Hobbies Trains

Here’s a peek into last year’s iHobby Expo in Chicago with Actor Michael Gross, who’s grandfather and great-grandfather were railroaders. He worked his way through college as a diesel locomotive fireman on the old Chicago Northwestern. Of course, many of us remember Michael Gross from his starring role on “Family Ties,” and more recently his eccentric character on the daytime drama, “The Young and the Restless.”

For those in the Chicago area, be sure to mark your calendar for the 2009 iHobby Expo on October 24-25. It will again be held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. This year is the iHobby Expo’s 25th Anniversary, and it’s sure to be great fun for the whole family.

Each hobby has its own unique tool needs. Today I’ll share with you several tools to make your hobby projects more enjoyable.

A Track Cutter for Model Railroaders

First is one that is a must have for those who find building model railroad layouts a great and relaxing pastime. As with a real railroad, the track which the trains run on is a critically important component. So the model railroader needs a track cutter that is effortless to use and delivers a precise cut each and every time. Xuron’s 2175M Track Cutter does both.

A Bead Stringer’s Tool Kit

If your hobby includes stringing beads together, Xuron also has a tool kit suitable for you. The TK2400 Bead Stringer’s Tool Kit features three tools that are essential for stringing jewelry beads on to flexible stranded bead wire, cord, monofilament and thread. Packaged in a handy canvas pouch with pockets, these ergonomic tools have soft Xuro-Rubber™ hand grips and a Light-Touch™ return spring for cutting, holding, forming and looping tasks.

The tools in Xuron’s TK2400 Bead Stringer’s Tool Kit include the Model 410 Micro-Shear® Flush Cutter for soft wire up to 18 AWG, flexible stranded bead wire, craft wire, cord & monofilament; the Model 450 Tweezernose™ Pliers for bending and forming and holding jump rings, split rings and small beads; and Model 488 Round Nose Pliers for looping and forming wire.

Tools for Cutting Carbon Fiber

If you’re into building RC projects, you’re probably aware that some of the composite materials being used today are lighter and stronger than previously used materials, and that this creates some some challenges when cutting and shaping them. Carbon fiber, for example, is lightweight and very strong, yet is difficult to cut with conventional tools. Not anymore; Xuron answers the challenge with tools for cutting carbon fiber materials.

Their model 9180 Scissor is for cutting strip between .019” and .034” thick and the Model 2193 Shear will cut rod from .20”-.80” diameter and .060” ID tube. These tools create a square cut on strip and rod, but it is recommended users insert a properly sized wire inside the tube before cutting to prevent the thin walls from crushing.

Featuring one serrated edge, the Xuron Model 9180 grips the carbon material for faster and easier cutting. Xuron’s Model 2193 is a full by-pass shear designed specifically for cutting hard materials. Standard features for both tools include ergonomic handles, cushioned Xuro-Rubber™ grips, return springs and precision ground high carbon steel blades.

The right tool for the job makes the project more enjoyable. Visit your local hobby shop for these and other specialized hobby tools from Xuron today.

HO Scale Trains refers to the size and scale of model train that is the most popular in most of the world. The scale used is 3.5 mm to one foot or one to eighty-seven. The name comes from the fact that the scale is half that of 0 scale which in turn comes from the day when there were 0, 1, 2, and 3 scale model trains. HO scale trains have all but replaced these older scales.

HO scale trains run on a small scale railroad track powered by electricity. On most sets, the power is controlled through the use of a transformer, so that applying more or less electricity controls the speed of the train, and reversing the polarity of the current changes directions. On larger, more complicated HO scale train setups, there may be multiple power supplies which control different blocks of the track.

People can control the layout and complexity of the track used by HO scale trains by putting together the pieces of tracks, which usually snap together, in straight and curved pieces, along with intersections and switched forks. These tracks can create a simple oval table top layout, to massive, complicated designs which can fill a room. It is also traditional to decorate the scenery around the track with scale buildings, scenery, and other model pieces to create the look of a real railroad track.

HO scale trains are a great hobby for kids and adults alike, and can spark an interest that lasts a lifetime.

Related Posts: Getting Started in Model Railroading

Photo Credit: James_Buck on flickr

On street trackage for model train layouts, sharp curves, embedded rail and turnouts, not to mention vehicular traffic, are all construction, maintenance and/or operational challenges. That’s why many lines decided to build track on a center median or side-of-the-road easement.

While electric interurban lines built many of these, mainline railroads built plenty too, or took over track from interurbans. Modeling them is as easy as building your street parallel and very close to the track. Ten scale feet between the road’s edge and the track centerline is typical. If your street is in a village or city, add a curb along the edge of your road surface using a scale 6 x 6″ styrene strip painted a concrete color. If the track is between two lanes of traffic, make sure to add appropriate grade crossings and signs where streets cross. Rural lines seldom have curbs. Instead they have a strip of tall grass or a small weedy drainage ditch—easily modeled using appropriate ground cover.

