※Trains
Model train scales and track width
| Gauge | Scale | Track Width |
|---|---|---|
| G | 1:25 | 1.75" |
| O | 1:48 | 1.25" |
| S | 1:64 | 0.875" |
| HO | 1:78 | 0.625" |
| N | 1:160 | 0.375" |
| Z | 1:220 | 0.25" |
Tips for maintaining/repairing model trains
Conversion
- Convert a dummy locomotive into a powered locomotive
- Convert a Bachmann dummy into powered locomotive
Parts
- Screw Gauges
- Most common crews in HO trains: #0–80 × 3/8" machine screws (1/16" dia.) and #2–56 × 1/2" (3/32" dia.)
Couplers - Kadee #5 (gearbox style) and #148 (whisker style) medium centerset are good starting place - Coupler machine screws (1/16" dia.): 0–80 × 3/8"
Repairing model train motors
- Websites: HO Seeker and Tyco Forums
- Use Gardner Bender Ox-Gard OX-100 on all electrical contacts
- Use a Dremmel tool with wire polishing bit to polish contacts
- Use Mag1 high temp disk break wheel bearing grease of the gears, do not use oil.
- Apply one drop of oil to the end of shafts where thrust washers are. No more!!!
- Can use baking soda with super glue to repair cracked gears because there baking soda causes the got to cure instantly. Fill a crack with solid baking soda. Add super glue on top. The baking soda makes cyanoacylate glues harden instantly.
Wishlist:
- Corn field
- balsa wood
- grey brick wall
- Grey roof tile like our garage
- wood siding
- Spanish roof tiles
- Mixed balsa wood
- hardwood floors
- base board
- Train station
- Pine trees
Building construction
Scenery construction
- Table is 6' x 4'
- 1.5 pound per sq. ft. foam is recommended
- Papier-mâché clay Recipe 1 and Recipe 2 (video of recipe 2)
Miscellaneous
Information on the real trains behind our models
Tyco Union Pacific "Omaha GP-20" diesel engine 5628 (model from 1970s)
Lionel Republic Steel 9142 gondola car, year 1971
Train history facts
- Oldest steam train:
- Biggest steam train ever:
- Fastest steam train ever:
- Biggest Diesel train ever:
- Fastest Diesel train ever: