Model Train Kit Solutions

Bachmann Model Trains – Does Bachmann Still Make Train Cars For Model Train?

Model Train Kit — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:09:08 +0000

Bachmann Model Trains – Does Bachmann Still Make Train Cars For Model Train?

Bachmann Model Trains are one of the largest selling brands of model trains in terms of volume, primarily because they are exceptional quality, yet the price is still extremely reasonable.

Backman Model Trains - By JonDave

Bachmann has it’s main office in Hong Kong and are primarily manufactured in China and was originally founded in1833 by Henry Carlisle who originally made combs and handles for walking canes.

After a merging with Henry Bachmann in 1899, they moved into plastics and were the first American company to manufacture sunglasses.

In June of 1968, Bachmann moved into production of N scale trains.

A fascinating history for Bachmann Model Trains. For more tips, information and product news, take a look at the links and videos below:

Images provided by:

www.flickr.com

This article has been written by Tim Bennett of Model Train Kit Solutions and shows just how Model Railroading has been dominated by Bachmann Model Trains.

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Model Train Benchwork – Why Can’t I Build My Model Train Kit Directly on The Bench?

Model Train Kit — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:14:24 +0000

Model Train Benchwork – Why Can’t I Build My Model Train Kit Directly on The Bench?

Track Planning For Realistic Operation

Model Train Benchwork – One of the first places to start when building a model train kit of any reasonable size is by putting together a bench of some kind.

It is good to have some kind of bench so that you don’t have to rebuild on the floor every time you want to see your model and putting of the floor can be dangerous due to carpet fur or even people standing on your precious trains.

So a bench is often the way forward and there are many different benches to choose from but often they start with a plywood base.

Why Can’t I Build My Model Train Kit Directly on The Bench?

I often see this question asked in forums about building model train benchwork and it is a reasonable question.

Most books and guides giving advice or help about constructing benches for trains will advise you to put a foam layer (or other soft material) down before laying the track on the plywood for the following reasons:

1) It is simply noisy.

If you lay track directly onto the wood, the noise of the train running over the track will be very high. Not only that, but the wood can actually amplify the noise to unpleasant levels. Certainly your family or friends will get tired of it even if you can put up with it.

2) Easy to lay wires and cables.

You will almost certainly have wires and cable running around to operate different parts of your model and having a foam base makes it very simple to hide these cables in the foam.

Otherwise, you would need to run tracks in the wood and this is time consuming and messy.

3) Life Like Ballast

In the real world, train tracks are often elevated above actual ground level with ballast so that the tracks can be kept level.

In the model world, using foam re-creates the realism of train track giving your model a look of authenticity.

Get Professional Track Planning Here

4) For Realistic Model Scenery

Using foam makes it easier to build in scenery rather than cutting the timber base.

I hope when planning your model train kit, these few bench tips help you and that you can have a much better looking model train.

It makes good sense to use some kind of foam or similar material before laying track and getting started on your model train benchwork

Photo thanks to Jason Under a Creative Commons License

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Model Trains For Sale – The Safe Way For You To Buy

Model Train Kit — Sun, 19 Dec 2010 06:31:37 +0000

Model Trains For Sale – The Safe Way For You To Buy

Model Trains For Sale

At some stage in your life (especially if you are a boy) you will more than likely want to be a train driver.

For most of us this means getting ourselves a model train set as the majority of us will never set foot on a real train other than as a passenger.

The best way to buy model trains is by visiting a shop. this way you can see what you are buying and ask all the questions you want.

But what if you want to buy a model train kit and you live in a place where there are not too many model train shops or very little choice (such as where I live in The Philippines)?

Model Trains For Sale On The internet

The internet has now become a recognized way of buying and ordering products.

All you need is a credit card and off you go spending all of your money, but there are a number of dangers when buying on the internet:

1) Revealing your personal information online
2) You do not know the reputation of the seller
3) Language Barriers
4) Returns and Problems

Revealing Your Personal Information Online

There are a number of horror stories online about identity theft, cradit card fraud and so on, so you may be very worried about doing business with companies or individuals online and rightly so.

