to enjoy yourself and have fun! Model railroading can be more than just a hobby – it can become an addiction and you don't want to get so involved in the process of problem solving that you forget to have a good time.

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If you need to store your electric trains long or short term then here's what to do. Wrap unboxed items in newsprint (blank), butcher paper, or a thick layer of white paper towels. Avoid printed newspaper or any colored paper as the inks and dyes can run if moisture forms. This can ruin the paint and decals of your models.

Place wrapped items and/or outer carton in a plastic storage box. This will prevent garage floods and attic leaks from soaking a cardboard box and rusting any metal parts. This is especially important for owners of tinplate trains as water/moisture damage can happen.

Plan your layout to be easily accessible, so that you can quickly and easily fix problems. What can go wrong? Regardless of how good your trackwork is - derailments still happen. Sometimes it's caused by a super-light flatcar being shoved behind a heavy boxcar, or a hopper with out-of-gauge wheelsets somewhere waiting to pick a switchpoint or be forced off the track. S-curves are a hazard for passenger cars. As well as derailments, locomotives stall on spots of dirty track, or on turnouts that have insulated frogs.

None of these things are much of a problem as long as you can reach the spot of the accident. The trouble starts when you locate tracks and turnouts outside your reach. On paper the placing of a critical turnout 36” or more from the layout edge doesn’t seem like a problem, but once the yard starts to operate, it can become your biggest headache.

By this time you will have an idea of what you want to create? The question now is; do you just launch in and make a start on building it, or do you take your time, or should you think some more about it, or perhaps you're just wondering where to make a start? Well yes, it is important to get started, but it is really important that you go about things in a logical manner to avoid many of the mistakes that "newbies" to this hobby are known to make.

There are definitely things that you should and shouldn’t do, so it's better to do it right the first time. With this in mind, here’s our checklist of 5 important things to consider when building your set:

Important Point #1. Don't Rush Things

Work carefully through the process of building your train set. Do things logically and thoroughly. It takes time to build a great set – it is NOT a race!

If you rush doing things then you’ll get stressed especially when things don't go as planned. Mistakes can be costly and frustrating. It is better to think things through carefully step-by-step in a logical order.

Start by drawing some sketches and writing some notes on what you want to achieve. That's a good idea because you'll then have something to refer to and keep you on track (oops another pun!). Take your time and read any instructions carefully before you get started.

This might sound a bit strange, but don’t try and do too much at first. It is a common mistake. For example, there is no point in purchasing an expensive train set, setting it all up…only to have the base that supports it collapse under the weight of the set. That would be disastrous!

The previous two tips are a good example of the basic, but important, steps that need to be carefully thought though from the start. It is best to start small and then work your way up as and when your skills improve. Model railroading is all about doing what you are capable of doing and what you enjoy doing…WITHOUT getting stressed out from attempting too much, or doing things that are overly complicated when starting out.

Important Point #3. Complete Each Step

Finish the entire sequence of construction, including any detailing and scenery before proceeding to the next step. In other words, "always finish what you start." Some people try to do too many things at once, but they fail to complete jobs and sometimes do them poorly.

It is the secret to creating a reliable and outstanding layout… and besides, it will provide you with an enormous sense of accomplishment. It is tempting to jump ahead and skip out on the different stages of construction. Don't do it, because it's all part of the jigsaw and the all-important learning process. The skills you acquire at this level will help you master more complex projects as you progress with this enthralling hobby.

Most layouts are a combination of ideas and compromises built over a period of time. Above all, don't be afraid of making mistakes, because they can always be rectified. Even the most experienced railroaders make mistakes at times. And, in reality, it's likely that only you will notice that the mistakes even exist.

It's better to fix your mistakes as you go along, because it's no fun to have to start over from the beginning. Care in design and testing is essential at each stage of the process because, at times it can be extremely difficult to make alterations or correct mistakes. But, in saying that, you shouldn’t be afraid to making mistakes, because that's how we learn.

For instance, if your train makes it around a curve only 80% of the time, then why not rectify the problem? That's not to say you don't enjoy watching a locomotive and cars derail (some people do!). To fix the problem it may mean taking the track apart and realigning the curve so that it isn't so sharp.

Why settle for annoying little omissions and mistakes when often they can easily be fixed? If your hillsides are the wrong color why not repaint or touch them up? If the telegraph poles look lopsided, then straighten them. If a light does work fix it. After all, you’re aiming for realism here…and besides, repairs and maintenance are part of what makes railroading such an absorbing and fun hobby.

There’s nothing wrong with making and fixing mistakes. In fact, when you’re just starting off, you will make mistakes. This is a given but you have to learn from your mistakes and then move on, as failure is only feedback. Creating the perfect layout takes time and there’s no pleasure in rushing the process. You’ll be glad you took that time to get the detail just right especially when you stand back and look at the excellent results.

Important Point #5. Keep An Open Mind To New Ideas

Think outside the square, expand your horizons, keep an open mind and be prepared to try new things. This is important, because model railroading is a creative hobby and there are always new ideas and techniques to explore especially when it comes to constructing layouts.

Talk with other model railroad enthusiasts, read magazines, books and surf the net for ideas and contacts. Subscribe to model railroading newsletters and e-zines on the internet to keep up-to-date with the latest techniques. Use the net to join model railroad newsgroups and forums. They can be a wealth of information and ideas and a great way to have your technical questions answered. You can also help others and share any clever ideas you have.

The following is an excellent article I came across written by successful small business entrepreneur Noel Peebles. It's not specifically on the subject of model trains, but it does relate very well to what we've just been talking about. It's short and to the point, so enjoy it!

If you haven't got an open mind that's prepared to accept
a different way of doing things, then stop reading right
now. Buy a novel instead.

The game of life is real and is played between the ears.
The way you think determines the decisions you make.
The decisions you make determine what you do.
And what you do determines how successful you will become.
Your present life is the result of the decisions
you have made over the years and the same
will be true of your future.

You have a great power under your control - the power
to take possession of your mind and to direct it to whatever
ends you desire. What you choose to focus your mind on is
critical because you will become what you think about most
of the time. I remember making that comment to a friend of
mine and he raised his eyebrows and asked
"Does that mean I'm going to become a woman?"
Maybe that's taking things too far but…

Life is a series of thoughts and you can become what you
think about most of the time. You have the power of choice
and you can create the life you want by choosing what to do
and what to think about.

What do you really want? That question is at the foundation
of all success. Wanting it badly enough... that you will
work through problem after problem, and failure after
failure, to get what you really want.

Is it your current circumstances or is it what
you are choosing to believe about those circumstances
and your power (or lack of) to change them?

Life is a self-fulfilling prophecy. You create the life
you live through your choices and your thoughts.
You don't always get exactly what you want, but in
the long run you will get what you expect.