Cheap Lionel Trains Polar Express Train Set – O Gauge

The quality of the train speaks for itself. Easy to set up and operate. The unit I bought came with a 30 watt power pack (controller) with no accessory posts. The 30-watt controller provides inadequate power; make sure you get the 80 watt controller. The box calls for an 80-watt unit, but somehow I ended up with the wrong controller in my box. Other than that it’s been a lot of fun. Quality is what you’d expect from a flagship company like Lionel. I have since bought 3 more train sets and have assured myself of the correct controller. Have fun with it; I’m sure you family will love this train for years to come. As a side note, I bought the upgrade Sounds Tender, Chocolate Car, Hobo Car and the Santa’s Elfs handcar. Nice add-on which will enhance the pleasure of your Christmas train for years to come. Buy Lionel Polar Express O Gauge Train Set Black Friday Deals Lowest Price, Order Now! [Click Here!]

# Lionel Trains Polar Express Train Set – O Gauge review blog

Relate Products
Buys Lionel Polar Express Train Set O Scale, Buys Lionel Polar Express Train Set 6 31960, Buys Lionel Polar Express O Gauge Train Set, Want To Buy Lionel Polar Express Train Set O Scale

There are a few things to remember when designing custom layouts for HO scale railroad model trains. First – enjoy yourself! There is lots of room for creativity, just stay with in a few basic guidelines.

Some very useful online tools including free software to design your own railroad model layout; search for it – it is even fun to use. You can also do it the “old fashioned” way, using pencil and paper with a compass for curves and a ruler for straight-aways. Keep in mind that no matter how exact you are in your design, when it comes to laying the materials, some adjustments will always be necessary.

You can also design your layout right on location, placing track pieces and switches loosely in place to get a feel for what it will look like. You can move things around until you have it exactly the way you want it. This is known as “going free-lance.”

It’s helpful to deliberately leave openings for later changes and additions. Leave some space for a train yard you might be able to add later, or other details you might not have the time or money for in your railroad model right now. This makes for a rewarding, multi-stage project, growing in complexity over time.

There are several different types of yards you can add. A “hump” yard has a gentle slope with an uncoupler, allowing uncoupled cars to gently roll away from the mainline. A staging yard is a section of track deliberately hidden from view, where you send your trains to wait. It’s useful to simulate long-distance runs, or simply for storage purposes.

One important guideline to keep in mind is the minimum radius for your turns, which in HO scale model trains is 18 inches for 4 axle diesels and 22 inches for 6 axle diesels. As a general rule, things will look and work best with 24 inch radius turns. For a full circle, this means 48 inches diameter, so you will need slightly more than a 4 foot wide space for such a layout.

Another important guideline is the maximum grade, which for HO scale model trains is 4%. What this means is that you should take 100 horizontal inches to rise 4 vertical inches. And that’s a maximum. Try to keep hills somewhat less steep than that. And test your engines to find out what they can handle and how many cars they can pull up that grade you’re creating.

To simulate greater height, instead of creating a steep climb for the rails themselves, drop the ground level underneath. You can create some breathtaking gorge and valley scenery, or even just send a road or another track underneath.

For getting started with your first layout, it’s probably best to stick with sectional track, which is fairly easy to snap together. More advanced modelers of HO scale model trains prefer to construct their layout from flex track. It comes in bundles, so it’s generally cheaper, and, as its name implies, it is a very versatile option, with greater opportunity for customization. It will make your railroad model look good. You can create small, brief curves with more natural lead-ins as opposed to being restricted to standard radii and straightaways in the snap-together sets.

A final point to consider in your design is to be sure you will be able to get to all parts of the finished layout for maintenance purposes. Some advanced modelers constructing larger layouts will even make “access hatches”, large holes covered by a movable portion of scenery, where they can come up from beneath and actually stand in the middle to work on those less accessible portions. Be sure the opening is large enough to comfortably stand and move around in. The scenery on the removable section should be light and durable for ease of handling. You may also want to create a screen of trees or some other visual obstruction in front of the removable section.

Click here to download our free HO scale model trains guidebook filled with helpful tips, ideas and information.

So you’ve finally decided which new layout you want for your Bachmann model trains. You’ve carefully planned your train expansion and realize you must now consider expanding your power source. When working with any brand of train set, power packs play an important role.

Unfortunately, a starter train set is rarely sufficient for your goals and it doesn’t take long to realize how much better the experience will be with a bit of additional power. Even worse is the fact some power packs aren’t even afforded adequate protection against burnouts; which is a risk to your investment. With those thoughts in mind, we’ve put together a few buying tips and general guidelines that will help you decide the best power pack for your own train set.

So what exactly is a power pack’s purpose in the world of Bachmann model trains? Simply put, power packs serve as rectifiers that alternate from A.C. to D.C. and they include transformers that monitor the voltage and incorporate a rheostat that works as a variable resister allowing better control over the speed of the train. Don’t let this overwhelm you- the good news is all of the variables and formulas have already been incorporated into the many power packs on the market. Your biggest task will be selecting the right one for your needs.

Many enthusiasts will suggest incorporating a separate power source for accessories. If your model toys include many of the bells and whistles such as lights and the ability to switch machines, it’s recommended your incorporate one of these separate power packs. It will eliminate the frustrating slowing of your train each time you command your other accessories. Ideally, a two amp power pack will serve the purpose, but at least consider a one amp pack. This will ensure fewer power surges and interruptions.

At this point, you may wish to consider adding a pulse switch. This allows half the A.C. wave cycle to be directed towards a rapidly pulsating D.C. One advantage to incorporating a pulse switch is the ability to better manipulate your Bachmann model train set at lower speeds while helping the motor to overcome friction. It’s important to note despite the advantages of adding a pulse switch, there is always the risk of the motor overheating which might cause it to burn out. Although this isn’t common, it’s important to know the possibility exists. One way to avoid this is to ensure the gears aren’t too tightly wound and sufficient lubrication is in place to avoid overheating.

Finally, as with everything else electrical these days, the world of Bachmann model trains has kept pace with the technological advances of contemporary times. Today’s electronic packs are designed to release a quick first surge of power to get your model train set moving until it’s receiving D.C. at higher speeds.  The changes in the throttle determine spikes in frequencies, thereby ensuring a more realistic start with no jumps or shortages. Other new advances include throttles that you can move around with and radio controlled throttles that ensure complete control over your train set. You even have the option of command throttles that allow you to run multiple independent trains simultaneously.

As you can see, when it comes to train set power packs, plenty of options abound. It’s not as overwhelming as it seems. Following these tips can bring any Bachmann model trains to their highest output for maximum enjoyment. A bit of knowledge will arm you as you begin the search for the right power pack that meets your needs.

Click here to download our free train set guidebook filled with helpful tips, ideas and information.

Model train hobbyists of all ages enjoy Lionel model train sets as well as other great brands like Bachmann, Hornby and Athearn. Every hobbyist knows they cannot run their trains until their train sets are successfully set up. This article provides tips for setting up any train sets.

First, remove all of the contents from the box and take inventory of them. Compare them with the list that indicates the parts that should be included with the kit. Group like-pieces together and place all of them on a table. Since, all of the kits components are needed to successfully assemble the train set, do not hesitate to contact the hobby shop, if a piece is missing. You may need to return the kit or just be provided with the missing piece. The sooner you do this, the more likely any issues will be addressed and overcome.