In order to help stop this only buy with reputable companies such as amazon and use services such as Paypal to buy products. Paypal do not reveal your credit card details to the seller so you have more safety online

You Do Not Know The Reputation Of The Seller

There are many sellers online who are out to get you so beware.

They will promise you one thing and often deliver another and it is almost impossible to get refunds or the problem sorted out, especially when dealing with other countries where laws are very loose.

Language Barriers

Dealing with sellers that do not use English as their first language can lead to problems. They may not understand your English and you almost certainly will not understand theirs and this can often lead to misunderstandings and errors when buying your model trains.

Returns and Problems

If you have a problem with your trains or scenery, it can be almost impossible to get a return of money or product especially when you are dealing international. There will be lack of responsibility by some sellers, who do not care about you and will either ignore your problem or make you pay heavy shipping charges to get things sorted out.

What’s The Solution?

Buy from reputable suppliers such as Amazon.

When you deal with companies such as Amazon, you know that you will be looked after well. They have built a great reputation over the years and will not screw you when you buy model trains, books and scenery from them.

The downside is you have to wait a little while for your train to arrive, but the upside is that you will know you are in safe hands.

They have a great collection of trains of all sizes, shapes and scale as well as books, videos, scenery and a whole load of supporting trinkets for your model.

And best of all it is safe for you. Click here to get started buying your model trains and accessories.

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Stephenson’s Rocket Locomotive – Own A Piece Of History

Model Train Kit — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:58:45 +0000

Stephenson’s Rocket Locomotive – Own A Piece of History

Qwn A Piece Of History - Stephenson's Rocket

Get A Piece Of History Here

Stephenson’s Rocket was a wonderful little train that has captivated the hearts of many for so long.

Originally build in 1829 in Newcastle for the Rainhill Trials and it was one of the most advanced trains in the world at it’s time.

It was not, as many people thing the first steam train, but it was the first of it’s kind using a multi-tubular boiler which increased the capacity of steam being moved around making it much more efficient.

The Rocket was made even more famous, when at the opening ceremony of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway on 15th September 1830, William Huskisson was hit by the train and killed.

Huskisson whilst not the first person to die by train, was certainly one of the most famous.

Now you can get a chance to own this historic train.

This is an incredible quality locomotive, 1/24th scale and not the normal plastic model that you often see advertised. This is made in cast metal and wood and is very intricate in detail.

This incredible model can be yours to proudly display for only $250.00 plus postage of $30. Please allow 45 days for delivery anywhere in the world.

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Protected: Mini Course – Day 11

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Model Steam Trains

Model Train Kit — Mon, 17 May 2010 02:40:07 +0000

Model Steam Trains have a very unique feel and sound to them because unlike electric trains, they obviously have the steam element!

But there are basically two types of model steam trains; real steam trains that use coal or timber in their engines to boil water as a real steam locomotive does, known as “live steam” (and these tend to be larger outdoor models) and then there is the smaller train that is actually electrically driven as normal model trains, but use such elements as hexamine fuel tablets or methylated spirits (methylated spirits was used widely in the early Mamod models) that is heated and replicates steam.

This second style is used for indoor steam trains and smaller models.

Model steam trains have been around for a long time just like the real thing and equally same is the way they are classified or categorized. Not only does each train have a name, but they are given classification by the wheel configuration such as 2-6-6-6.

Having a model steam train is uniquely exciting. The noise and feel of a
steam train is completely enthralling to young and old a like, but when
buying your models there are 2 tips I would give you:

Tip 1: Only ever buy model steam trains from specialist stores.

The model steam train has so many moving parts and complicated intricacies that they require expert help if there is a problem. Make sure you have that support or your new dream could become and expensive waste of money. No point spending money just to throw them in a box because you do not know how to fix them.

Tip 2: Buy small at first.

