New to model trains

[Anonymous]

I am looking to start a train set layout and have a few questions. I am going to be using HO scale and I think the Bachmann EZ-Track (I've been told it's one of the better and easier tracks to use.) My main questions are whether freight cars from different manufactures will work (connect) with each other or do you need to buy all the same brand or only certain brands. Also which manufacture make the best locomotives for your dollar. I don't want to spend a ton of money, but I also do not want to buy junk. Are Bachmann engines good, I've also seen a lot of Life Like and Athearn engines at hobby shops, and will any type of engine work on any type of track as long as it's electric. Finally would it be better to buy a set to start out or just buy individual pieces, I've heard both suggested and am looking for some more input.

[Anonymous]

I am looking to start a train set layout and have a few questions. I am going to be using HO scale and I think the Bachmann EZ-Track (I've been told it's one of the better and easier tracks to use.) My main questions are whether freight cars from different manufactures will work (connect) with each other or do you need to buy all the same brand or only certain brands. Also which manufacture make the best locomotives for your dollar. I don't want to spend a ton of money, but I also do not want to buy junk. Are Bachmann engines good, I've also seen a lot of Life Like and Athearn engines at hobby shops, and will any type of engine work on any type of track as long as it's electric. Finally would it be better to buy a set to start out or just buy individual pieces, I've heard both suggested and am looking for some more input.

[Trainnut484]

Welcome to the hobby [:)]. I think beginning with a "starter kit" such as a train set is a good idea. Both Bachmann and Athearn manufacture such sets. Bachmann locomotives are ok. Athearn locomotives come with a more powerful motor and more details. Life-LIke's Proto series are also good locomotives. Most if not all freight cars, and locomotives, from the manufactures will work together if you use the same type of coupler. Kadee #5 is the normal coupler used, and their line of other couplers are great too. The horn-hook couplers that come with Bachmann and most kits are not good for long trains. An NMRA standards guage wil help on correct coupler height and wheel alignment to ensure problem free operation.

As for track, Atlas, Kato, and Bachmann offer good selections. Kato would be more on the pricey side, but well worth it. Your hobby store owner/manager can help you on your selection.

The main thing about this hobby is to have fun [:)] I hope this little smidge of information helps you out.

[Trainnut484]

Welcome to the hobby [:)]. I think beginning with a "starter kit" such as a train set is a good idea. Both Bachmann and Athearn manufacture such sets. Bachmann locomotives are ok. Athearn locomotives come with a more powerful motor and more details. Life-LIke's Proto series are also good locomotives. Most if not all freight cars, and locomotives, from the manufactures will work together if you use the same type of coupler. Kadee #5 is the normal coupler used, and their line of other couplers are great too. The horn-hook couplers that come with Bachmann and most kits are not good for long trains. An NMRA standards guage wil help on correct coupler height and wheel alignment to ensure problem free operation.

As for track, Atlas, Kato, and Bachmann offer good selections. Kato would be more on the pricey side, but well worth it. Your hobby store owner/manager can help you on your selection.

The main thing about this hobby is to have fun [:)] I hope this little smidge of information helps you out.

[Anonymous]

Welcome to the hobby!

I'm assuming you plan to go with HO scale....is there any other? :)

In general, as the other respondents have said, there are two basic types of couplers in the US...horn hooks (the older, more traditional style) and the newer, more relistic knuckle couplers (the most reliable and popular one being the Kadee #5 as mentioned). Most contemporary HO equipment can be outfitted with either type, and switching is pretty simple (you can get couplers at your local hobby shop).

I recommend also considering Walthers brand trains for starting out. Walthers offers an excellent value--good quality at a reasonable price. Most of their locomotives come ready-to-roll (unlike many locomotives which require you to apply hand rails, grab irons and other detail parts). Walther ready-to-roll rolling stock is also very good. Athearn ready-to-roll equipment is also very nice. Life-Like Proto 1000 stuff won't break your bank. Bachmann Silver Series is pretty decent, too. Lots of stuff to choose from!

Go to a train show in your area...you can get some great deals on great quality used equipment. Check out eBay, too, but learn the ropes because there is a lot of junk out there.

I agree with your choice of the Bachmann E-Z Track to start out.

Have a blast! Be careful, it's addicitve!

[Anonymous]

Welcome to the hobby!

I'm assuming you plan to go with HO scale....is there any other? :)

In general, as the other respondents have said, there are two basic types of couplers in the US...horn hooks (the older, more traditional style) and the newer, more relistic knuckle couplers (the most reliable and popular one being the Kadee #5 as mentioned). Most contemporary HO equipment can be outfitted with either type, and switching is pretty simple (you can get couplers at your local hobby shop).

I recommend also considering Walthers brand trains for starting out. Walthers offers an excellent value--good quality at a reasonable price. Most of their locomotives come ready-to-roll (unlike many locomotives which require you to apply hand rails, grab irons and other detail parts). Walther ready-to-roll rolling stock is also very good. Athearn ready-to-roll equipment is also very nice. Life-Like Proto 1000 stuff won't break your bank. Bachmann Silver Series is pretty decent, too. Lots of stuff to choose from!

Go to a train show in your area...you can get some great deals on great quality used equipment. Check out eBay, too, but learn the ropes because there is a lot of junk out there.

I agree with your choice of the Bachmann E-Z Track to start out.

Have a blast! Be careful, it's addicitve!

[cnw4001]

I too welcome you to the hobby.

One point to remember, you're doing this for fun and when it becomes a job, time to find another hobby.

Stated another way, you're going to get lots and lots of "do it this way" advice Take that with a grain of salt, do what makes you feel good and accept the advice as just that, advice, not marching orders.

[cnw4001]

I too welcome you to the hobby.

One point to remember, you're doing this for fun and when it becomes a job, time to find another hobby.

Stated another way, you're going to get lots and lots of "do it this way" advice Take that with a grain of salt, do what makes you feel good and accept the advice as just that, advice, not marching orders.