This tip provided courtesy of Walthers

Picture by Radar

The Holiday Express Train in Richardson, Texas isn’t your everyday model train. No, Joel Occhuizzo didn’t know a thing about model trains until about eight years ago. “It would be a lot less expensive to build now,” he laughs, “now that I know what I’m doing!” The entire experience has been trial and error.

“The first engine I wanted built, the man asked me how fast I wanted it to go. I told him, not knowing any better and wanting it to be safe for children to ride, 2 miles per hour. It took 4 minutes to get around my backyard one time!” The track isn’t large, but it isn’t small, either. The track consists of thirty-two 4-foot wooden sections that lay on 2 x 4’s in a circular shape around a lighted, theme-park style center. A 3x ¼ inch steel monorail runs through the center and keeps the train on the track.

The engine now runs 9 mph, and takes about 30 seconds to round the track. He’s been through 6 engines in 8 years. This year, he knew exactly what he needed. He rented a truck, loaded his entire assembly in the back, and drove to Phoenix to have his new motor installed. I asked him how long he expected this engine to last him. “About 2 years,” he smiled. He’s proud of the electric car motor he uses to propel his train. Last year, the man he has been purchasing his batteries from realized what he was up to and told him he’d never have to buy them again. From now on, he was giving them to him.

It’s a Labor of Love

The Occhuizzo’s love of Christmas is contagious. Everyone who drives by, everyone who stops in, and everyone who stays to enjoy the ride is touched with the detail that has defined their backyard.

“Last year, he figured out that if they sing Christmas carols as the train goes round, the kids keep their hands in the train,” smiles BeBe, his wife. “When I’m not out there, I’m right inside this window, watching, just to make sure they are all safe. You should hear them all singing! It’s really beautiful.”

“The smiles on their faces, the way the eyes light up, there’s nothing like it. You have to see it,” says Joel. He’s got big plans. It’s not the way he wants it just yet, but it just goes to show what can happen when inspiration calls, and you listen with your heart.

Find out more at his website, http://www.holidayexpressridingtrain.com

On a corner lot in suburban Richardson, Texas, BeBe Occhiuzzo has been watching neighborhood children enjoy Christmas for the past seven years. Eight years ago, her husband Joel had created a holiday train that ran on a track in their backyard for their grandchildren to watch, wonder and enjoy. After the first year, he knew what he had to do. With a lot of perseverance and elbow grease, his average-sized backyard has become a magical play land for children all over the city.

What started out as a passionate ambition for a grandfather to see his grandchildren’s eyes light up, has become an opportunity for the Occhiuzzo’s to spread holiday joy to the entire neighborhood, and then some. His first train was just for show. By the time the next holiday season rolled around, it had become a joy ride for his family.

Train Rides: One Thing Leads To Another

Little did she know it, but that second year was about to change their lives forever. He had developed an intensity and drive to make that train dependable and rider friendly for years to come. He wasn’t a model train enthusiast. He didn’t know a thing about them. He simply knew that when those kids saw that train, running in a circle through lights and painted wooden cartoon characters, they became awed and amazed, and he just couldn’t stop.

It’s not a scale train. It was built from wood and welded metal. Each side panel on the cars was cut from wood, and painted with loving detail. The train’s engine car was crafted by metal workers, and houses the same electric car motor that powers the fleet of cars that work for the city of Dallas.

Two years ago, after several modifications, he began allowing adults to ride with the children. It takes 30 seconds to round the track one time, and he lets them ride about 10-12 minutes. The train starts at 6pm and runs till 10pm from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. It’s in the local paper now, and the Dallas Morning News.

Volunteers Needed

With so many people now not only enjoying the view from the nearby trail, but also allowed to ride, they’ve seen 800 guests in a single night. Cars round the corner and line up down the street to watch, ride, and sing together under the Christmas lights.

Capable of holding 22 children, 6 of the 8 cars have seats, while the coal car houses the batteries for the engine. The engine is a 13.9 horsepower DC motor with 42 lbs of torque, and he’s figured out how to give it a soft start and stop for the comfort of the passengers. All this equipment is getting difficult for Joel to put up and take down himself.

The set up begins every September 15, and is completed by Thanksgiving. He had to build storage space on to the house to store not only the train, but also the track and additional decorations. A local church has offered to help him break it down and store it this year, but it is still no small task. It won’t be done until February. For more information, you can visit his website www.holidayexpressridingtrain.com, and check back here for more information.

Ten dollars doesn’t buy you much these days, but it will get you into one of the most rewarding exhibitions you will ever see. Trainfest 2008 turned out avid model railroaders from every age group, and every size model train layout. The blogging is still going on! If you’ve never heard of Trainfest, let me “clue you in!” There’s quite a bit to know for next year.

So Many Model Train Layouts

Every model train layout intricately portrays almost every scene you can think of. This wonderland of imagination takes you back in time to drive in theaters and logging displays, completely detailing every scene. You can watch a model train set rumble through the mountains and mining communities, or turn another direction and watch a complete cityscape or rural pumpkin grove, displayed with little-bitty people!