Set up the track. Start with connecting two rail pieces. Look for the rail joiners on each opposing rail end to connect each piece to the other. Rail joiners are the necessary metal pieces of the rail which balance the track and let the flow of electricity pass through as the train runs at various speeds, fast or slow. Rail joiners are easy to find at the neighborhood hobby shop. They are also easy to assemble using needle nose pliers which also work well to tighten loose joiners you may run across during assembling the track. One of the best features of Lionel trains is in their quality rail construction which features joiners implanted in the rail of a three-rail system. They are designed in an easy to put together way where they do not have to be adjusted, unless you feel the desire to. And if you do, they can still easily be moved using the same needle nose pliers you already have around the house.

Brands like Tru-Track and EZ-Track have track and roadbed groupings. These are commonly found in new track sets. Roadbed clips hold loose rail joiners in a more secure fashion which makes aids in making assembly and post train function worry free.

Surface considerations, if addressed early will help you avoid the mistake most modelers make. Do not set up the train set on floors that are soiled or are thick carpeted, as the loop from carpets or fuzz and debris will cause the locomotive to not operate at its best. With this in mind, the recommended way to build a train layout (board) is right on the table. Additionally, if you tack down the track, you will less likely experience loose pieces falling after apart after assembly.

Gain additional power from your train set by soldering wires right under the metal rail joiners. Since most new trains come with terminal joiners for this purpose, this is an easy adjustment to make. Most new train sets require some minor wiring for operating performance. Some Lionel model train sets utilize power from the middle track roller.

IMPORTANT: UNPLUG AND TURN OFF THE POWERPACK BEFORE CONTINUING To begin connecting up the wiring, use a pair of scissors or wire strippers and remove about 1/2″ length of covered insulation off of the wires. Next, wrap the wires around the screws and tighten them up so there is no slack. Alternately, put the wires in the clips of the terminal if your track has clips instead of screw. Take the other end of the terminal wire to the “track only” side and run it to the power pack. Otherwise, if applicable, based on the model, use the little plugs provided with the track, instead.

After completing the set up steps, the best test to make sure everything works is letting the train sets start running. First, put the engine on the track. Next, add the cars. Finish by clipping them all together to complete the set. Check the placement of wheels on the track and remove all debris from track. Re-plug in the power pack and turn on the train. Start slowly, increase the speed. If the train moves backwards, turn it off and unplug the power pack. Next, switch the wires and retest. Congratulations, your Lionel model train set is ready to run!

Click here to download our free train sets guidebook filled with helpful tips, ideas and information.

Building bench-work for the first time for your model railroad is an exciting moment! To create a good first layout for HO scale model trains, a great way to start is with a basic plan for 4 x 8 foot bench-work. You are essentially building a table from a piece of plywood and will construct your exciting new layout on that. Below are some instructions for building a good, solid bench-work for your layout, starting with a materials list and moving into instructions.

The materials you will use include the following:

1 4 x 8 sheet of plywood (a good size for HO scale model trains; use 5/8 inch B-C grade plywood)

3 1×4 x8’ (for edge supports)

4 1×4 x8’ ripped into 1×2 stock (for 5 joists, plus bracing)

1 1×4 x10’ ripped into 1×2 stock (for bracing between legs)

1 2×4 x8’ ripped into 2×2 stock (this is for the table legs and is enough for a max height of 48 in)

1 box (100) 1-3/4” dry wall screws (will use 72 of these)

8 1/4×3” carriage bolts (for bolting on the table legs)

8 ¼” washers (for table legs)

8 ¼-20 nuts (for table legs)

1 pint yellow carpenter’s glue (not white, use yellow since it is waterproof)

The tools you will use include the following:

2 saw horses (optional)

1 saw (Almost anything will work – a saber saw or “Skil” saw or table saw or hand cross-cut saw. If buying a first saw, a saber saw will probably be most useful in future model railroad endeavors.)

1 3/8” reversible electric drill

1 bit to fit drywall screws

1 5/16” drill bit (for carriage bolts)

1 1/8” drill bit for pilot holes

1 adjustable crescent wrench or open or closed end wrench to fit nuts

1 carpenter’s square

You’ll start with the tabletop, a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood. This is a good size for HO scale model trains, because it allows space for a track layout a bit more interesting than a mere oval or circle. You only need one good side on the plywood, and while that does need to be fairly smooth, it doesn’t have to be grade-A perfect, since you’ll be covering it up with track, accessories, scenery and other details. So go with the B grade for the good side, it’s less expensive than A.

This large sheet of plywood is rather floppy on its own, so it needs support to stiffen it before you set up a model railroad on it. The first step is a frame around the outer edge. Build the frame first, and then screw the plywood to it. Take two 8 foot lengths of 1×4 and two 3’ 10-1/2” lengths. You will want to screw and glue them together, because nails tend to work themselves loose with the vibrations of the model railroad and the occasional jostling of the table.

Prepare the end of an 8’ side piece by drilling two pilot holes where screws will go into the shorter end pieces. Don’t make the holes too big. They should be just large enough to pass each screw. Prepare the end of one of the 3’ 10-1/2” end pieces by rubbing yellow carpenter’s glue into the end grain until it’s fairly well-saturated. Then run an additional bead of glue along it. Press onto end of 8’ piece and screw together using pilot holes. Repeat at each of the four corners. Allow to dry.

Now, take the sheet of plywood and screw it onto the frame, good side up (B side up, C side should be touching the frame). Do not glue the plywood to the frame, as you may need to remove it from the frame later to build a lake or adjust the levels of your track.

You can drill this together in two ways; you can use a “pilot drill” and No 8 x 1-3/4 in flathead wood screws. Or you can use drywall screws with regular drill and drywall screw bit. With drywall screws, they are self-tapping, meaning you will not need to predrill any holes except if you are at the end of a piece of lumber and trying to avoid splitting.

Now the plywood has been stiffened on the edges and you are ready to add joists to firm up the middle. Turn the apparatus over so it is frame-side up. Take five 1 x2’s the same length as the short end pieces (3’ 10-1/2”) and screw them at intervals to the side pieces of the frame in such a way that they bear up against the plywood. Do not screw them to the plywood tabletop.

Now you are ready for the legs and bracing. You need to decide on the height you want your layout to be, whatever seems appropriate for HO scale model trains. For ease of viewing those lifelike details on the model railroad, it’s common to make the display height fairly tall, just below eye level. I’ve seen recommendations ranging from 42 to 56 inches. (For comparison, most writing desks or dining tables are around 28 to 31 inches.) If your viewing audience includes children, consider a lower height, such as 30 inches. Also consider ease of working on the center part of the scenery and track.

Cut four 2 x 2’s to your chosen height. Contrary to what you might think, the legs should not be mounted at the corners of the plywood. You will have a much sturdier table with less flex in the middle if you mount the legs 20% inward on each end. For an 8 foot long table, this means mounting the legs 19” from each end, measured along the long side.

Turn the table upside down (frame side up). Drill one 5/16” hole all the way through the side piece of the frame and into a leg. Leg should be flush with the plywood, and hole should be about ¾ to 1” up from the plywood. Stick a carriage bolt through from the frame side. Using fingers, tighten down a washer and nut onto the inside of the leg where the carriage bolt is sticking out. Now check that the leg is at right angles, using a carpenter’s square and carefully drill a second hole to keep it there.

The second hole should be ¾ to 1” from the other edge of the frame (the edge temporarily facing up) and you will add another bolt-washer-nut. Now use a wrench to tighten both nuts down solidly. Repeat the process for the other three legs. You really want to be sure to use the square to measure in both plains that all four legs are perpendicular.

