I recently inherited my grandfathers train set. It is not complete, has 3 engines and about 20 cars and various other things. I havent seen this running since I was about 8 (now 45) and would like to see if anyone can tell me what I need to get up and running? Obviously i need to build a track but what do I need to make it run? Thanks, James
It would probably be best if you could post a picture or two of what you have. We may be able to identify exactly what you have, and therefore what you need, to get them running again.
If it's older HO scale (1/87th), you will need a direct current (DC) "powerpack" that will act as your throttle. Model Rectifier Corp. (MRC) is the usual supplier of these. To connect it to your track, you will have to use a terminal-type piece of track (one with electrical connections built in) or solder small wires to the rails.
To simply test your locos, a 9-volt battery will work. Back in the day, it may be that only half the loco wheels pick up electrical power. In that case, a small bit of wire can be used to connect one battery lead to the opposite wheels at the other end of the loco. This should make the wheels go around when the loco is upsidedown. Your locos made need lubrication for axles, gears, and motor bearings if they've been sitting a long time.
Be advised that dirty track and dirty wheels will inhibit operation. Cleaning both will help a lot, especially if they've not been used in decades. For track, a small abrasive block called a "BrightBoy" usually does the trick. For wheels, a q-tip soaked in alcohol will usually work.
James,
welcome to a great hobby!
It is quite difficult to tell you what you need to get the trains going you inherited, without knowing the scale and the make of it.
Aside from engines and cars, you need track, matching to the scale and make of your trains, and a power pack, which supplies and controls the power routed through the track to your engine.
The National Model Railroaders Association (NMRA) has compiled a beginner´s guide, which I receommend to read for a start - click here: NMRA Beginner´s Guide
Hi chiefvolfan:
Welcome to the forums and to the hobby!!
There is another current thread which discusses how to get older locomotives running:
http://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/88/t/260065.aspx
The two biggest obstacles to getting the locomotives to run are lubrication and electrical conductivity. There are some good suggestions in the thread above.
If the older trains frustrate you don't give up. There is lots of decent equipment available on eBay. There is also lots of information on how to get into model railroading on this website. Go to the black bar on the top of this page and click on 'Get Started'.
Have fun with it!
Cheers!
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
Thank you all forthe suggestions. I have an HO (AHN) set with a few pieces of "switch track" I have no power and basically no track. I have been away so will look at cleaning wheels and such and checking the engines. Will take a picture tonight.
James
MRC throttles are inexpensively found on Ebay.
The trains of your grandfather may have great sentimental value but he may not have had a theme, so to speak. Maybe he bought a couple trains sets here and there.
As you develop your own theme and idea of the era and location that you want to model, his rolling stock may not be suitable nor detailed enough to suit your aspirations. There is nothing wrong with buying new or used at a show, locos and stock that you want.
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
What BigDaddy said, It's your railroad and you decide what time period to model and what the trains should look like. Remember you're in charge.
And it's ok to model more than one road.
Chiefvolfan
That is a very open ended question with LOTs of possible answers. It would be helpful if you gave more details such as :
Scale - O, HO, N...?
Manufacture ?
What parts do you have ?
What is the condition and how old ?
Welcome to the Hobby. Please join us in Jeffries Trackside diner where we talk on and off topic Come on in and I will by you a cup of Joe and Flo will serve it up hot and ready !
YGW
In addition to the above good suggestions the menu bar at the top of the page lists "How To".
Click on this and you will learn a lot also.
Happy Railroading
Bob
Don't Ever Give Up