Model Railway Trains - Everything You Need To Know To Get Started In The World's Greatest Hobby

By Clint Spille

There are so many different model railway trains that it can mystify you. There are model railways that are as large as half or quarter size of the real train represented. There are models that go all the way down to 1/220th the scale of the actual train represented.

You will find model trains in many different places such as an amusement park, carnivals, and larger scales are often used for viewing nature preserves due to the fact that they will often have to lowest impact on the natural beauty. While this sized scale seems a little excessive, and expensive, this really is not the case.

The benefit of greater sized model train railways is that they can be used for more than just transporting people around an amusement track. For example, if you own a huge piece of real estate a 1/8th sized functional model railway train could be used to transport items such as crops, feed, chopped wood and anything else that needs to be taken a long distance across your land.

Model railway trains can be fully functional steam models with real wood or coal fired combustion chambers and other features that contribute to their overall functionality. While you may think these trains are expensive to invest in, that's not really the case at all.

The first thing that makes these cheaper is that they are sent you as a fully prefabricated kit. All you need to do is follow the instructional video, and finish it yourself. You can order kits for the engines, whether steam, or electric.

There are even model train car plans that can be purchased from these companies, which you can utilize to assemble your own model trains, complete with accessories. In order to get the best quality railway rails, you have to get those premade more than anything.

Scale, load bearing, and other like concerns will be taken care of with these ready to go rail sections. Make sure you are setting them somewhere that is structurally secure, and just follow the steps. It is very inexpensive to get a kit today, and can help you do your business efficiently.

Of course many people do not have the space to consider a train this size. That is why there are many scales that can fit with any kind of indoor or outdoor setting.

There are scales so small that a whole layout could fit easily on one small table or desk. The most popular scale is HO, which is 1:87. This scale is easiest to find, buy accessories for, and find replacement parts. It is small enough to deal with, yet large enough to show in layouts very well.

There are especially holiday specific layouts you may take advantage of. They'll have festive trains for your model train railroads. Music will emit from them, and they'll eject fake smoke as they travel. There will be the common amenities of a standard layout, but with a few holiday-specific accoutrements, like carolers, lighten lamp posts, or even fake snow on the included houses, as well as much more.

Something parents should be mindful of when contemplating a model railroad railroad as a gift is that they have components that will involve an electrical outlet. Some of the less complicated models might be battery powered or even moved by hand via a wooden track.

If the model railroad railways are also for another adult, make sure they have adequate space to put it somewhere where it will not take up the whole house, as well as know whether or not they are interested in the hobby of model railroad trains. - 31503

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Your Ultimate Handbook to Toy Model Trains

By Clint Spille

Have you been feeling a bit bored lately? Perhaps you would be interested in finding a new hobby that you can enjoy in your spare time? If so, then I would highly recommend that you look into building toy model trains. This is true for a variety of reasons.

For starters, building toy model trains is a hobby that can truly be enjoyed by people of all ages. Therefore, building toy model trains is a fantastic way to spend some fun quality time with one of your loved ones.

From your spouse or partner, your kids, and even your friends can enjoy sharing the hobby of making toy model railroads. Constructing toy model railways with the people you love will create beautiful, lifelong memories and will also be incredibly fun for everyone involved.

However, if you're searching for a bit of an escape from your fast paced life of work and family time, toy model railroads can allow you do that as well, supplying you something that's just yours. It is great to get involved in the world of your toy model railways as you while away the hours putting it together.

This is because it would be an excellent way to slow down the usual fast pace of your life and give yourself some much needed rest and relaxation time by providing you with a creative outlet to help "escape" from it all.

If you are typically not a very imaginative, creative person, building toy model trains is a great way to help bring out that side of yourself that most likely has been hidden inside of you for far too long.

Putting toy model trains together is in and of itself a lot of fun. However, what is truly rewarding is the whole overall experience of model train building. It is truly just fantastic to start out with what basically amounts to an assortment of jumbled pieces, and then transform that into something that is both functional and beautiful.

You and your loved ones are sure to enjoy your toy model trains set for many years to come! So, what are you waiting for? Why not go ahead and get started on building a toy model train set today?

I assure you that you will be very glad that you gave building toy model trains a try, and that it will be an experience that both you and your loved one won't soon forget. - 31503

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Model Train Scenery Alternatives, Prices, and Description

By Clint Spille

The complexities of model railroad engines and cars, are in all probability the main justification why individuals enjoy model railroads. The layout of your set would be number three, with model railway scenery being the number two reason that people take pleasure in owning model railways.

There's more you can do to have your layout stand out than just slapping a few fake trees on it. When it comes to model train scenery, it's so effortless to make your own; from making scale plants from life size plastic plants to using toy cars in the scene, there's nothing you can't do to make your layout look great.

You may even think about recycling things out of the garbage like tin cans and cardboard boxes, cleaning them out and painting them to suit your needs. While these are all good ideas, many home made model train scenery creations aren't going to be the same size and scale as the model train, and will look out of place.

Unless you are quite skilled at painting and modeling, you will never get the same quality of detail as you will from products that are specifically made for the train hobbyist. The product and accessory options are far better than anything you can come up with in many cases.

You'll find that for the most part, you cannot conceive of anything that will compare to the product and accessory alternatives available for model train sets. To ensure sturdiness, always be sure that your bridges and trestles are prefabricated, as they will be expected to handle the weight of your trains.

If you purchase retail model train scenery accessories, they are uniquely created to be perfectly to scale, so there's no worrying about whether or not they will look the same in real life. A lot of times, you can buy electrical accessories that can just tie into the preexisting wiring for your train.

The command center is the heart for operation of the multiple machinery functioning with the electrical wiring of your model railroad. You should be deliberate in your selection of model railway scenery, ensuring that it coordinates well with the flow of your model railroad's layout.

You would want an oil refinery, some warehouses, maybe some semi tractor-trailers. If you are going with a country setting, then you would want grain silos, maybe a windmill, some farm buildings and animals.

You may want to consider various animals, some farm buildings, a grain silo or two, and almost certainly a windmill if you have chosen selected a country setting for your model train layout. To add your own flair to your model railroad scenery, look for the ready to use pieces available to railway hobbyists, that allow you to put the scenery together. In this way, you can have the professional detail that you want for your railroad set, but still have the opportunity to take part in its creation. Model train scenery can be found in a number of places, including area hobby shops and on the Internet.

You can find model train scenery from a wide range of places, both on the Internet and at many local hobby shops. It might be a wise idea to visit online shops first, even if you may have to order products online, because they can answer many of your questions as well as show you what they do have in stock.

This will give you a detailed look at the extent of the detail that is used to create some of these model train scenery parts. - 31503

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A Quick Look At Model Train Sets

By Clint Spille

The creativity of model railroad sets out there probably bests that of real railroads. Places like your local hobby store or the Internet possess an great number of them. You'll see them in every aesthetic under the sun - antique locomotives, monorails, steam engines, and more.

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 Holidy Express G. This set is decorated in bright holiday colors, and includes the engine and coal car, a passenger car and caboose.

You will be able to play Christmas songs and additional holiday sounds, as well as accent it with 75 lights. The layout offers a water tower, as well as several different track shapes to make your own track, powered by an effective transformer. While you might purchase added Holiday Express accessories to add on to this, you will not find New Bright add ons that fit.

You can power 80 feet of train track with the transformer, but it may have difficulty powering that and the optional musical clock tower if you decide to get that as well as everything else. This comprehensive list of materials runs around $235, but you can buy it for cheaper in some retail on the internet stores.

The Bachmann Digital Commander Deluxe HQ Set is another innovative piece of model railway sets out there. You'll receive two railways with this set, which you can operate at once with separate controls using the advanced DCC On Board technology integrated into the console.

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.

In addition to the command console, magnets, and power pack, you can get enough pieces to assemble an oval track 47x38" long. You will additionally receive a guidebook and DVD that dictate how it all works.

This set is around $300, but you might find it for $200 in select retail outlets on the Internet.

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.

