In Cleaning out of my childhood home I ran across two old train sets Lionel and Bachman HO Guage. I am real Interested in starting a layout with one or both of these sets. The Sets are Approx. 45-48 Years old. The HO Set Probably a bit Newer. Just looking for general information on getting started in the right way.Any help or information on this would be greatly appreciated.
Hi, NewHobby [:)] -
I’d say it depends on what kind of shape the stuff you have is in, for one. If your existing stuff (with some cleaning up of the wheels, pickup brushes, etc.) are in fairly good running shape, you could start with what you have, and add newer or better stuff to it as finances are there for it. Another factor would be; what are your own objectives as far as a layout design/space available, etc., and do you have kids at home that would possibly be involved, or is this pretty much your model railroad? Wasn’t sure from what you wrote - is the Lionel stuff in HO or O scale?
How much space would you currently (or in the future) have available for a layout, also? If you’re cramped on space, you could go with a shelf-type or switching layout, or if you have a spare room (or can get use of half a garage), you’d have more options on the layout. Do you have to take the layout down and use ‘its’ space for other things (like eating on the dining room table, etc. [;)])? Might help you to define your parameters and ideas for the type of model railroading you want or have space, $$, etc. to devote to the hobby (currently or in the near future).
My [2c] for now.
Blessings,
Jim in Cape Girardeau
[#welcome]
You first have to decide what you want to do in the hobby. There’s toy trains, model building, realistic operating, collecting, etc. There’s also scale, the HO you have, but also N, S, O, G, and Z.
Here’s a beginner article http://www.trains.com/mrr/default.aspx?c=a&id=605 on scale modeling.
If you can, go to a train show or two where they have operating layouts on display - these usually include N, HO, and O. With luck they will also have Z, S, and G also. This will give you an idea of what you can do in this hobby.
Many of us started with a 4x8 sheet of plywood mounted on a grid frame. Here’s a page with links to four 4x8 plans with benchwork diagrams http://www.trains.com/mrr/default.aspx?c=a&id=603.
Good luck
Paul
[#welcome] Welcome to the Forums, and to the world’s most interesting hobby (that only involves inanimate objects.)
First, don’t let yourself be intimidated by the experts who seem to know all facets of everything about this hobby. They all started out as raw newcomers, and had to learn everything they now know.
For one source of startup inspiration, look for a Spacemouse post and read his Beginner’s Guide (clickable link.) Chip has only been in the hobby for a few years, but has climbed rather quickly up the learning curve.
On a more practical note - I am currently operating some rather old (not quite, but close to) HO engines and rolling stock. My suggestion is to get inside the shell, clean and lubricate (automatic transmission fluid - honest) the machinery, then test run. If the wheels turn, you’re good to go. The biggest trick for successfully returning elderly items to service is to clean the mechanicals and electricals carefully but thoroughly. Don’t overdo the lubrication - a tiny touch is usually plenty. A careful cleaning with metal polish will do wonders for even 40 year old track.
Make haste slowly. As the old saying goes, you can take the time to do things right, or you can waste time doing them over. If in doubt, use the search function of the forums to look for an answer. If you don’t find it, post your question. Our friendly, knowledgeable membership will be happy to help.
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - in 1:80 scale, aka HOj)
3T:
Automatic transmission fluid, I think you mean, not brake fluid. ATF is (correction requested) 10 weight lubricating oil with various additives, and red coloring to make it purty. I have used it as a general light oil, though not on models. Perhaps I will experiment.
Those old Bachmanns and Lionels (which I think may be a similar drive) might be kind of nice. The first Bachmann drive was like an upsized early N chassis, a central motor driving all wheels through nonswiveling worms. No harm in cleaning them and trying to operate.
Thanks for catching that one, Autobus. I should have looked at the can!
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - with ATF)