When you first start out don’t spend too much money. You may decide after a few weeks that you want to invest your money in some other hobby or that you don’t want the model trains you have or that you want to have a different gauge or style.

What a waste of money if that happens. So buy small at first and once you are fully committed then you can start investing in bigger models.

Model steam train gauge varies from 2 1/2 inch to 15 inch for the ride able outdoor trains down to 45mm (gauge 1) for smaller indoor models.

The big problem when making small steam trains is that the laws of physics do not change and the same pressures apply to both small and large engines, so when boiling water in small models careful engineering must be demanded.

Hornby Railways got round this by producing electrically operated model “steam” trains and installing electrically heated boilers, so technically it is not really a true steam train, but close enough for us to still love it.

There are a number of Z scale steam trains (1:220) and are run using a butane flame in the engine’s tender.

for fun and excitement you can’t go wrong with a model steam train.

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Model Rail Magazine

Model Train Kit — Sun, 16 May 2010 12:06:46 +0000

Model Rail Magazine – Where To Get Them

A model rail magazine is an excellent resource to have especially if you are just starting of in the model rail kit world, but even seasoned rail veterans are well advised to enjoy model rail magazines.

First you become part of a community with literally hundreds of thousands of other train lovers and a collection of minds makes things much easier.

If you have a problem or a question, you can be rest assured that some other reader has not only experienced your area of concern, but has also found a solutions for it.

Magazines bring you together to share ideas, finds and secrets with each other and you will find that you will make friends that you can communicate and share experiences with.

Well worth getting a magazine!

Further more, magazines bring together industry experts who bring you the latest releases, the latest train information, new updates for equipment and solutions that they have gained from years of experience.

Another great reason for buying model train magazines is because they are supported by a lot of the actual manufactures of trains, rolling stock and accessories and you will find their adverts and contacts in the magazines to help you.

And honestly holding a magazine in your hands is so very different to reading on a computer. The real thing is so much better and it is kinda difficult to take your computer to the toilet or to bed to read it!

Below are some links to some model rail magazines including some free ones.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE MAGAZINES

Free Large Scale Online Magazines

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Model Train Transformer

Model Train Kit — Sun, 16 May 2010 04:03:13 +0000

The model train transformer is probably the most boring, unattractive and least talked about piece of equipment that your model train kit will ever have.

When your friends come round to see your masterpiece, they probably won’t say “Oh what a stunning model train transformer!”

But yet without it sitting there quietly in a far away hidden place on the set, nothing – absolutely nothing will happen!

The model train transformer is synonymous to your very own pumping heart and likewise it sends pulse of “life blood” to all of your trains, signals and gadgets keeping them moving around the track at any given time.

But for a piece of equipment that is so important most people never give it a thought, until it goes wrong, but if you give it love and care as an important member of your train family, you should get years of faithful service from it.

But what exactly does your model train transformer do?

Well your house is fitted with an alternating electrical current of electricity at is normally at 110 or 220 volts (220volts ac) and this rating of electricity is way too high for your small trains.

The model train transformer is plugged into the wall socket of your house and it takes the incoming power and converts it from alternating current to direct current and then also converts it from 220volts to a very low and safe 12 to 15 volts.

In fact the electrical current is running through the tracks and you can touch them without getting hurt.

You may also notice that there are small sparks sometimes when you place the train on the tracks. This is normal and do not worry.

The transformer controls and regulates the amount of power the track gets and on most transformers there is a know or control button that allows you to make the trains go faster or different directions.

When you turn the knob on the transformer, you increase the amount of electricity going to the tracks and the trains will go faster and if you turn the knob completely the other way, the transformer, feeds the electricity to the tracks in a different way and the train goes backwards.

There are no moving parts to a model train transformer and keeping it clean is sufficient normally. Make sure the cables do not get pulled or that the transformer is not hanging from it’s cables. If you see bare cables do not use it and either get it repaired or buy a new one.

Remember electricity is dangerous, so only let experts make any changes to your model train transformer.