There are tons of pictures and videos online of other layouts that enthusiasts have constructed, so you can get ideas. The only boundary is your wallet and your 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. - 31503

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Electronics - Charging Force Behind Model Trains

By Daryl Clayton Kennedy

Until the magic of electricity, model train lovers had to push their trains to receive their trills... It wasn't until the introduction of electricity that modelers began to tackle the problems of operating multiple locomotives simultaneously on one block of rail!

Thanks to lessons learned during WWII, Lionel was able to master a system that changed the frequency of communications equipment in order to shield the allies from axis ease dropping! This concept was used by Lionel to create oscillating frequencies that can be transmitted to the tracks and received through the rails.

The engineer could control his or her model train through a switch or dial of some sort. As you where able to control your speed and direction using this technique, it was never the less cumbersome which made for a daunting setup and timely dissemble.

Lionel's lack of electronic savvy held the hall of fame company back in the development of command control. GE hit a home run when they stepped up to the plate and belted out a winning 5 channel system, capable of controlling more the one train on a single block!

This new system called ASTRAC (Automatic Simultaneous Train Control) by GE used silicon rectifiers to incorporate a receiver in each cab. Signals travel from transmitter to the tracks where your receiver picks up the intel and executes its commands.

Other systems followed such as, Dynotrols carrier control and their CTC-16 which was a successful player in the early days of model train electronics. Throughout the seventies and early eighties these earlier command control devices had one major setback, they weren't compatible with other devices from other model train manufatuers.

Due to these inconsistencies, Lenz, a prominent European DCC innovator, suggested to the industry leaders that they device a system in which compatibility of decoders, transmitters and power stations be mandatory. So in honer of this decree we now enjoy uniform electronics as far a s basic DCC is concerned.

As long as your decoders and power stations follow NMRA standards you're good to go! Be sure to check your decoder before operation to assure positive results. - 31503

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Traditional Toys - Giving Pleasure For Longer

By Henry Davidson

Although the Zhu Zhu pets were only released in August of this year, they have become a runaway success already. Children nationwide have gone crazy for the cute little motorized hamsters that incorporate artificial intelligence which lets them interact with their environment, the other Zhu Zhu hamsters and the kids who are playing with them.

Obviously the hamsters are cute, small and furry - but additional to this, kids really seem to enjoy the interaction. The Zhu Zhu family - Mr. Squiggles, Pipsqueak, Chunk, Num Nums and Patches - have more than forty sounds which they produce when given the right external stimulus. For example, if they go into the bathroom area of their hamster house, they produce tooth brushing noises. If they enter their hamster bedroom then they emit snores - and so on.

Unfortunately for consumers, many retailers decided to work with relatively low stock levels this year. It's a decision which is based partly on the fact that last year's stock levels were too high - many retailers had to drop prices considerably to clear their shelves - and partly due to the current economic outlook.

It's perfectly understandable that this decision was made - but looking at sales figures thus far, it does look as if the retailers may have misjudged the mood of consumers. Popular toys like the Zhu Zhu pets and Mattel's Mindflex game are flying off the shelves. Supply is lagging demand and it's fast becoming extremely difficult to locate these toys in stores. The closer we get to Christmas, the worse this will become.

Having realised their mistake, a lot of retailers are now frantically trying to arrange for new stock. However, the vast majority of toys are made in China these days. That means that delivery usually includes a sea journey of around a month or so. Arranging for new stocks in time for Christmas may be impossible in some cases.

It's now possible, as a result of the huge gap between supply and demand, to find Zhu Zhu hamsters selling on eBay for more than $ 150. That's way above the normal ticket price - and prices could rise even more as Christmas draws near and parents become desperate. It's a lot of money to pay for a child's toy which, even if it is currently all the rage, will probably be yesterday's news a few months from now.

If value for money is a consideration, then you might like to consider some of the more traditional gifts this year. Children's classics such as a train set, Monopoly, Lego or Scrabble - to name but a few - have stood the test of time for good reason. They are always a great addition to any kid's toy box and will probably still be in use and being enjoyed long after this year's hot, must have toy has been forgotten. - 31503

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Crafting Realistic Rock Molds for Your Model Train Layout

By Daryl Clayton Kennedy

Rock molds aren't difficult to produce. You'll need a little patients, a few tools and I'll supply you with the basics. In order to save some time I'll review the most popular method while taking note of the lesser used techniques.

Firstly, before any molding is attempted, you'll need to identify the type of rock formation and general landscape required. Secondly, locate a suitable rock or small bolder to use as a template for your mold. If safe to say that there is an ample amount to choose from if you venture out your front door or even go as far to take a sample from your prototype. Either way make sure you choose a foundation that closely resembles your desired effect.

When you locate your specimen begin the process by cleaning the rocks surface in order to craft a true to form molding. Once clean pull out your liquid latex and baste a coat over your clean rock surface. Let dry, then repeat at least two more times.

Upon completion of first few layers of latex, grab some gauze from your arsenal and cover evenly over portion of rock you wish to mold! When done covering rock with gauze go after another layer or two of latex!

I know what you must be thinking... it sounds like a heck of a lot of work and to some it may be, so here is your alternative. Go to your nearest hobby shop or model train dealer and purchase a pre-fabricated mold or purchase one online!

You can save a little time and money by reducing the number of molds you purchase and simply re-using your existing mold. Create individuality by reversing your molds or alternating their position.

If choosing this technique don't forget to place your molds in completely random positions never repeating the same pattern unless dictated by photo or prototype.

Following these techniques will provide you with the truest molds and the most efficient applications to provide your layout with realistic rock formations. - 31503

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Manipulating Multiple Model Train Sets Electronically

By Daryl Clayton Kennedy

Model train lovers of all ages and skill levels will be the first to inform you that operating their layout is a blast with simply one locomotive circling the tracks. Those same modelers will also scream to you the excitement of handling 3 or 4 scale model locomotives traversing their rails.

If you want to experience the full trill of model railroading you've must have a solid grip on cab controls and the steady handed art of wiring. Switches and energy amplifying power packs are necessary tools needed in bringing these connections together. If it weren't for these instruments you'd have a difficult time maintaining momentum and keeping your trains out of harms way.

Resolving Problems of Controlling Several Model Trains In Your Layout

Manipulating locomotives separately requires each model train be hooked up to its own power pack. This will assure enough juice for your locomotive and the accessories located in that block to function. Blocks very in size and are separated by tiny electrically insulated gaps in your rails.

Switches are used to connect however many switches you have directly to the tracks via a wire from the switch to the track. Then the toggle switch reaches out to one of the cabs with an additional wire. There is a common connection or wire between however many cabs you support and the rail opposite your switches wire on the tracks. These wires are also many times referred to as the Block Feeder and Common Feeder.

Your switch will also have a wire called a common connection that interlocks each individual cab, creating a web of well disciplined electrical communication. The cab is responsible for informing your trains engines which way to run and how fast to get there. The magic of this electrical orchestra can only be accomplished if the switch is also connected to the opposite rail of its Block Feeder.

With great power comes great responsibility. You now have the yard by the ears so it's important to keep your eyes open and your ears peeled to avoid any collisions or poor timing in switching near turnouts or throughout the rest of your track. As you have more locomotives rolling on your lines the chances for collisions climbs higher.

Ok, that's the basics This information is sure to give you insight into the electronic requirements of operating multiple locomotives around a single layout. - 31503

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Electronic Hurdles of Running Multiple Model Trains

By Daryl Clayton Kennedy

As a model train enthusiast you are familiar with the joys of conducting one model train on a single layout. It's safe to assume that manipulating multiple locomotives is twice or perhaps three times as gratifying.

To grab hold of the throttle and speed up one train, slow down another, and keep a third from slamming into them both, you must embrace cab control techniques and wiring required to make it tick! Power packs that AMP up power, toggle switches that choose your train of desired control and throttle cabs are the crucial tools needed in dodging your own disastrous bullets!

Resolving Issues Surrounding Conduction of Scale Model Locomotives

Independent control of separate trains requires you connect each model train to a separate power pack through different blocks of track. Blocks are electrically isolated sections of track divided by insulation in your rails.

