how to get started with HO track [newbie]

[Anonymous]

I have this old track set that i got when i was a kid .Ipulled it out of the closet and whip the dust off it. It is an old tyco set with a MS elect. Engine.All in good condition. I would like to set it up .HOW DO I START???

[Anonymous]

[#welcome]
You'll need to clean the track with a Bright Boy track cleaner or other brand track eraser cleaner. Do not use sand paper. Rubbing alcohol also works good. Just be sure it evaporates before running a train over it or you may burn up the track and house as well. There should be track connectors or joiners to connect the track together, if not buy some from your Local Hobby Shop (LHS). Set the track up on a solid surface like a table or sheet of plywood on two saw horses. It probably will have to be at least 38" wide (for 18" radius curves). Don't set it up on carpet because the fuzz will get into the locomotive running gear. Connect the power pack to the terminal track with two wires. Check the wheels of the locomotive for dirt. Use a Q-Tip and rubbing alcohol if the locomotive runs erratic. All the cars should roll freely. If not they may have fuzz rapped between the wheel and axle points. A must have item is an NMRA standards gauge to check wheel and track gauge and other standards.
Have fun.

P.S. click on highlighted words for links

[Anonymous]

It's a great hobby......consider purchasing an inexpensive starter set, they're great to build off of and much more manageable (not to mention realistic) than your tyco set.

After all, this is the 'world's greatest hobby'!

[Anonymous]

Hi, Dan! I'm twelve and I love the World's Greatest Hobby!!! I've you want to start building a layout, I wouldn't use the old Tyco set. I would keep it, but compared to the locomotives, etc. you can buy today, the Tyco set is very unrealistic. A tip of advice is READ, READ, READ! Buy many books. They will be your best resource. If you go to your local hobby shop, browse around. If you are thinking about buying a train set, I would advise against it. Many of the train sets are poorly made and derail a lot. I would browse around and buy seperate locomotives and rolling stock(train cars). You should also buy nickel-silver rail. Your hobby dealer can really help you when your looking! I hope I help you! If you have any more questions at all, post them, and I will try to answer them!!! I like to help beginning modelers!!!!!!!!!!!!!![:D][:D][:D]

[Anonymous]

Just wanted to say thanks for the replys I got from U-all. I will start at the begining, go a little at a time. Thanks

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by pennsyperson
. A tip of advice is READ, READ, READ! Buy many books. They will be your best resource. ]

a book i would devinitly recemend is model trains step by step
i bought it at barnes and noble and it was a modeelrailroader spetial issue. i buaght it for about 10 dallors and it came with a free dvd and the dvd gave me a bit of confidece to use intseat of using green paint (dosn't look to great. tryed it)using foam turf.[

[Anonymous]

Dan, here's some more links for info from Model Railroader articles.
Sectional track
Cleaning track
Cleaning wheels
Banish derailments

[cwclark]

here is my website photo album with pictures and explanations on laying flextrack...click the right arrow button and it will take you to each step in the process...hope this helps..chuck

http://community.webshots.com/photo/137793353/200142080vaBTvT

[Anonymous]

Yes Great info Gary on the articles thanks . Chuck great site thanks. I have decided to start with new. I will keep old track and loco however. I've ordered a loco from Bachman it comes with a 16 piece silver nickle track with power pack. Everybody thank you for your sites and info.