Everything on model trains, model railroads, model railways, locomotives, model train layouts, scenery, wiring, DCC and more. Enjoy the world's best hobby... model railroading!
Track Cleaning
Lou sent in this question for others to answer:
“After 40 years I decided to try my hand at model railroading again (boy has it changed). I am 75 and retired so I have to watch the dollars. That being said I went to Ebay to buy used track, and got some really good deals. My question is what is the best way and or product to clean Atlas Brass Track.”
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Common Scales and Gauges for Model Railroads
A scale is the ratio of model trains to real trains. It can also be expressed as millimeters per foot or fractions of an inch per foot. A gauge is the distance between tracks. The standard distance is 1435mm (4 foot 8-1/2 inches) or the equivalent distance ratio. Any measurement less than this is called a narrow gauge and any measurement greater than this is called wide gauge.
|
Scale |
Ratio |
Gauge (mm) |
| HO Scale | 1:87 | 16.5 |
| OO Scale | 1:76 | 16.5 |
| O Scale | 1:43 | 32 |
| S scale | 1:64 | 16.5 |
| N Scale | 1:160 | 9 |
| G scale | 1:22 | 45 |
Runaround Tracks Explained
Shane sent in this brief article to share:
A runaround track allows a train to move in front or at the back of another train or locomotive. It is usually used at the terminal of a branch line to prevent the train from reversing direction.
A runaround track easily switches between carriages. Switches are installed at both ends, allowing a locomotive to push another car into a point facing spur by going around it in parallel. This is useful when trains return from a trip and drop off cargo. Using engines at both ends of a train eliminates the need of ‘running around’.
Installing a Tortoise Switch Machine
Malcolm sent in this short article:
A tortoise switch machine is a DC device used for controlling turnouts. Their precision, due to their slow speed, makes them ideal for use in a model railroad.
- Bend the spring wire at an angle of 15o and 80 o at two points. The distance between the points must be three-fourth of an inch.
- Place the fulcrum onto the rails.
- Mount the machine on a wooden template, and attach it onto the fulcrum using adhesive.
- Fix the spring wire through the fulcrum such that the bent side is inserted into the throw arm.
- Connect the machine to power.
Marklin Z Scale Repair
Ray asks readers for help:
“Where can I get a complete truck assembly for a Marklin z sale crocodile?”
Rail Trucks
Andrew has a question for others in the hobby:
“Can someone help. I am looking for plans of Rail Trucks or photos.”
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Clever Idea To Avoid Damage To Trains Derailing (and a question)
John sent in this helpful suggestion and also has a question he is hoping someone can answer for him:
We know that 4×8′ (HO) and 2×4′ (N) tables are basics for smaller model train layouts, as most tables and plywood come in 2×8′ and 2×4′ sizes. This size is a good starting point for beginners, and many of today’s great modelers started and learned with smaller layouts. But there is one problem.
Using N-Scale as an example, the 2×4′ table is great if you use 9-3/4″ radius curves in making a basic oval, but trouble arises when you try to make a two-train set-up using 11″ curves outside the 9-3/4″ loop. The larger curved radius brings the track right to the edge of the table, leaving the train where it could easily fall or be knocked onto the floor. But a way around this does exist, as the outside of the train board can be increased an inch or so on each side. The outer track would then stay on the solid board, while the added edges can be used for scenery such as rocks, trees, lichen, or building flats.
Many possibilities can be used to make these edges, such as wood, extruded insulation board, or plastic. There is one substance that I’m not able to remember the name – it’s something like pipe-wrap with an opening all along one end, but is plastic and a lot sturdier. I believe this material is used on trim wood for paneling. Does someone know the name of this product please?
DCC Conversion
Jay wants to convert to DCC and asks others in the hobby for advice:
“I have 10 trains 4 are O scale and 6 HO scale. What do I need to do to switch them to DCC. I have no computer skills.”
G Scale SF Cable Car
Richard has a question for anyone with knowledge of G scale and asks:
“I am currently building a G-scale SF cable car from Occre. Would anyone happen to know where I could buy a pair of circular beacon lights for the opposite front panels of this model. Diameter would be .25 inch. Voltage should be 6-12v. DC. I also would like to install 4 overhead lamps to hang from the underside of the roof of the cable car, same voltage, diameter to be 3/16 inch. Color of these lights is clear. Finally, there are 4 pilot lights that need to be installed in the 4 corners of the roof top of the model. Color is yellow, voltage 6-12v. Diameter would be. 1/8 inch.”
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HO P2K Refits
Bruce has a question for those in the hobby who know something about HO P2K refits:
“After many years of not modeling, I have acquired a large number of P2K new in-box engines that I would like to update with sound and as I have heard of many problems with P2K from the early 2000s, it would appear that motor issues are also to be dealt with. Can the P2K shells be used with newer Athearn, Atlas or P2K sound power units? I have a total of 25 units.”
No Power To The Track
Gil wants advice from others in the hobby and asks:
“I laid my track, and it all ran smoothly. I wired up points – OK – all tested prior to Ballast – when dry went to test with Loco – guess what no power to track. I thought I would remove the Ballast from areas of the power contact, but still no go. Any thoughts would be appreciated.”
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TOMIX 6421 Track Cleaning Car
Peter asks readers:
“I hope someone can help me. I have acquired a TOMIX 6421 Track Cleaning Car. Unfortunately the instruction leaflet is in Japanese. Where could I obtain English instructions so that I can use it to clean my tracks. I have tried a number of sources but no-one can offer any positive help.”
HO Scale Roadbed Adhesives
Ed seeks advice from others in the hobby and asks:
“I am using the foam method for my base. What is the best glue to hold down the cork roadbed on the foam backing and what about removal for changes later?”
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No 1 Scale Garden Layout
Hans has a question for garden railway enthusiasts:
“I would like to know where I can get no 1 scale locomotives and rolling stock, and rails for an garden layout. I would prefer MARKLIN, but any a others with the detail of MARKLIN would also be acceptable.”
Paper and Plaster Scenery Construction
Ron has this question for others in the hobby:
“I am getting ready for some scenery on the layout. I was going to use paper wads under plaster cloth but a recent article said that the paper might absorb moister over time. What can I use other than paper?”
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Derailment Issues Sorted
Fred sent in this suggestion:
“It seems I Hopefully corrected my derailment issues if any old school guys out there are still using the old style track. My one suggestion is to use ceiling tiles so you can push the nails down with a flathead screwdriver and also secure your joiners snugly to prevent derailments using flex track your best bet is to use it on long stretches of plywood layouts so that way there are two chances for derailments a slim one and poor on.”
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