Milton's Tips
Milton says, "I need a tip! Do you
have a really spiffy idea that may of interest to other hobbyists?
Send me an E-Mail
explaining your suggestion, idea, etc. If we publish it on our
website or in our newsletter, we'll send you a
$5.00 gift certificate to spend in our store!
Not all tips will be printed -- only those that we
think are the best!"
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 Ready
To Run Train Sets
Ready-to-run (RTR) train sets come in all scales: N, HO,
ON-30, O/0-27, G and even Z! These ready-to-run sets are great for
any newcomer to the wonderful world of model railroading.
Trains Are Fun!
Train sets are fun, no matter what your age. Your first
train set will provide countless hours of enjoyment and may even spark
an interest in model railroading as a lifelong hobby.
A Typical Set
A typical train set includes a locomotive, three to five
freight or passenger cars, enough track to make a circle or an oval, a
transformer, or a power pack, (depending upon the train's scale) and a
set of wires that go between the power pack and the track. One of
the track pieces in HO, N, ON-30 and G sets is a "rerailer" section that
helps you put the cars and the locomotive onto the rails more easily.
A more elaborate train set might include a track switch
(called a turnout) and accessories such as telephone poles, a tunnel, a
bridge, small structures, and even trees.
Choosing the Right Set
The space available and the amount of money you wish to spend,
and just plain old "preference" determine which scale is best for you.
(Also see Choosing A Scale.)
If the train set is for an adult or the entire family, any
scale from Z through large can be considered. The smaller scales - Z, N,
and HO - are especially good for people living where space is at a
premium.
Roadbeds
Most train set manufacturers today feature track pieces built on
cast-plastic roadbed. This style of track is easy to assemble and
helps keep the track sections together. The built-in roadbed also
takes the place of having to lay cork under the track. Well-known
brands are Atlas True-Track, Bachmann E-Z Track, Life-Like Power-Loc,
MTH Real-Trax, and Lionel FastTrack. (Also see
Track & Scenery).
Power Pack and Transformers
Make sure the power pack or transformer that comes with your
train set is UL listed and follow the instructions that come with it
when connecting the track feeder wires to the terminals. (Also see
Transformers.)
An Investment in the Future
Buying an electric model train set should be considered an
investment in the future. A catalyst into the hobby of model
railroading that can teach valuable crafts such as carpentry and
artistry with a mix of electrical wiring and problem solving. The
life lessons learned by building a model railroad rival any other hobby.
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