Now you could stop here, but even so the table would be a bit wobbly, and you don’t want that when you are setting up your model railroad. For maximum stability, you will need to install additional bracing. At each of the shorter ends, use “X” bracing. Take two 1 x 2’s and fasten them as close to the floor as possible on one end and as close to the table as possible at the other (this makes four braces in all).

Then you will want to install double bracing on the long sides. Attach a 1 x 2 as close to the floor as possible and run it to the other end of the table. Attach another 1 x 2 as close to the floor as possible and attach it to a point towards the middle of the table (this makes eight braces in all). This bracing may seem unsightly, but it is worth it. You can hang cloth curtains from the edge of the finished table to hide it, if you like.

Finally, if your floor is not level and even, you can make the legs adjustable. Drill a 5/16” pilot hole into the bottom (the end) of each leg in the center. Hammer in a ¼” T-nut. Now thread on a ¾” bolt. This makes each leg independently adjustable to compensate for the unevenness in the floor.

Congratulations! The fine new bench-work for your model railroad is now complete! Turn the table over and you have a solid and sturdy platform on which to enjoy constructing your new layout for HO scale model trains.

Click here to download our free HO scale model trains guidebook filled with helpful tips, ideas and information.

Whether you’ve purchased a Lionel train set or another brand of model railroad trains, you will need to know a few things about the power supply. This article offers some helpful tips from the National Model Railroad Association which can help you get off to a good start.

Something to remember is that the more intricate your layout, the more turns and other pieces, the more places you will need to add power, since those rail joints cause some resistance and the train will tend to slow down as it gets further away from the feeder wires coming from the original power source.

When adding power, always remember the “right-hand rule”. What this means is that, looking from the direction of the power pack, when you push the direction switch to the right, the engine will travel the track counterclockwise.

This rule is important to remember, so that you when you add any additional feeders, you wire them just the same, otherwise it will short-circuit. When following the right-hand rule, the outside rail is positive and the inside negative. Two rail model locos all operate on Direct Current (DC).

The best way to keep track of your wires so that positive and negatives match up is to use color-coded wire. Doorbell wire works well. It normally comes in small coils of 25 to 50 feet and #18 gauge, meaning it can handle the normal draw for a model railroad – telephone wire is too small a gauge, stick with doorbell wire. The insulating jacket on doorbell wire is red or white. You can use the red wire for positive and the white for negative. Then you just have to remember red for the outside rail, white for the inside rail. Remember, the rails are just extensions of the power pack wires, and provide the electricity to the engine.

Next, you will need to connect the wires to the rails in your layout. The best way is to solder on the feeder wire to the outside rail, but since this is your first layout and that can get complicated, it’s probably a good idea to just use a rail joiner purchased from a hobby shop, or at least solder them to a rail joiner if you already have soldering equipment. Soldering to the joiner yourself has the advantage that you can keep the color-coding purchased rail joiners have the same color wire on both sides.

With multiple feeder wires connected to your track to give that power boost so the train doesn’t slow down after getting further from the power pack, you may be tempted to double up the wires on the original terminals of the power pack. But the problem is the power pack vibrates, since it’s running on alternating current (AC). Some people have had problems such as wires coming off, etc. So the best plan is to go with an 8 terminal block and connect the wires to that instead of overloading the terminals in the power pack. You can buy one from a hobby shop or an electronics store – or even an auto parts store.

Now just strip back the insulation on each wire a little bit so you can wire the feeders from the power pack across to the new terminal block. Then, make a loop with the wiring from the first terminal screw of the positive half of the board to the second one and follow up with the negative on the negative side. After that, it’s simple to just connect the feeder wires from the track to the screws opposite the ones already used. And this way, each terminal screw will only have one wire on it. You’ll avoid the vibrations from the power pack and have a lot fewer problems with wires coming loose, etc.

For adding power to your first model railroad layout, that’s about all there is to it. Once you’ve completed this project, you can begin to think about expansions. Most enthusiasts don’t want to stop with their first Lionel train set, but go on to build expansions, which get into some interesting scenarios with adding feeder wires for switches and other more advanced connections.

Click here to download our free model railroad guidebook filled with helpful tips, ideas and information.

Designing and setting up the track layout for Bachmann model trains can be a fun and rewarding experience. Scale model trains require consideration of many facts while planning their design. This article provides some important facts about the track and ballast, and how these two components can work together to create an amazing surface for any scale model trains to run on.

Track is available in several finishes and sizes. When selecting a finish, choose nickel whenever possible. Though it is the most expensive option, brass is being phased out and steel oxidizes and attracts debris rapidly. Each track is assigned a code number which refers to the height of the rails. Code 100 is the most widely used, but Code 83 can be used for a more realistic look. The width of the track is called “gauge.” Whether you are running Bachmann model trains or Lionel or any other brand, all scale model trains must be the same gauge as the track in order to run properly. Bachmann trains and track come in several gauges with “O” and “HO” being the most popular.

After choosing a track, installation is easy and only requires a few basic steps. First, mark the positions for your track layout plan on the board surface. Next, lay out the track loosely on the plan and make sure everything fits securely. Don’t skip this step because adjustments and corrections are often required and it will be too late to make changes later. Next, nail as many rail spikes through the holes in the track as is needed to hold it firmly. Finally, insert electrical connection for power.

Ballast is the rocks or gravel placed in between the rails and ties. Ballast comes in a variety of sizes and colors, including custom colors, which can be made by mixing two or more standard colors. You can find ballast at local hobby shops or online. Choose a size and color appropriate for your scale model trains and native to the area of the design. Ballast also works universally across all brands so the same ballast that works with Bachmann trains will work just as well with Bachmann, Hornby and any other brand.

After the track is installed and painted, it is time to install the ballast. Use a teaspoon to slowly sprinkle the ballast, beginning with the inside rails and then moving to the outside. Keep the edges neat and straight and gently remove ballast off the rails with a soft brush. Be careful not to get any on the points.

Hobbyists have a great variety of track and ballast available to fit the needs of just about any track layout imaginable. These two components work together to make your scale model trains realistic and fun. Selecting the right size track in an appropriate finish, and completing it with ballast native to the area being portrayed helps convey the theme of the design. By taking care in selecting the correct size and finish, scale model trains hobbyists can take just as much pride in their track and ballast as they do in owning brands like Bachmann trains.

Click here to download our free scale model trains guidebook filled with helpful tips, ideas and information.

TRIANG TRAINSET
MECCANO TRIANG DOUBLE ENDED DIESEL
WITH COACHES AND TRACK
THIS IS A VERY UNIQUE COMPLETE TRAINSET
IDEAL FOR A SERIOUS COLLECTOR
THE TRAINSET IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION
WITH A SMALL AMOUNT OF PLAYWEAR
ORIGINAL BOX IS EXCELLENT VERY GOOD AND STRONG
FROM THE SIXTIES PERIOD
AS WITH ALL OUR TRAINS
THIS LOCOMOTIVE HAS BEEN
SERVICED AND TESTED

This is an excellent complete and very unique train set which was made in the triang factory in Calais in the mid sixties period. It would be hard to find one in a better condition, this super set is available to buy online from triang trains superstore of collectable model railway.

Triang Meccano Trainset

The Polar Express Train Set from Lionel is a great holiday item! Lionel train sets are built to last for years of year round or holiday fun!

Click Here to see the Polar Express O Gauge Train Set and all of the great accessories!