Connected to tracks by a Feeder, the switch has a flap in it's mechanism that diverts current when moved or toggled. The diverted current travels to chosen cab where it can shout out commands to its favorite locomotive. The switch responsible for this passing of information is connected to a block of track by a feed know as a Block Feeder.

The switch also has feeds leading to each individual Cab or speed and directional controller. The cabs are interlinked by a connection called a common connection. This common connection or wire that connects the cabs then leads from both cabs to the alternate rail the switches Block Feeder is attached to.

All this wiring and controlling of speed and direction means you as a model train engineer must keep on your toes when running multiple locomotives. You must pay very special attention to your switches, speed and directions to avoid any Casey Jones Scenarios!

That's the basics. We hope this information is useful and keep tuning in for more on model trains and model train electronics. - 31503

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Diesel Locomotives and Model Train Maintenance

By Daryl Clayton Kennedy

Yes! You're correct, most model trains today come ready to run. Don't let this fact let slip away from you the importance of pre-run inspections and frequent tune ups.

More than likely your locomotives chassis will be a snap to release. Seriously... it will snap off once you spread the bottom of the casting.

Once casting is lifted and electronics are exposed, place locomotive on track and trouble shoot for such poor operations as stuttering, binding gears, slow starts and odd noises. Make absolutely sure your trains trucks are resting comfortably. If you notice your train resting uncomfortably it may be necessary to adjust screws or reset truck.

An almost instinctive first plan of attack is cleaning wheels. By purging your wheels of imminent dust clusters, you limit dust entering your motor and bogging down performance. To clean wheels attach test leads to motor, ignite engine, flip locomotive upside down and with your free hand apply abrasive block on wheels until they shine like new!

Mechanical Checks Are Always Wise Following Wheel Cleanings

After your locomotives wheels are clean take apart their gearbox and inspect for plastic shavings and also take this opportunity to clean the inside of your gearbox. Once clean and dry, apply lubricant as needed. Be carefully not to apply access amounts as this can lead to the very problems you where attempting to avoid.

Pay extra special attention to the electrical connections housed in the trucks. These smooth metallic surfaces are the direct channel currents take when talking to your loco.

Finally, once tune up is complete, test your locomotive safely and enjoy the freedom and relaxation of your model train set.

In rapping things up you should be assured that once the above instructions have been followed you and your family will enjoy the fine hobby of modeling even more as you'll have cut your chances of having a really bad day expediently. By adjusting trucks and making sure they rest evenly on tracks and also by spit shinning your wheels for tangent connections you are lining yourself up for smooth rides and historical runs. If for any reason you should encounter problems simply trouble shoot familiar mechanical locations around your loco and test once more. If problems insist, it's not unheard of to have acquired a potentially bad decoder or possibly some other poorly functioning electrical component. - 31503

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Life of Legendary Train Engineer - Casey Jones

By Daryl Clayton Kennedy

In in'63 somewhere in southeast Missouri, a legend was born to Frank and Ann Jones. John Luther Jones was the oldest of five children blessing Frank and Ann

John was interested in trains early in life. Around- yrs of age... John moved with his family to C-A-Y-C-E Kentucky.

John developed an ever deeper appreciation of locomotives while in the small town of Cayce. At 15 John determine he wanted to be an engineer, which was about as good a paying job as one could receive in the late'00s.

Johns dreams landed in his lap when the Mobil & Ohio Railroad offered the 6"4' legendary engineer a position on their team. It's hard work and challenging at times but that's what Casey loved.

Upon the request of the H&O Railroad, John moved to Jackson, Tennessee in'81. While in Jackson the soon to be famous HERO lived in a popular boarding house. When asked where he was from....... John replied... CAYCE Kentucky!

The other engineers added the tag... and John Luther J. has been CASEY JONES ever scenes. The spelling of Casey as we're familiar is C-A-S-E-Y... although the town where Casey originates is spelled C-A-Y-C-E!

Casey married southern bell Janie Brady in'86. The pair had three children. Helen, John, and Charles. In'90 Casey's wish came true and he was promoted to engineer and given his very own route.

The Following Years Groomed a Legend

Casey's punctuality was such that one could set their watch by it! Casey's reputation remains iron clad, it's his desperation to keep his reputation that seals his fate.

