Hi, I have had model trains all my life. From my grandfathers to my uncles and DAD. I want to build a garden railway in my side yard in the flower bed. I am having a problem finding out if there is a train set or equipment that is totally suited for outside use? I understand a larger guage train is ideal. I have been running Lionel 0-27 guage all my life. And have several antique Americam Flyers sets. I guess my question is can i run the same sets outdoors?
You can run them outdoors IF you can find weatherproof track and IF you don't leave any of the trains outdoors. The old Lionel and American Flyer track will rust away in no time, so you need to find track with ultraviolet resistant crossties and nickel silver or treated brass rail.
Sbjusjeepin
First off, a big Welcome to the forum.
Second, keep reading. There are several folks here that run variations on O scale. Yes rails and track are available for outdoor use.
Third: Like Charles said, you can run your “family heirlooms” outside, just do it in good weather, and do not leave them outside unattended. I have no idea as to the UV qualities of O scale buildings and structures, so you just might want to scratch build your own. Back to the Second comment, I am serious about “keep reading.” In some of the older threads here some of the folks talk about their experiences in you scale(s). Also get a current copy of GR (and maybe a few past issues) and have a good study of the advertisements and I’m sure you’ll find what you need.
Fourth: We love sharing pictures here, we love to share experiences and hints. Now get to the reading so that you can get outside and play in the dirt.
Tom Trigg
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