All Aboard!

A train toy is a key piece of any childhood. Thus, it is important to master the wiring of toy model trains to ensure they run as smoothly as possible. This way, your child can enjoy hours upon hours of great fun. Don’t worry: Even if you have little experience with wiring, you can definitely master this with a little practice. The following includes a basic guide to wiring model train toy layouts.

Before you begin, you should know that the larger your model train track is, the more complex wiring and set-up will be. Additionally, you may need to use a heavy gauge wire as a bus for the track and may also have to run a number of feeders. Experts recommend that you fasten your train track to a foundation so that it is as secure as possible. Plywood is generally an inexpensive and effective material to use for this.

One of the keys to wiring model train tracks is to keep track of which wire is which. Using different-colored wire is a great way to keep track of your wiring patterns. For example, you could have the outside rail wires be red and the inside ones white to mark the negative charge.

Most experts agree that the right hand rule of wiring is integral to a successful track layout. Basically, you want the train to travel the track layout to the right or counterclockwise direction from where you stand at the power pack. When wiring, this means that the outside rail would be positive (+) and the inside rail would then be a negative (-) rail. It’s important to keep in mind which rails are positive and negative so that wiring is made that much easier.

You can wire the toy train wires to the model’s track in a number of ways. The most popular way is to solder feeder wires to the outer side of your rail. An 8 place terminal block is a great way to keep track of your wires. For example, you can connect all of the wires here and keep yourself from doubling up wires in a power pack. You don’t want the vibration from the pack to result in loose or frayed wires. Attaching the wires from the pack to the block is easy: all you have to do is strip some of the insulation from the wire, loop it around one of the knobs or screws of the terminal, and match up the charges.

Beginners should start simple so that they can master the basics of wiring and soldering. Once you master a simple model train toy track layout and its wiring, you can start experimenting with more and more complex layouts and their wiring. Soon, you’ll have many trains running on interlocking and reversing loops of track.

Click here to download a free model train guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

For those interested in model toys, particularly that of the model train, one thing they will inevitably come across when commencing their hobby is the issue of how to wire their railway.

One of the most popular ways to do this is through the device called common rail wiring, the basic concept of which lies in always insulating the same piece of rail, while leaving the other one still connected. Sketch and/or draw a layout of your system that shows the dual tracks while marking the outer and inner rails as “plus” and “minus” respectively. In the example of an oval track layout, this means that the outer rail will always be positive no matter where it goes, and the inner rail will therefore also always be negative. The benefit of this is, once you have insulated the inside rail on every siding (even those controlled via on-off switches), the outer rail therefore becomes akin to common ground, while the inner rail resembles hot switched lead. This is why this method has become known as “common” rail wiring for the model train. Two different power packs are recommended for this system, both insulated from each other (such as in the cases where an oval is inside an oval), as they can then have the ability to control different areas of the layout in the same instances. Both packs need at least one wire to be attached to the common rail, with a second to go to either the insulated rail of the oval or to the sidings in order to be controlled.

The common rail system is a very popular one, primarily because it enables the system to pass on control from one of the packs to the other, with the model train on the track thus gaining power from the right side of the front truck at the same time as it is getting it from the left side of the rear truck. Minus the common rail, the model train would otherwise regard the insulated joint as a malfunctioning switch and would thus then just stall on the track. Just be prepared for the possibility of the model toys surging unexpectedly fast when crossing over the joint!

One last point – remember to double insulate on the section of the track where you require the train to reverse back on itself – this means that the positive rail will suddenly run smack bang into a negative rail, and thus an insulating gap and plastic joiner are essential here. A DPDT (double-pole, double-throw) switch will be required for this operation.

Aside from this, however, the common rail wiring should be the best solution for your model train toys system.

Click here to download a free model train guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

If you are considering buying a model train set, one of the first choices you have to make is what size to get. This article identifies the most popular scales and translates each scale into inches. Based on an analysis of Google searches, the most popular scale model trains are the HO scale and O scale. These two scales account for over half the searches, both in the United States and globally.

HO Scale trains lead the pack with 31% of total searches in the US compared to 30% of searches for O Scale trains. HO Scale also leads the pack globally with a dominant 49% of searches. The explanation for the popularity of HO scale trains is due more to the affordable prices and manageable size. HO scale trains are 1:87 scale, which means the cars are about 7-9 inches long. HO scale trains are about the right size for most beginner train hobbyists because the track layout usually fits well on a 4 x 8 piece of plywood.

Compare that to O scale model trains, which are 1:48 scale, which means the cars are about 12-16 inches long. Not only do O scale train sets take a lot more space to set up and to store, they also cost a lot more. As a result, the O scale trains are primarily purchased by more serious model trains hobbyists while the HO scale trains are primarily purchased by beginners and families looking for train sets as a Christmas gift.

The next leading scales are the N scale model trains with 20% of searches, followed by G scale with 16% of searches. N scale trains are 1:160 scale, which makes them even smaller than HO trains. Cars are only about 4-5 inches long for N scale. G scale trains are at the other end of the size spectrum with 1:22.5 scale, which means the cars are about 18-26 inches. G scale trains are too big to fit in most homes. They are most commonly used in outdoor gardens.

The only other scales getting any searches are Z scale and S scale. Z scale received 3% of total searches while S scale received less than 1%. Z scale trains are 1:220 scale, which is even smaller than N scale. Z scale is a popular choice for people who have only a very small space available such as a coffee table or a desktop. S scale trains are 1:64 scale , which is slightly larger than the popular HO scale and slightly smaller than the popular O scale. Despite being in the same size range as the two most popular scales, the S scale trains have not caught on for many hobbyists.

Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

Although Lionel offers several kinds of model trains and track, most of their sales come from O gauge trains. What’s an O gauge train? To better understand that, you first need to know a few things about scale and gauge.

Let’s start with scale. Model trains are scaled down trains–that is, smaller versions of real trains. A model train’s scale tells us its proportion in relation to the real train version. For example, a Lionel train is an O27 train, with a scale of 1:48 . This means that the Lionel train is 48 times smaller than its real train counterpart, with one-quarter inch equal to one scale foot. Due to their larger size, Lionel trains are easy to work with, especially for beginners.

Gauge–gauge is the distance between the rails of a railroad track. Standard track gauge is 4’ 8.5”. O gauge tracks are 1.25” apart. Something to be aware of, though, is that gauge and class specifications can vary internationally, so always check the exact measurements before buying internationally.

As O27 trains, Lionel trains are a bit different from standard O gauge trains. They run on O27 track, which is a bit shorter and narrower than standard O track. The difference can be seen when O27 track is laid out in a circle–an 8 piece circle of O27 track will be 27” across (an 8 piece circle of standard O track is 31” across). Love Lionel trains but have a lot of O track from other set-ups? That’s okay because you can use O track and O27 track together without any problem. Raise your track a little by using a shim, widely available at hobby shops.

Some companies, like Conrad, NZG, and Corgi manufacture die-cast, or metal, model trains that are also compatible with O scale track. This can lead to some interesting track set-ups, and die-cast trucks, cars, buses and construction equipment are popular with collectors.

Lionel trains are a good choice for many reasons. Beyond the ease of running an O27 train, they are also great for modelers looking to perfect model and replica trains. Their size is easy to work with (unlike the smaller N and Z gauge trains), and a great choice for children interested in railroading.

Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

One of the first things new model railroad enthusiasts learn is the terminology. Things like scale and gauge become everyday lingo. We’ve outlined some of the most popular scales used for these popular model toys. Keep reading and before long, you’ll be an old hand with all things model toys.

First things first, let’s define scale as it’s used in reference to model railroads: Scale is the proportion to an actual size train or its prototype; the smaller the scale, the more you can fit into your allocated model train area.

G Scale – 1:22.5 – G scale is most often used in garden layouts and is sometimes referred to as an LGB scale. It’s ideal for those who appreciate gardening and landscaping.

O Scale – 1:48 – Although similar to the O27 scale, there are a few differences which we’ll outline below. If your goal is to keep the proportions as realistic as possible, you should consider a large area to build around this scale. The trains are bigger than all other scales except for G scale, and incorporate DC currents.

O27 Scale – 1:48 – Similar to O scale, O27 is differentiated by the curves in the tracks. The O 27’s area is a 27″ arc or circle while the standard O Scale will encompass 31″. Another significant difference is the 27’s shorter and thinner rails. This is a particularly popular scale since there are so many accessories available that are life like and have working parts.

S Scale – 1:64 – It’s been said the S scale isn’t quite as popular as many of the others; however, many of us are sentimental and are drawn to this particular scale since it’s what we’re most familiar with from our childhoods.

HO Scale – 1:87 – Another popular scale, the HO is 1/87th in terms of comparison to the real thing. Its size is considered ideal and easily works on standard plywood sizes. This is another scale that offers a lot in accessories.

TT Scale – 1:120 – Many tend to avoid this scale simply because suppliers of accessories aren’t plentiful.

N Scale – 1:160 – Not the smallest scale, but very close. That said, it’s a popular scale for model toys since it’s perfect for those with limited space. Its size is half of what the HO offers. Like long curves and a lot of scenery? This might be your best
option.

Z Scale – 1:120 – This is the smallest sized trains, but ideal for really tight spaces or smaller bedrooms. Another strong point the Z scale brings to the table is its ease of transportation.

With just a little consideration and thought about how you intend to incorporate your model railroad into the available space, you can easily choose the best scale for your needs.

Click here to download a free railroad model toys guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

If you are considering buying a model train set, one of the first choices you have to make is what size to get. This article identifies the most popular scales and translates each scale into inches. Based on an analysis of Google searches, the most popular scale model trains are the HO scale and O scale. These two scales account for over half the searches, both in the United States and globally.

HO Scale trains lead the pack with 31% of total searches in the US compared to 30% of searches for O Scale trains. HO Scale also leads the pack globally with a dominant 49% of searches. The explanation for the popularity of HO scale trains is due more to the affordable prices and manageable size. HO scale trains are 1:87 scale, which means the cars are about 7-9 inches long. HO scale trains are about the right size for most beginner train hobbyists because the track layout usually fits well on a 4 x 8 piece of plywood.

Compare that to O scale model trains, which are 1:48 scale, which means the cars are about 12-16 inches long. Not only do O scale train sets take a lot more space to set up and to store, they also cost a lot more. As a result, the O scale trains are primarily purchased by more serious model trains hobbyists while the HO scale trains are primarily purchased by beginners and families looking for train sets as a Christmas gift.

The next leading scales are the N scale model trains with 20% of searches, followed by G scale with 16% of searches. N scale trains are 1:160 scale, which makes them even smaller than HO trains. Cars are only about 4-5 inches long for N scale. G scale trains are at the other end of the size spectrum with 1:22.5 scale, which means the cars are about 18-26 inches. G scale trains are too big to fit in most homes. They are most commonly used in outdoor gardens.

The only other scales getting any searches are Z scale and S scale. Z scale received 3% of total searches while S scale received less than 1%. Z scale trains are 1:220 scale, which is even smaller than N scale. Z scale is a popular choice for people who have only a very small space available such as a coffee table or a desktop. S scale trains are 1:64 scale , which is slightly larger than the popular HO scale and slightly smaller than the popular O scale. Despite being in the same size range as the two most popular scales, the S scale trains have not caught on for many hobbyists.

Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

Metal and wooden train models remain one of most beloved hobbies for many of us. It’s a way to connect with our children as well as a way to take our own trips down memory lane remembering trains toys and other childhood favorites. Anyone who’s ever known the satisfaction of seeing a completed model train assembled by his own hands knows how important the details are.

It’s the passion and desire for perfection that draws people to building and adding their own wood structures versus incorporating a pre-fabricated kit. There’s a sense of pride in knowing the tiniest details were carefully and painstakingly created by the owner. Whether you’re a seasoned train collector or are just discovering this satisfying pastime, keep reading for a few tips for successfully adding wood structures for your metal or wooden train.

Your first task is to define the project. In your mind, what does the finished project look like? Like the idea of tunnels for your train to travel through? Making your scenery interactive with the working train isn’t as difficult as you might think. You want it to blend seamlessly with the train and the tracks. Other ideas include greenery, mountains and of course, buildings.

Two options to consider include pre-fabricated kits that allow you to build your wooden structures with relative ease using the pre-cut pieces, or as many prefer, you can tackle the project “from scratch”. This method is a bit more time-consuming, but the pride of having finished a project such as this is indescribable.

If you are considering the “from scratch” option, here are a few basic tools and materials that will help you get started:
- Crafting knife – also referred to as a hobby knife
- Exacto knife and blades – we suggest varying angles and curves for your blades which can be found in any hobby or craft store
- Pencils with erasers
- Ruler or a traditional tee square
- Carpenter’s glue
- Wood strips
- Durable cardboard or press board to create templates

Remember, if you decide to build your wood structures, you’ll need to first create templates from which to cut the sheets of wood from. Using your template, carefully trace it onto your strip wood. Don’t forget windows and doors if they’re part of your plan. From there, you’ll be able to cut your wood verbatim to your template. One advantage of creating templates is the fact they’re re-useable. Using your wood or carpenter’s glue, secure the panels together to form your buildings. If you creating several buildings with the intent of using them as miniature homes, churches or other buildings, you’ll naturally want them to vary in height and width.

Once your glue has dried, tiny nails gently driven into the seams will serve as additional strength to the structures. Sandpaper smoothes out the rough edges and provides a better foundation for any paint or stains you intend to apply.

It should be noted many avid toy train collectors build their models with roof structures that can be removed to decorate the inner walls. It’s not uncommon to see houses with fireplaces drawn and chimneys extending from the wooden structures.  Again, this is your vision, your metal or wooden train and your project. Be as creative as you wish.

Your trains toys and wooden designs very well can become a part of your legacy as it’s passed down to children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Click here to download a free trains toys guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

Derailments of model trains toys can be a frustrating problem to figure out, especially if they happen in the same place, but not during every pass. In some cases, the derailment is a one-time event caused by dust or dirt on the track. Clean the area and replace the cars and engine back on the track, allowing it to run a few times. If the derailment doesn’t happen again, there is probably no need to trace the cause of the derailment.

In the case of a derailment that continues to occur, especially in the same place, you need to figure out the root cause of the problem. There are several things to consider, such as changed scenery or new or different cars or engines. Try to determine where the problem originates as it might not be at the site of derailment.

Consider the scenery in the area of the derailment. Look for very small pieces of scenery that may be stuck in the track of your model trains. Carefully inspect the track to ensure that all the nails are hammered down all the way and be sure that the nails have not worked their way loose. Be sure that small tools are not left on the tracks.