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Electric Toy Train – Lego Land Style

Model Train Kit — Sun, 16 May 2010 01:41:26 +0000

Electric toy Train – Lego Land Style

When most people think of electric Toy Trains, they think of Hornby,Lionel or some other equally famous model train replicas and with good reason as they are simply fantastic trains.

But are you aware that Lego also produce electric toy trains and that they not only have trains, but also locomotives, track, rolling stock, train stations, signal houses and a whole load of other track side buildings and they all have the logo construction theme running through them.

This is a great way to introduce kids into the railroad passion without damaging your very expensive collection and also there is a big adult collectors area who are also passionate about this brand.

Lego electric toy trains even have their own scale; known as L-scale.

The first Lego trains were sold in 1966 (Lego set number 080) and were push along trains and had a nice bright blue rail.

It wasn’t until 1969 that they released a battery powered set (number 115) and one of the carriages carried the batteries.

In late 1969, the first truly Lego electric toy train came out (set number 720).

One of the really cool things about Lego electric toy trains was that they could all be upgrade from one to the other. So if you had bought a push along train it could be upgraded to battery operated one, which in turn could be upgraded to an electric one.

There were no major changes until 1980. Lego changed the tracks from blue to grey and the transformers now supported points, signals, crossing and other accessories and the trains now looked much more realistic.

1991 saw the introduction of the 9 volt system and metal rails being used. The 9 volt system was compatible with other products of theirs. however by 2007 the 9 volt system was completely discontinued.

This was due largely to the introduction of the new line of remote control products they brought out in 2006. all rail was now made from plastic and the trains ran on remote control using battery power.

The major advantage of this was that more than one train could be run at the same time and there were no longer any problems with track layouts, point systems and polarity of rails, although there were now problems with range for the remote and also the batteries had to be changed.

In the summer of 2009, Lego released the new “Emerald Night” (set number 10194) and was part of their Technic Line, which I personally think is ugly, but it was a line that was launched to try and help them get some of their investment money back as they had spent so much developing the trains in the last few years.

Lego electric toy trains were very popular and there is even an international Lego Train club Organization and they exhibit at such festivals as Brickfest.

L gauge trains are becoming increasingly popular among middle-age hobbyists who grew up with the building toy as a child, and are frustrated with traditional model trains such as are found in HO scale.

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HO Model Trains

Model Train Kit — Mon, 10 May 2010 17:09:18 +0000

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Model Train Transformer

Model Train Kit — Mon, 10 May 2010 16:53:21 +0000

Model Train Transformer>

The Model Train Transformer is without doubt one of the most important parts of the train set.

You’ve set up that old electric train set that has been sitting in your attic or basement only to discover the transformer doesn’t work. You can get a new one or have someone repair it for you, but both of these options can be costly. With a little bit of patience and skill you can save yourself some money and do it yourself.

Determine what needs to be repaired by plugging in your transformer. If you can hear a sound from the transformer, but the train does not move, the contacts on the track need to be replaced or cleaned.

Unplug the transformer if it appears to be dead and use a screwdriver to dismantle it, making sure you’re well grounded and any excess charge in the transformer has been dissipated.

Look for wires that are disconnected, loose, green-tinted or whitened (which indicates they’re oxidized).

Use a soldering gun to reattach any disconnected wires.

Use a soldering gun to detach any oxidized wires and remove any excess solder that may be on the wires.

Place the wire tips into an oxidation remover and wait several minutes. Remove the wires and wipe them with a soft towel. Allow the wires to dry completely, then use a soldering gun to replace them inside the unit.

Replace any frayed wires and solder them into place.

Check the AC/DC output of the transformer. If you get a low or no reading, replace the plug.

Tips & Warnings

Keep a small bag or tray near your work area so that you can place your loose parts in them to avoid losing them.Make sure you are grounded when working on a transformer. They are electrical devices and may still hold a charge.

Here’s how to troubleshoot and repair your model train transformer so you can have it up and running for the holidays.

