Train SetsWooden, Metal and Electric Model Train SetsModels of trains have been around since the first locomotives hit the tracks, though at first they were used as promotional sales tools by the railways. Wooden train sets first began showing up in children's playrooms in the Victorian era, usually as pull toys that featured several wooden cars on wheels and were very popular with young boys especially. Clockwork sets were also introduced around this time, but although they were able to move semi-independently the tracks were simple and unorganized with no real sense of a system. Around the turn of the century, metal train sets were introduced by a company called Belkin that more closely resembled the train sets we recognize today. The trains themselves were familiar, but now there were sectional track systems priced within a wide range that offered an infinite number of expansion possibilities for every budget and occasion. Train sets weren't targeted specifically at adults until the 1930's, when model trains were beginning to be made with more detail and better quality materials. Parents who were buying sets for their children found that although their son or daughter's interest in the hobby might decline, they were beginning to enjoy the toys more and more. Years later, trainsets continue to enthrall children and adults alike. From high quality wooden train sets to electric train sets that can run the length of an entire house, these collectibles are fun and educational as well. The wooden train sets of today are quite different from the children's playthings of the Victorian period. The cars, which link together magnetically, are intricately painted to resemble famous trains and railway lines, yet sturdy enough for vigorous play. Many collectors enjoy adding wooden train sets to their collection simply because they are so beautifully painted and vibrant. Wooden track sets are also available for these trains, so you can properly display your wooden set in its natural environment. Adults who are collectors of more expensive electric trains also find that painted wooden trainsets are an economical way to introduce a younger niece or grandchild to model train sets, as well as an excellent way to keep little fingers busy with their own, sturdier version of the cars while you are working on your own set. Model train sets come in several different scales, much like those of dollhouses. The most common sizes are O, S, HO and TT, with O scale being the largest. There are other sizes, such as the N and Z scales, which are also known as minigauge sets. You can figure out how much room you need to set up your model trains by first considering the size of the tracks. O scale train tracks are 1 1/4" wide, so they're going to take up quite a bit of room. If you want larger trains with more detail, O is your best bet. HO tracks are about 0.65 inch and therefore take up about half the space without compromising too much detail. N tracks are 3/8" and Z tracks are the smallest at 1/4" wide, making them the true miniature of the model train set world. The big question is how to pick out a train set that's right for you. First you need to figure out how extensive a setup you are going to want. Plain circular tracks are often sufficient for children, but adult collectors and enthusiasts generally want a more complex setup. Remember that you can always add to your collection later, but give yourself a realistic idea of how much space you're going to need. Next, you need to decide on a scale for your train sets. The most commonly used size is HO, which is compact enough to allow for expansion without losing detail on the cars or landscaping. If you think that HO is still too large, or maybe that you'd rather go with the larger O trains, it's a good idea to decide before you commit to a purchase. Once you have the basics down, it's time to buy your set. Make sure before you buy that you have a table or flat surface large enough for your train set that will keep it off the ground and out of the reach of children or pets. A stool or appropriately sized chair is necessary as well, so that you can sit down when you're working on your set. The basic supplies you need to start up your model train collection are a small amount of track, a starter engine and a couple of cars, and the necessary plugs and switches. To make this first purchase go a bit more smoothly, many companies offer starter kits for model trains that include all these things and more so you don't have to go searching high and low for them. This saves you time and money in the long run, since you don't have to resort to trial and error to find out which pieces are better. After all the hard work you've done setting up your set, you're going to want to make sure it stays in great condition. Some of the early Lionel train models from the 1900s still run perfectly today thanks to collectors who took good care of them. If your train set has any battery boxes, make sure you change the batteries or recharge them regularly. Don't wait until your train is no longer runningñchange batteries as soon as you notice them slowing down. Also, check other electronics and wiring regularly to avoid sparks or fire. Keeping your trains and electrical contacts clean and free of dust is essential to their upkeep, and a can of compressed air is perfect for blowing particles out of tiny spaces or hard to reach crevices. When cleaning electrical contacts or surfaces of the train, use soft, lint free cloths and specially formulated electrical contact cleaning solution. Just these few simple steps will keep your model trainset running for many wonderful years, making it a family heirloom that you can share with generations to come. |