Change cars to see if one specific car is the cause of the derailment. Run the engine by itself to see if it derails. If you can figure out which car keeps derailing, inspect the car thoroughly. Look at the wheels and couplers as these can be the culprit. Couplers (magnetic or regular) that are mounted too low can cause derailments by rubbing against the tracks.

Be sure that the wheels are set correctly for the width of the track. Shimming or replacing wheels or couplers would be the solution to prevent this car from derailing in the future. A shim placed correctly may improve the height ratio, keeping the cars from derailing.

The wheels might be a cause of derailment. Check to be sure that the wheels are clean. If the wheels are dirty, clean the dirt with a small cloth. Do not overlook the dirt on the wheels as it can blend into the colors on the flange.

To ensure which car is causing the problem, check the car in front of and behind the car that derails. Some cars have longer coupler housings than others, so you may have to adjust the coupler to tuck it a bit further under the derailing car.

Check the cars for correct assembly. The body needs to be correctly centered on the frame and there can’t be anything rubbing against the wheels. The wheels should move freely by hand and the couplers should slide back and forth easily.

If the engine seems to be the derailing problem, inspect it carefully. Turn the engine upside down and examine the wheels, the truck housing, and the coupler. A bit of filing of the truck housing or shims on the wheels or coupler could fix the problem. You may have to try several things before the model trains run correctly again.

Another item to check is the curve of the tracks. If the curve is too tight, a derailment can occur. Generally, a six axle engine requires a 22” curve radius. If the train derails around a curve that is the correct radius, look several feet before the curve, checking for a small gap in the rails. Inspect for nails that may be loose or not pushed all the way down. Check the track for levelness. A small dip can cause derailments. Also check under the track to ensure there isn’t any debris or dirt that is causing the derailment. Transitioning from one model trains table to another needs to be smooth to prevent derailment. Likewise, transitioning to a grade in the track needs to be smooth. A slight variation between tables or the grade could be enough to cause the trains to jump the rail. You may need to shim the table legs to level the tables.

Dips and bumps can cause derailments. A common cause for dips and bumps is a loose or partially driven nail. Check carefully to be sure that a nail hasn’t come loose and worked its way under the track. Check to be sure the nails are through the wood and not the tracks rails.

A National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) track gage can be used to ensure that the rails are the correct space apart. Incorrect rail spacing has been known to cause derailment. In some cases, you may need to replace the track or bend the switch point clearances to allow the wheels to pass by without rubbing and derailing.

If you have tried several solutions but your trains still derail, trace it backwards from the point of derailment. Inspect all connections, rail joiners, rails, and scenery for failures, looseness, or dirt and debris. You may have to replace items to correct the derailment. Eventually, you will find the problem and once again be able to enjoy smooth performance from your trains toys.

Click here to download a free trains toys guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

What is flexible track? It is the most common form of track used with model trains railways today. Flexible track can be used with Lionel trains and just about every other brand because it is made by the majority of model trains manufacturers. Most flexible track pieces are three feet long and are indeed flexible, yet still fairly rigid. If you bend them one way to begin with, that is the shape that they will pretty much stay in from that point on.

The Super-Flex, however, from Atlas, works in a somewhat different way – you can bend it in to pretty much any shape you like, but it always spring back; this is due to the fact that the Super-Flex has both one floating rail and one fixed rail. Which style you prefer is entirely based on personal taste, though both have their advantages and disadvantages.

There are four advantages to having some form of flexible track for Lionel trains or any other brands of model trains to run on.

First, there are fewer joints in any given run of track. With just one three foot section of flexible track, you instantly cut out the need for four nine inch pieces of sectional track, thus giving you far fewer connections and a lot less potential for any problems on the track.

Second, you can curve flex track into any particular radius you want. It can also be shaped into a much easier kind of curve for your trains to run on than would otherwise be the case. The curves can also be shaped into the kind of curves you require to fit the area, rather than be stuck with a fixed shape that might not work for the space you have available.

Third, flexible track pieces can be cut to any length you require. This helps make your layout work because it can be adjusted to fit into whatever space is available.

Fourth, when trying to find the best layout for your track, it is helpful to mark the lines you want the track pieces to follow before nailing them down. With normal track this can be very challenging to get it right. However, with flexible track it is easy because you can use pieces of flex track as a template to draw around and mark the track locations. There are some tools available to buy that have been specifically designed for this purpose, but you may find they are not entirely necessary – a yardstick, pencil and a few extra track lengths can do the job just as well and cost less.

The advantages of flexible track are clear and unequivocal. All things considered, flexible track for your model trains to run on is unquestionably the way to go.

Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

Sectional track is great for people who want experiment with their model trains. Users can control the shape of their track layout by adding curves and intersections plus much, much more. The following includes a basic guide to sectional track for Lionel trains.

A good place to start with sectional track is to plan your layout. The simplest designs are circular or oval and more complex layouts may include complex crossings. Consider how much space you have available. Once you have a design planned out for your Lionel trains, take the time to invest in a range of track. You want large pieces as well as small pieces so that you can avoid holes. One of the biggest mistakes is not having enough of the right pieces on hand to build the desired layout.

There are many types of track to choose from. There are of course the basic straight and curved pieces of track as well as more complex options. For example, a turnout is a piece that helps a train enter in one direction and leave on two or three other tracks. Crossings are pieces where you have two pieces of track crossed in 90, 45, or even 30 degree angles.

Some forms of model trains sectional track include roadbeds. These pieces have interlocking tabs that will keep your train running without risk of derailment. With or without roadbed, it is recommended to nail the entire track layout to a piece of plywood. This will prevent carpet fuzz and debris from breaking up the track and interfering with the engine of the train.

To position your sectional track, line up the pieces so there isn’t a gap between them. Be sure the pieces are level: You don’t want one overlapping the other. Do not try and force pieces of track together, especially curved pieces. If you do this, you risk creating a gap or having an awkward section of track that can cause derailment. You want your curves to be tight so that you can run many model trains on your track, but you do not want the curves to be unnatural.

At first, it may take a while to plan and build sectional tracks, even for popular brands like Lionel trains. You may start with an idea only to realize you lack all of the necessary pieces or that its design is larger than you anticipated. Sectional tracks are like pieces of a big puzzle. Assembling the pieces will help with estimating the layout’s dimensions and the necessary supplies needed to for its construction.

Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

Cleaning your Lionel model trains railroad tracks is a task that should be conducted when the tracks are noticeably dirty or when the train seems to stick and pause during operation. There are several methods that work well and you may want to experiment to find the one that suits you the best. The more you use your model trains, the less often you will need to clean the tracks. Conversely, with seldom used tracks, you may find you need to perform heavier-duty cleaning almost every time you use your toy model trains.

For HO scale Lionel trains, you can purchase a track-cleaning car. You fill the car with light oil and the track-cleaning car is pulled around the track by the engine. Be careful that you don’t overfill the track cleaning car, for in doing so, oil may spill over onto the tracks or the scenery. Add oil sparingly to avoid the mess. The cars contain a small tank with protrusions that rub on the rails, cleaning the rails as the train travels the length of the track. The track-cleaning car can be used frequently. If you use a brass track, you may notice oxidation forming. If so, a more thorough cleaning of the track may be necessary.

For heavy-duty cleaning and eliminating oxidation from brass tracks, you will need a product such as Walther’s Bright Boy. It is a hand-held cleaner that looks like a small flat eraser, measuring about 2” x 1.5”. You rub the bar across the rails, allowing the grit to remove dirt, paint, and oil from your model tracks. If you have brass tracks for your toy model, this cleaner will remove most of the oxidation from the tracks. Using sandpaper or emery is not recommended as these products could leave pits in the tracks of your toy model trains.