Instructions Things You’ll Need:

* Wire strippers
* Tweezers
* Screwdrivers
* Soldering iron and solder
* Oxidation remover
* Spare wire

Step 1

Set up your model train set as you normally would, including the transformer to track hookups. Once that is completed, plug the transformer and slowly turn the dial.

Step 2

Listen closely to the transformer to determine if you hear any buzzing sounds emanating from it. If you hear buzzing from the transformer, but not the train, then the track’s contacts probably need to cleaned.

Step 3

If you do not hear anything coming from the transformer, or you cleaned all of the contacts and the train still doesn’t work, then we need to look at the transformer. Before you do anything, UNPLUG the transformer.

Step 4

Make sure you are properly grounded and use the screwdriver to carefully open the transformer case by removing the screws.

Step 5

Locate the capacitor inside the housing and use the screwdriver to discharge any stored voltage.

Step 6

Inspect all of the wiring within the unit, making sure to search for loose connections, frayed wires or oxidized connections. If you find any broken wires, clean them up and use the soldering iron to replace them to their proper terminals.

Step 7

If a wire is oxidized, use the soldering iron to remove the solder from the wire. Then, clean the oxidation from the wires by dipping them in the oxidation remover. Keep the wire in the solution until all of the oxidization is removed. Make sure it is completely dry before re soldering the wire back into place.

Step 8

Once everything has been inspected and repaired, put the transformer back together and reconnect it to the track. Plug it back in and give it another test. If all goes well, the train should begin to move. If it doesn’t, then the transformer may be unrepairable and should be replaced.

I hope these tips help you when it comes to servicing your Model Train Transformer.

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Model Train Scenery

Model Train Kit — Mon, 10 May 2010 16:27:52 +0000

Model Train Scenery

Model Train Scenery is an essential part of any model train kit and needs to be done properly for the best results.

You can buy your model train scenery form so many different places, from shops or from online, you can even make it yourself if you don’t have the budget, but personally I like to feel and see things personally before I buy so I do prefer shops.

It is always good to have a look around on the internet and in books and magazines to see not only how other people make their models, but also to see what is available and the different prices being charged.

Before you actually start to buy your model train scenery, I recommend that you try the following tips:

1) Plan before you start.

Get some paper and draw out your desired track. Put as much detail into it as possible. Make notes of all your buildings, tunnels, hills, roads and other parts of the scenery. Start out by drawing the track layout and then adding everything else to it. This does not have to be a masterpiece, just a rough drawing at first. You will no doubt make mistakes or change your mind, but this is OK as you get towards your final plan.

Make a note of how many buildings, trees, cars, people, lights and other accessories you think you will need.

2) Before you buy go to your hobby shop.

Go to your local hobby shop and see what is available compared to your plan. Some of the things you need may not be around just yet and may need to be ordered.

Also talk to the shop assistants. Show them your plan and ask them for tips and advice. The have done this before so they should be able to give you lots of advice about the way things go together.

Ask them what tools you will need as well.

3) Design your location

If you need to make a table, shelf or other place for your model train set, now would be the time to start planning this, getting the materials and constructing. Make sure you have all the permissions you need before you do this and you know how to construct safely.

4) Get your Tools Ready

You will need some old clothes to get dirty in. also things like knives, glue, small hammers and tacks, paint for the scenery and even newspapers and wallpaper glue if you are going to construct hills and mountains in paper mache. You will need measuring tapes as well. You may even want to use Styrofoam to make some of the scenery.

Get yourself some really small stones for the gravel. Wash it before you use it and put it in bags until such time that you will use it.

Having some rubber cloves around will also be handy for the messy parts and you may want to use a face mask if spraying paint or similar substances.

Consider using materials like painted wax paper for lakes and ponds.

5) Remember to keep everything in scale.

There is nothing more offensive to the eye than out of scale finishes. It stands out like a sore thumb. In order to get everything in scale without a headache, you may want to just buy everything.

6) Think about your back scene.