The Year is'00 and Casey Will Soon Be a Legend

Their's trouble on the line and Casey is asked to pull an additional run as his fellow engineer was unable to make the trip. The run is behind when Casey takes the gears and he's forced to push the mighty engine to it's peak. Casey and his passengers are headed to Canton Tennessee only to discover trouble with the switch's ahead.

Casey Steamed Mighty #382 Passed 100mph

When taking over the run Casey was 40 minutes to the rear, although by the time he'd reached his destination he and fireman Sim Webb cut that time into 10 minutes. In a desperate attempt to maintain his reputation of arriving on time, Casey Pushed Forward at record breaking speeds.

There was trouble ahead as Casey and Sim where unaware of the broken switch at the stop ahead. The fouled switch caused two trains to be forced to rest back to back length wise forcing the end caboose and two other cars to hang out too far on the rails.

Trouble Ahead as Disaster Approached Casey at 75mph

Too late... No chance of stopping. Casey's Engine #382 is headed for a collision that will echo across the world and make Casey last words infamous... JUMP Sim, JUMP!

Sim later recalled that day and Casey's famous last words. With his hands gripping the break for his passengers and the lives of the poor souls ahead.

CRASH... the engine slammed hard like an atomic bomb! Casey saved everyone but himself as his tenacity on the break provided enough slowing to reduce their speed enough to where the passenger cars in tow where unscathed and no one was killed.

When they found Casey he was no longer alive although reported to be still gripping the break. Casey Jones died an american hero! - 31503

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Great Alternative to Manually Cleaning Model Train Tracks - Track Cleaning Cars

By Daryl Clayton Kennedy

The two rail cleaners that stand out above the rest in function and quality are of a simply design. Before their identities are exposed I'd like to inform you that these widgets come in a variety of inconspicuous costumes. Refrigeration cars, stock locomotives and Yep... even box cars!

The prototypes pull extra duty as cleaning cars. They piggyback heavy rough sheets of Masonite carefully hitched to the underbelly of any locomotive you wish to bond Masonite cleaning attachment to. Made of heated, treated, pressurized wood shavings, this composite is a perfect tool for aggressively polishing your tracks while seemingly undergoing normal layout operations. These assistive cleaning slabs come in HO, S, N, G, and O scale attachments.

I recommend sliders, better known as track cleaners that utilize the rolling method of cleaning rail. They too can be found in HO, O, G, S, and N scales.

Recommendation 1... Centerline Products manufactures a variety of gauges. These home made cleaners work by the roller rotating as the locomotive advances on the rails. When you see black streaks lining the paper towel as it's drug along things are progressing smoothly.

Liquid cleaners also work with this tool. I use Goo Gone as it proves itself each and every time! There are other solutions like electrical cleaners which work when applied appropriately. Many old timers who've been around a while like using a solution known as NO-OX. This product is an electrical cleanser and is said to really deliver a bang for your buck as it requires tiny amounts to cover vast areas of rail.

Recommendation 2... Sliding Track Cleaners. These instruments come in multiple forms to provide methods of cleaning for the many different styles of track and layouts covering the model railroad hobby. HO, N, S, G, they all have an attachment capable of traversing these Gauges. The coolest thing is you can attach the apparatus to a car and spectators wont be the wiser as their untrained eyes will only see a box car or caboose but you'll know that you're secretly providing entertainment and performing a few hands off maintenance duties to boot.

A Tiny Bit of Creativity and You Can Construct Your Own Track Cleaner - 31503

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Starting a Model Train Collection

By Kristyna Shalmar

Children have perpetually fallen in love with trains, both boys and girls. They seem to have a type of delightful magic about them. Children usually get keyed up once they see and hear a train speeding by. It can be fun to have one going over you on a bridge or passing one on the road as you count the number of train cars on it.