Once you have cleaned the tracks with the bar, you will want to rub a soft cloth along the tracks to remove any residue left behind from the cleaner. Cleaning your tracks regularly will keep the toy trains running smoothly, giving you more time to enjoy playing and less time cleaning.

One more cleaning option is to use a liquid product that is made for track cleaning. LifeLike is one such product and can be purchased at your local hobby store. This product works well on Lionel trains and any other brands. Dampen a soft cloth with the liquid and rub the tracks. Keep changing places on the cloth as you go so you are not using the same spot repeatedly. Dry the train tracks as you go. As you are cleaning, inspect your track for signs of damage and repair or replace them as needed.

Once your model trains tracks are clean, you will need to perform regular maintenance to keep them that way. A product such as Pacer Technology’s Rail Zip is a good cleaner to maintain your track’s cleanliness. You squeeze a drop or two on the track in a few places and let your toy model trains run for several minutes. This allows the product to be spread fairly evenly around the track. Additionally, this product will keep the wheels clean. Rail Zip will also restore the electrical conductivity by preventing and reducing sparking.

Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

The first step in adding ground cover to a Lionel train set is choosing the season you wish to display. Winter ground cover will obviously be different from summer. Even fall and spring ground covers will be markedly different. Consider the look you wish to achieve for your Lionel train set.

Winter ground cover generally includes a facsimile of snow. Snow can be created by using virtually any white powder, such as baking soda, flour, dry plaster, or even white marble dust. Sprinkle your white powder around your train set, then mist it with a 1:1 mixture of white glue and water, with a drop or two of dish soap to allow the mixture to flow.

Spring or summer ground covers include grass facsimiles, which are created using ground foam and the same water/glue mixture described above. Ground foam is available from retail stores in various colors, but it can get quite expensive, particularly for detailed train sets.

Luckily, ground foam can be made using ordinary chair padding and acrylic or craft paint (available at any craft store), and an old blender. The chair padding should be cut into small cubes (about 1” around). The blender should be loosely filled with the cubes and turned onto a low speed. You may need to use an old dowel to push the cubes down into the blades. You may also need to add a small amount of water to “lubricate” the blades. When the foam has reached a sufficiently fine state, you can turn the blender onto a higher speed and add a small amount of paint to the mixture. Let the paint mix with the foam for several minutes. If there seems to be too much paint, add a few more foam cubes and allow those to be chopped and blended into the mixture. When you are satisfied with the mixture, spread it out on a sheet of cardboard or heavy paper and allow it to dry overnight.

Fall ground cover is a much duller color than spring ground cover. Browns can be mixed into the ground cover using sand or dirt, or by using the methods described above to create foam with a dull brown paint color.

Creating trees, bushes, and rocks will be an adventure limited only by your imagination. Many companies sell premade trees or tree kits for train sets, but often you can create your own trees using supplies that you already have. Trees can begin with twigs that you find in your own yard, with balsa wood, wire, twine, or any number of supplies. Bushes can be made from lichen, which can be purchased in small bags in craft stores. You can also use a sponge, cut to size and painted a realistic color.

For large rocks, use rubber molds with plaster. You can glue together several molds and fill in the gaps with small amounts of plaster to create cliffs, canyons, and other large rocks. Paint the plaster a brown-gray color with watercolors or acrylic paint. For small rocks, you can use an ordinary piece of gravel or any other small stone.

Finally, there are many ways to add water to your train set. One of the easiest ways is with epoxy resin- tiny cubes that are melted and poured into place, then dry clear. You can add a drop or two of acrylic paint to simulate muddy water if you like. However, don’t be afraid to experiment with other supplies to create a variety of effects for your train set! These ground cover techniques will work just as well for any brand just the same as they will for a Lionel train set.

Click here to download a free train set guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

There are many ways to lay track for trains toys, but most experts agree that, for anyone really serious about model trains, roadbed is a must. What is roadbed? In the real world, roadbed is the foundation on which train tracks are laid, and is made out of a variety of materials, including gravel and asphalt. This foundation helps keep the track even, and helps trains run smoothly.

So why install roadbed on a track intended for trains toys? There are a few reasons. Many model train enthusiasts like to be as authentic as possible, making roadbed a must. But installing roadbed on a model track has many practical applications, too: it makes running model trains quieter, keeps the laid plywood track smooth, and makes laying, repairing, and re-installing track easier.

If cosmetic issues are the only consideration – such as the inclusion of roadbed in a raised right-of-way – snap-in-place plastic roadbed is available. For the more practical applications considered by the serious trains toys collector, there are three major types of roadbed: cork, rubber, and Homasote.

Cork roadbed is the most common – it’s cheap, easy to install, and only semi-permanent, making it a good choice for beginners. If you do decide to go with cork roadbed, though, be aware that cork can dry out, split, and crack. A good tip to avoid this is to spend a little time painting cork roadbed with a latex-based paint. This acts as a sealant and keeps the cork from drying too much.

Rubber roadbed is another great choice if you’re looking for ease – most rubber roadbed is ready to go, meaning that roadbed installation is a simple, one-step process. But rubber roadbed is expensive to buy and permanent, making it more suited to intermediate trains toys collectors.

Homasote is the premium choice in ready-made roadbed installation (some collectors work with asphalt and gravel for the most realistic experience possible). It’s extremely durable and long-lasting, has an authentic appearance, and allows for some customization. It also provides the best sound insulation. But Homasote roadbed is best suited to advanced collectors. Why? First, despite its many advantages, Homasote is quite hard to install – if you’ve never used it before, or have no experience with roadbed, you may want to take a class or spend some time learning from another trains toy enthusiast. Second, it’s permanent, so you need to be sure of your model track plans before starting a Homasote roadbed.

Model trains can be a lifelong, rewarding hobby, especially if you take the time to plan well. With a little patience and guidance, installing roadbed can certainly enhance this experience.

Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

For those just starting out in the world of Lionel trains or any other brand, and who are looking to add wooden structures to them, the first instinct might be to go out and buy pre-packaged kits. After all, why to go all the trouble and time of building wooden train structures yourself when you can just go out and buy a kit that’s been designed with that very purpose in mind?

Even though it requires more work, there are several reasons for building your own wooden train structures.

First, many hobbyists get a great deal of pleasure from the task of building wooden train structures themselves. Hobbyists have even more fun with it by participating in achievement programs and contests. For anyone participating in contests or the
achievement program (or even for your Master Builders Structures Certificate) there are various guidelines that must be followed.

Second, hobbyists might not be able to get what they want from pre-packaged kits, leaving them with little choice but to build it themselves.

After making the decision to build custom wooden structures, it is time to get started. The first step is to gather the tools you will need. If you can put a craftsman kit together, this task should be simple. Most of the tools you will probably already have in your possession, items such as a scale ruler, single edge razor blades, Xacto knife (or similar), and a smallish square. Those are the
absolute basics, though in the interests of making life easy for yourself it would also be a good idea to go out and invest in such items as a miter box, saw, a steel plate (preferably with a square grid) small biggies filled with side weights (for the purposes of having adjustable weights), aluminum side rails with extra magnets, little clamps, a chopper, a sander and smaller items such as pins, pencils, scissors and glass plates.

After getting the tools, the next step is to draw up (to scale) a plan for the structure. Once you have that, the wood raw materials need to be gathered. Stripwood is a good choice. Commercially available siding is acceptable as a cover.