What will go behind your model train kit? Will it be a picture? will it be construction? A good back drop will really make a model great and it need not be expensive. Again it needs to be in scale to your model.

Remember that items at the back of the model may not need the same amount of detail as items close up to you.

7) Think about the emergencies.

There will be times when your trains stop running, derail or completely crash and you need to be able to get to them, so when you are constructing your set, make sure that you have access holes or secret doors so that you can reach every part of the track.

This can be blended in with your scenery.

Probably the most important part of any scenery is getting everything to scale.

The best way to do this if you are a beginner is to buy some books and see what others are doing and how they do it. also if you can have a look at other models to get ideas for yourself.

Scale includes your building, cars, and people. It would be strange to have buildings that were 2 inches high and people that were three inches high, so make sure that you get everything right and designed before hand.

You may want to consider putting Styrofoam down on your table top before you build anything. This way you can hide the wires and other not-to-be-seen items in the Styro. Also it allows you to cut into the styro should you want to put lakes or ponds for example.

This article can never give you all the tips and hints you need, so if you enjoyed reading this article, why not sign up now for my free 10 part email training course dedicated to helping you make the best model train kit and with wonderful Model Train Scenery.

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N Gauge Trains

Model Train Kit — Mon, 10 May 2010 15:57:09 +0000

N Gauge Trains

N gauge trains are becoming very popular now because they are smaller than HO scale trains giving you more spectacle for the same space.

Or N gauge trains allow you to put more track, more trains and more action into a smaller space which is ideal if you have a small house or live in really expensive areas such as Japan and still want a model.

Not all N gauge is the same though, however it generally refers to scale ranging from 1:148 to 1:160 which means that your model will be 148 times smaller than the real thing (or 160 times). That’s small!

However note that Z scale is smaller at 1:220 and T scale is a miniature 1:450. That’s incredibly small!

History of N Gauge Trains

Scale in trains began as early as about 1927, but it wasn’t really until 1962 that commercially produced N gauge trains came about. A German company called The Arnold Company started producing first.

N gauge trains are loved worldwide and is only bettered by Ho trains. Generally places where space is at a premium, such as Japan, N gauge is preferred.

Australia has only recently developed N gauge and most of the “old” n gauge in Australia was bought from other countries, especially England. It now produces it’s own N gauge.

N Gauge Train Standards

N scale locomotives are always powered by a DC power supply with a 12 volt supply. The speed of the trains has always depended on the amount of voltage being applied to the track and the direction of the train has been determined by what’s called polarity.

Recently though a newer technology has begun called DCC or Digital Command control which controls the direction and speed of the train using what is known as surface mount technology. Trains have also developed and now use a very small amount of current, normally only about 0.2 amps.

There are currently a few different systems used to couple trains together, but one that continues to be used for N gauge is the Rapido coupling system also made and developed by The Arnold Company.

N gauge track is 9mm track. N gauge used to be known as “OOO” or “treble-O”. Sizes of trains differ around the world so if you are buying internationally be aware that differences do exist.

Original N gauge trains were pushed along by hand. An example of this would be the trains produced in England by a company called Lone Star around 9161. They lost their novelty when electric push trains were released.

The largest N gauge model in the world is in the Das Diego Model Railroad Museum and is 1200sq ft in size. There are about 33 scale miles of track and the model has many well known buildings within it.

Here is a list of some N gauge manufactures:

# Arnold
# Athearn
# Atlas Model Railroad Co
# BLMA Models.
# CJM Models.
# Dapol
# Fleischmann
# Graham Farish
# Kato Japan
# Kato U.S.A.
# Kawai Hobby
# LifeLike
# Lemke/Hobbytrain
# Micro Ace
# Micro-Trains
# Minitrix
# Peco
# PrintableKits
# Roco
# Showcase Miniatures
# Tomix
# Wm. K. Walthers

N gauge runs virtually every time on 9 millimeter tracks – almost without exception.

N gauge scenery is also very easy to find both on-line and in the off-line world, so if you are looking for a compact model train, you may want to consider looking at N Gauge Trains.

This post from: Model Train Kit is where you can get loads of Model Train Kit News and updates.

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Model Train Kits

Model Train Kit — Mon, 10 May 2010 14:59:19 +0000

Model Train Kits

Model Train Kits are every little boy’s dream – and sometimes girls and more than often big boys too.

I remember when I was a kid there was something about a model train kit that I just couldn’t take my eyes off. The noise, the smell and the incredible reproduction of the models just held me hypnotically.

And 40 years later I still feel the same.

If you know what I am talking about then we are friends on the same wavelength. Model train kits are just something that are intrinsically part of us.

So I went to the shop and I bought my first model train kit (in fact I still have it) I hesitated buying it because of the cost, but finally I went home my package under my arm and the proud owner of my very first model train kit.

I opened the box, I laid the rails out in a beautiful oval, got out the tender and the carriages, put them on the track and switched it on and round and round it went in all of it’s miniature glory and it kept me amused for hours.

I made the odd deliberate “emergency” train crash and hundreds of imaginary “passengers” suffered a little boy’s terror, but in the end they all survived to live another day.

You remember that? I am sure you have crashed your trains too – just for fun!?

Was this how you first got started into the world of Model train kits? Or do you have a similar story?

If you are about to embark of your first model train kit, there are a number of elements that you need to think about before you start.

Passion

Is this a long term investment or a short term hobby?

Is this something you are doing as a short fad or are you planning to make this a life long love affair with trains? If it is just a hobby that you want for a while, it doesn’t need too much planning or investment. In fact I would advise you buy second hand or buy a small set only.

However if you plan to make this a long investment, then the plans you have for size, location and structure will all be different. If this is to be a long-term plan are you prepared to make this in small steps or will you just go out and get everything at once.

Remember if this is a major investment, you will want to consider the rest of the family as Mum won’t be impressed when you drill holes in the wall and have the latest locomotive going through her bedroom!

Your Reason Why

Why are you building your model train kit?

Is this your hobby or do you intend to sell it for profit? Are you making just for yourself or do you intend to construct it and sell it as a fully made project?

How you build and what you build depends on your reasons for starting.

Budget

How much money do you have to invest in your model?

Before you start buying, it is important to know exactly how much money you want to spend both short term and long term.

Short term you should know exactly how much you have to buy your initial stock and accessories. Do you have enough to buy the whole model in one go or do you have to do this bit by bit over time.

Do not go and sell Dad’s car just to buy your model train kit or put yourself into a position of suffering just to get what you need.

Find your budget and stick to it. Do not be tempted by sellers “special offers at just $15 more”. Stick to your budgets or save up more money.

Location and Size

The location is the key to all good businesses and where you will put your new train kit is also important for your success.

Can you use the loft or attic? Do you have a spare bedroom that you can use? Do you have a shed or outhouse that you can use? For larger models, is your garden big enough to house the outdoor train? Do I have to pack it away everyday or can I leave it out fully constructed?

How big should I make it? Do you intend to take it shows and does it need to be mobile? It is small enough to fit in your car?

Themed Model Train Kits

Most collectors have a certain theme and stick to that theme. Will you buy post-war lionel trains or will you buy Life-Like model trains? How about passenger trains or rolling stock? Will you focus on Canadian trains or South African trains? Steam or electric?

You may ask why does it matter?

There is nothing worse looking than a kit with all different styles. It looks messy and disorganized and the trains don’t go together well.

Also the theme dictates the scenery. No point building the Canadian mountains if the trains are all going to be from South Africa.

Will you have snow for a Christmas theme or will you construct a small village theme in the middle of summer?

There are many more things that you should think about before you buy your very first train, but these are subjects that I do not see discussed much and you may forget to think about them.

I hope what ever style you build you enjoy your new model and I hope that I can help you reach you happiness with your model train kits.

This post from: Model Train Kit is where you can get loads of Model Train Kit News and updates.

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