There are many stories and shows that lend trains to the inventive minds of children. Most of us can recall reading The Little Engine that Could. This is a timeless tale concerning a train that kept pushing itself to reach the top of the peak despite all the odds being against it. This is often a great story to encourage children from a young age to by no means give up because they can do anything they put their minds to. Thomas the Train has become a terribly popular icon for children these days. This fun blue train can be found in books and on TV. Thomas the Train is an interactive program that encourages children to learn valuable skills including counting and reading. There are educational learning opportunities including oral hygiene and getting along with others.

Several adult collectors of train memorabilia found their interest in trains during their childhood years. It's a logical next step for kids who love trains to grow and develop their appreciation for railroad collectibles.

You will find the market is stuffed with interactive trains for kids of various ages to enjoy. Some of them sing songs or play music. Others allow them to push them along or they go by themselves with the touch of a button. Your kid can find hours of entertainment with trains from a very early age.

For older kids, you'll want to invest in a model train set. They'll spend hours fixing the track and the train so as to get it to travel around and around. There are such a lot of nice accessories that they can add to the mix that they will personalize it to suit their style in no time.

If there's a kid in your life who loves to look at or browse about trains, you might wish to introduce them to their initial train kit. Relying on the kid, you will or may not wish to incorporate them in choosing the type of train they can receive as a gift.

It's not uncommon for fathers or grandfathers to pass their trains on to their youngsters or grandchildren. This may be a outstanding family heirloom that your child can continually treasure. As time goes by many of these early models of trains can continue to increase in value.

Some kids may choose to pursue their love of trains into adulthood and be in a position to turn it into a career that they love. If you're looking for a gift for a child that will not just get pushed into a corner and forgotten, consider having a look around for a top quality train set. You might be the one they remember for helping them to begin a favorite collection. - 31503

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Railway Modelling: Tips For Making Your Own Model Railways From Scratch

By Sam Allen

Staring a new hobby can be daunting, and model railway building is no different. The various books and magazines tend to filled with jargon and can be difficult for beginners to follow. For this reason, it is a good idea that beginners get themselves a simple starter pack.

Another place you will find good, practical advice and plenty of encouragement is by joining your local modelling club. But to get you started here are a few tips to think about.

You should first ask yourself if the model is for children or for adults. While there is great enjoyment for both, the requirements are quite different. If the model is for adults getting the detail right is going to provide greater satisfaction. Whereas if the model is for children to enjoy, it will need to be robust enough so they can play with it.

One of the first decisions you will need to take is what gauge track to use. Basically, track gauge is the distance between the two rails. A larger gauge model tends to require more space. If space is limited a smaller gauge is probably your best choice. This decision influences how the model will develop.

The next feature of your model to think about is the layout. Novices to model railway building are advised to stick to the standard oval track starter kits are set up for. Another good layout for beginners to start with is the simple, straight layout.

Having got the basic issues sorted out, then you start thinking about the details, such as track length, the size and positioning of your station, the detail of the scenery, and that is where your creative side comes out.

Setting up your first model is the best way to enable you to get to grips with the basic skills and the jargon of model railway building. Once you are confident with these skills you will then be able to develop and extend your model in ways you have always dreamed about. - 31503

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Model Train Scale: Size Does Matter

By Dee Ross

Getting started in model train building requires that you make a decision right off the bat as to what model train scale that you are going to build your collection around. This is going to decide how much space you will need for building and the variety of accessories that you have to choose from.

The smallest of all of the model train scales is the N scale. These are more like matchbox scale as they are only 3" long. If you are challenged for space, you are will not find a better size to work with. You can still have a pretty extravagant set up, it will just be done with miniatures.

HO scale is the most popular and widely recognized model train scale on the market. Twice the size of the N scale car at 6", this is the perfect selection if you have the room. With the most accessories and cars available for expansion, this size is the model train enthusiasts' first choice when starting a small layout with large scale expansion planned.

From there, you have the O scale that is slightly larger at 9 inches long. Lionel is best known for these trains and has been making them for over 100 years. If you have the space, they are great, but more than likely you are going to see them in department stores more than anything else. You know that huge display that surrounds Santa every year? It is probably an O scale train.

G scale is the "Big Daddy" of model railroading. G or "Garden" scale trains are built particularly for outdoor use. The cars are 16" long and 6" high, making these the only choice for an outdoor display where room is not a factor. They can be routed through the yard in a variety of ways to make your neighbors green with envy.

As you look over the different model train scales, keep in mind how much space you can dedicate to your hobby. The bigger the train, the more room that you are going to have to dedicate to the set. It is not only about the size of the car, it is about how much room the trains need to properly operate on the track. This is why HO scale is often recommended for the home layouts.

The average train set is run on a 110 volt transformer, so there is no real need to have an extra heavy duty power supply to operate these. Adults and children alike will enjoy countless hours, setting up, building and expanding their home model railroad. So whether you are looking just to put a small layout in the garage for weekend hobby time or setting up the biggest display for Christmas this side of the Mississippi, there is a model train scale that is right for you. - 31503

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If It's a Train, It Has To Be Lionel Model Trains

By Dee Ross

When someone says model trains, one name inevitably comes to mind, Lionel model trains. If you had a train set as a child or if your parents put one up only around the tree at Christmas time, odds are it was a Lionel. The Lionel train has been around since 1901.

It may be hard to believe, but the first train sets were actually meant for displays in stores. However, people quickly became fascinated with the model trains, and Lionel was right there to accommodate them by making smaller versions that were perfect for those that wanted enjoy these fascinating trains in their homes.

In 1915, electricity was becoming more popular and Lionel model trains were right there it implement the technology to create electric model train sets. They made these trains in the O scale and they quickly became the favorite style of train for most home model train collectors. It was at this time that the reputation of Lionel started to build to what it is today.

While there are some trains that require a lot of work to get rolling, Lionel is not one of them. If you don't have a track in place, you will obviously have to put it down, but otherwise they are ready to go as soon as they come out of the package. Your trains will be rolling as soon as you can get them home.

The Lionel model trains post war engines and cars have become some of the most sought after collectibles in the world. Not just by train enthusiasts, art collectors and antique buffs realize the historic value in owning one of the cars or even a complete set. The older models were made from very heavy gauge steel and weighed in at about 4 pounds for the locomotive alone.

When people are getting into something for the first time, they will often go with a proven name brand. Lionel model trains have that reputation and so much more. Not only are you getting a name brand that has been around almost forever, but one that has always been one of the leaders in the model train industry.

From locomotives to freight cars, Lionel still makes a complete line of trains and train set accessories. Available at almost any hobby shop or toy store, you will find exactly what you need when shopping for that perfect gift for the child in your life, even if that child is you. - 31503

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Building An Exciting Model Railroad with Model Train Software

By Dee Ross

While building a model train was something that you used to by trial and error, modern technology now allows you take this old time hobby and introduce the computer age to it to create a flawless design that is sure to please. Model train software is the latest and greatest and you are going to be surprised how easy this software is going to make your life.

Besides being able to create a track design right down to the most minute detail, you are also going to be able to create things like building layouts and even scenery enhancements with your model train software. Once you get the hand of it, it is almost as addicting at the track and scenery construction.

Before model train software came around, you had to do everything by hand and hope beyond hope that you had all of your measurements correct. I am sure that I am not the only one that was at the end of the table and still have a few pieces to go before I put my turn in. Those mistakes will never happen again with this new tool.

The layout is only a small part of the picture. You can also create some great scenery and things like billboards and all different types of logos. You can bring your track into the modern day or take it way back if you want to. You are literally going to have a design studio at your beck and call.

For those of you that like to run multiple tracks at the same time, you can get switching and scheduling model train software. Now there is no need to sit at the controls and hope that you have everything timed out perfectly. Hook up the software and your trains are running as regular as Amtrak. Well, maybe that was a bad example.

To bring in a touch of reality, get some sound effects software. Those trains may be small, but you can have the whistle of a true locomotive coming right out of it. Imagine the kids surprise when the train comes roaring around the corner and it sounds just like the ones on the real tracks. It is pretty exciting stuff!

If you are intimidated by computers, don't be. This type of software is about as easy as it gets to figure out and so simple a caveman could do it! Just kidding, it really is simple and you should have no problems mastering it in very little time. Model trains are addicting enough, now with this new tool, you can take everything to the next level. - 31503

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