Prior to starting the assembly comes staining or treating the wood if desired. Variations in the wood can give structures a more realistic appearance. If you want these variations, it will need to be pre-stained prior to assembly.

The final step is assembling the structure. If you want to decorate and see the interior (which is a must if the building will be in the foreground), you must be sure to make the roof removable (cover trusses with boards, then shingle; rafting and cross bracing are recommended to give it both stability and strength). Nail-holes are absolutely essential for clapboard siding. This can be achieved with straight pins for smaller structures or larger pins requiring a pounce wheel. All subassemblies should be assembled prior to attempting to connect them to the building (if you are planning to paint the building, don’t put the subassemblies on until this is done). Use clear plastic or glass for windows.

Once the wooden train structures are completed, they are sure to take your train set to the next level. They will last a lifetime and will work great with Lionel trains or any other brand you select.

Click here to download a free Hobby Guidebook for model trains and wooden train sets. The guidebook is filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

Adding scenery to scale model trains is an expression of creativity and a great way to have fun too. Required materials are easy to access.

The goal for all terrain, tunnels, and landscaping is to achieve a realistic looking design which has the same scale and perspective as your model trains toys. Beyond that, the scenery should complement the look and the era of your train. Within these few parameters, you are only limited by your own imagination and ideas so have some fun.

The first step for trains toys scenery is to give some thought to what you want to achieve. This can be challenging to do on your own, so it is recommended to start looking at photos and layouts of other train hobbyists to help give you ideas. If you happen to live in an area where a train show is coming up, that would be ideal. However, a far easier solution is to go online and start surfing the web.

After you have formed a plan for your scenery, you need to translate the plan into materials and components required to implement that plan. The good news is many of the elements you will need are available to you at no cost because they utilize everyday resources found around the house and even in the yard. You can always supplement your scenery with store bought landscaping and structural components, or you can just buy the raw materials to build your own structures. To help you complete your materials list, the following provides you with some basic information about some of the most popular scenery elements, which include mountains, waterfalls, tunnels and landscaping.

Mountains – An inexpensive method of forming mountains and valleys is to form them with chicken wire, coat it with wet, plaster coated strips of gauze from bottom to top, overlapping. Once dry, it can be painted accordingly. Cliffs and rock walls can be made by wadding up newspaper and holding it down with masking tape; then the same wet strips of plaster covered gauze are put over it, from bottom to top, overlapping. Again, once dry the rocks or cliffs can be painted.

Waterfalls – These are made with sheets of stiff plastic that must be clear, although they can be colored in realistic amounts and colors. The plastic strips must be sealed by an acrylic, high-gloss gel. That same gel is used to coat the rocks along the sides, top, or bottom of the falls. The gloss must be blended together.

Tunnels – One of the most popular components for scenery is tunnels. Tunnels are just plain fun to have in your layout. The easiest way to build a tunnel portal is to cut it from a 1/2 inch thick sheet of beaded Styrofoam, the kind often used as packing material. Cut it in the shape of the opening, always keeping in mind the fact that your train must be able to pass through without touching anything but the rails. Washes are used to paint the Styrofoam, and dark stains can be added to give the appearance of soot. Styrofoam sheets can be used to build the body of the tunnel. Dark construction paper is glued to the inside that is visible.

Landscaping – Trees can be formed from pine cones that have been shucked, until only the core remains. The core is then dipped into thinned glue then dipped into a mixture of dark green turf and Styrofoam. Twigs from your backyard can also be used, if there are enough small branches to pass as a tree. Artificial turf can be used as grass, and extras such as people, signs, and telephone pole can be purchased from many suppliers.

Adding your own creative scenery to scale model trains is a fulfilling way to spend your time and it opens up a miniature world of creative expression and beauty. What began as a set of trains toys can develop into a true work of art.

Click here to download a free model trains toys guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.

Before adding scenery to your HO or O scale model trains toys, first determine the theme, location and layout.

Theme: Consider the theme or purpose for the setting you want to achieve. Is it a passenger train, a military base, or some other setting? The location should be considered, such as if you want the train to travel through towns to and from its destination. Think about the era; do you want your trains toys to be vintage or modern? Your setting and scenery should reflect the overall theme of your trains toys. Keeping the scenery consistent with the era and theme will keep your train realistic looking.

Location: Decide where you want to display your model trains toys. You might build it on a shelf or countertop for more permanent mounting. You could create an intricate design in which your train runs through the walls (near the ceiling) of your house, traveling from room to room. A different town or factory could be in each room. (Of course, the downside to this type of track is chasing down derailments, but it would be an interesting hobby.)

Layout: After you know the theme and location, plan the layout for the track, terrain, structures and finally, the scenery. The scenery must work within the constraints of the space available and it should compliment your scale model trains. To get some ideas on what you can do with scenery, there are books available from hobby shops. Another source which is faster and cheaper is a Google search for “train stations” or other related keyword phrases. When you find a real train station, then choose maps, then the Satellite tab and zoom in for a view of the scenery around a real station. You can model your station after that or use parts of it for your own design.

To get started with laying out the scenery, draw a rough sketch design on a piece of paper to get an idea of where you want to place different items. After you have a plan that you like, use a pencil to lightly draw directly on the surface of your layout, whether it is a plywood board or wherever the scenery will be positioned. Plan for height and depth based on the scale of your trains.

Use either construction foam (spray-on kind) or plaster to build hills. The spray foam insulation can be painted and cut to fit your style. Spray the foam on a working surface where you have room to work, away from your actual layout, shaping it to the bottom layer of the “hill.” Trim the edges until you are satisfied with its look. Add more layers, spraying and trimming each time, until your hill is the correct height. Be sure the layers fit together. Once you are satisfied with the hill’s height and shape, glue each layer together with a product like Liquid Nails. Hold the layers together with toothpicks until dry. Once dry, you can glue the hill to your board, making it part of your scenery. Let this sit aside while you continue adding scenery.

Begin adding ground cover materials around the track. Your hobby store should have several sizes and shades available; a mix of colors and sizes will provide realistic settings for a wide variety of trains toys. If you will be painting or trimming any scenery near the tracks, be sure to cover the tracks with masking tape.

Decide the placement of trees, grass, and other ground covers before moving to the next step. Be sure you have marked the board with the location of each item.

When you are ready to use ground cover, brush an earth-colored brown paint onto an area a few feet square. Your ground cover will stick to the paint as the paint dries. Add some broken branches or more ground cover to enhance your scenery. Continue this process around the board, being sure to protect the tracks as you work.

If you added water to your scenery, be sure to check that the water flows easily, but doesn’t gush and therefore cause damage to your track. The complexity of your water scene determines how much containment you will need for the water. Simply adding a green paint with shimmers gives the illusion of a small pond.

Once the ground cover is all in place, it’s time to add your trees, animals, or other items to your scene. Be sure that purchased items are the same scale as your scale model trains. Your towns can include traffic lights, building, cars, people, and pets. Browse your local hobby shop or an online store for items that fit your theme, whether it’s early steam engine or modern supersonic trains.

Once you’ve mastered these simple scenery-building basics, you can add intricate designs, holiday-themed elements, and trees and scenery that reflect the change of seasons. As your train set expands, you can add detailed cities, construction sites, and other scenic items as you choose. Have fun with your designs. Take pictures, keep them in a photo album so you can see your progress, and have a record of your changes.

Click here to download our free trains toys guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.