Model Trains HobbiesLocomotives and rolling stock <p>

1. What should I look for in buying an engine? Are more expensive engines better? Modelers should consider these elements: realism, running capabilities, and level of detail. Beyond that, you'd use the same considerations as deciding whether to buy a $1,000, a $50, or a $5 watch. Obviously, there should be more inherent quality and value in an expensive locomotive, but the mid-priced version is often an attractive and well-equipped alternative. It's the inexplicably cheap one that warrants caution<p>.

Manufacturers do make models of varying qualities. Atlas, Kato, and Life-Like (Proto 2000) excel in making fine plastic diesel locomotives with a high level of detail and excellent running characteristics. Expect to pay $75 or more for those models. Athearn, Bachmann (Spectrum), Con-Cor, and Walthers cover the middle ground with engines priced from $30 to $70. Steam locomotives, with their array of moving valve gear and rods, cost more to produce than the equivalent-quality diesel.<p>

2. Should I oil my trains? Locomotives, yes. Freight and passenger cars, probably not. In model equipment, oil's primary purpose is to reduce wear and tear on moving parts, particularly those subjected to intense friction. Locomotives will eventually break without proper lubrication applied to motor bearings and gears due to the constant stress they are under to transmit power. (It's also important to use the right lubricants on those parts for maximum performance.)<p>

Freight and passenger cars have friction points, but under far less stress. Today's models reduce friction by using acetal plastic sideframes and needlepoint axles. Oiling is unnecessary; once the oil becomes dirty and breaks down, it will actually increase friction.<p>

3. What is a talgo truck? It's a freight or passenger car truck with the coupler mounted on the truck frame instead of on the carbody itself. Truck-mounted couplers are common on train set rolling stock. Advanced modelers often modify or replace talgo trucks in favor of using body-mounted couplers for realism and reliability.<p>

4. Should I replace my horn-hook couplers with knuckle couplers? Modelers replace their horn-hook (HO) or Rapido-style (N) couplers for two reasons: realistic appearance and operation. Magnetic knuckle couplers are made by Accurail, Bachmann, InterMountain, Kadee, McHenry, and Micro-Trains.<p>

Scenery <p>

1. What is Hydrocal? A trademark product of U. S. Gypsum (USG Corp.), Hydrocal plaster's biggest advantage is its strength. Paper towels dipped in a soupy mix of Hydrocal and applied to a structure of balled paper or interwoven cardboard strips make a remarkably strong scenery shell. Hydrocal also takes detail very well when cast in rubber rock molds. Its drawback is that it is more difficult to carve and detail, unlike softer molding plaster that modelers usually prefer as the top coat on plaster scenery.<p>

2. What is ground foam? It's just what it sounds like: ground up pieces of foam dyed to represent grass, weeds, soil, shrubbery, and tree foliage. Woodland Scenics and AMSI are leaders in the field, but other manufacturers offer similar products. The material can be applied with diluted matte medium or white glue; it can also be applied directly to wet paint.<p>Model Trains & Hobbies