Trainfest has been held every year since 1971 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This weekend event started out in a little VFW hall, and has grown to accommodate upwards of 20,000 people at the Wisconsin Exposition Center. This past November 8 & 9 was the 37th Annual Trainfest Exhibition, featuring every imaginable model train scale and model train layout on display for the whole family. That’s right, the whole family can afford to go when 14 and under get in free with an adult!

All Train Scales Represented

Besides the magical, miniature life brought to animation in everything from Z to G scale, it’s fascinating to me how modelers of all ages demonstrate the “crafting” side to the displays. They were on hand to show you how to make trees, watering holes, Styrofoam scenery, and so much more.

You can purchase a model train set right there, when your inspiration grabs you! Every vendor having anything to do with model train scale turns out for this event. All the realistic audio equipment is there, layout kits, building designs; all the latest technology. Over 50 hobby dealers, hobby clubs, and organizations, and over 60 manufacturers are available for presentations and information. Yeah, you don’t want to miss this next year.

It doesn’t matter what stage of the game you’re in. If you are just becoming enamored with this educational hobby, or if you are a long time enthusiast out to build a better mousetrap, take the family for an awe-inspiring journey into fantasyland and don’t miss Trainfest 2009!

Model railroading is a great hobby for the entire family! If you’re new to model trains, the best place to start is with a complete set. Once you have yours, have everyone help set up the track, then take turns running the train. You can add to the fun at anytime with more track, different locomotives and cars as well as accessories.

When it comes to selecting sets for kids, here are some things to keep in mind. An adult should supervise and help set up any train set — unless noted, all sets are electrically powered, and most include small parts. All sets are recommended for children ages 8 and over. Always read and follow the instructions that come with the set.

Model Train Scale

It’s important to choose a train set that’s the right size for the age of the child. Sets come in several different sizes, called scales. Each is known by an alphabetical name, or by size. From largest to smallest, popular scales include:

• G Scale Trains – 1/22
• O Scale Trains – 1/48
• On30 – 1/48 (O Scale Train models using 30″ Narrow Gauge Track)
• S Scale Trains – 1/64
• HO Scale Model Trains – 1/87
• N Scale Model Trains – 1/160
• Z Scale Trains – 1/220

About Train Scale

G Scale Trains

Proportion 1:22.5
Big models, sometimes called “Large Scale” trains. Sizes range from 1/22.5 to 1/25 and also include #1 gauge (1/32 Scale) equipment. The largest electrically powered models, starter sets can be used in small areas. Some brands can be used outdoors. The large size of many G Scale trains allows for rugged handling by younger children. Many models have working parts that enhance play value.

O Scale Trains

Proportion 1:48
(also On30, O27)
If you grew up with Lionel trains, you’ll remember that they were O Scale models. Ruggedly built, modern O Scale is a good choice for youngsters or permanent layouts and many sets feature animated accessories. Traditional sizes include “O27″ (the number 27 refers to the 27″ diameter of a full circle of track) sets that feature tighter curves, making them a good choice where space for bigger trains is limited. Another recent addition is “On30” Scale, which are O Scale models running on a narrower track just 30 scale inches wide, that’s also ideal for Christmas Villages.

S Scale Trains

Proportion 1:64
S Scale trains appeared in the 1950s (American Flyer was one of several popular brands) as houses grew smaller. Its chief advantage was size; larger than HO for more detail and improved reliability, but smaller than O Scale so less room was needed for a layout. Today, the selection of kits and assembled items is small, but this has made S Scale popular with modelers who enjoy the challenges of scratchbuilding and kitbashing.

HO Scale Model Trains

Proportion 1:87
“HO” means “half – o;” models are half the size of O Scale. HO is the most popular scale with the greatest selection of sets and accessories, as it allows lots of railroad action in a small area. Children may need adult help to set up or take down the set.

N Scale Model Trains

Proportion 1:160
This scale is an ideal choice for apartments or anyone with limited space. N Scale trains are easy to store when not in use and are ruggedly built for trouble-free operation. The small size is fine for teenagers and adults; younger children will need an adult to help to set up or take down a set.

Z Scale Trains

Proportion 1:220
Z scale was developed in by Märklin in the early 1970s, and is the smallest of all the working models — so tiny that a little layout will even fit in a briefcase! Most Z trains and equipment are based on European railways.

Accessories

Starter sets typically include a powered locomotive, cars, track and power pack.

LOCOMOTIVES pull the train. Sets may come with modern diesels or old-time steam engines. Most have working headlights. Some steam locos even make smoke. Large Scale steam locomotives sometimes have chug and/or whistle sounds.

TRACK sets come with separate pieces of straight and curved track to build an oval. Some include a special piece called a switch or turnout, to move trains on to another track. Many sets include a special section called a rerailer, which has an insert between the rails that aligns the wheels of the cars and locomotive, making it easy to put them on the track. Sets may also come with track sections connected by small, formed metal pieces called rail joiners. Others use special track systems designed for easy snap-together assembly. Matching sections of track for both types are sold separately to enlarge the basic oval.

COUPLERS are mounted on the ends of cars and locomotives; they keep the train connected. Simply push cars together gently and the couplers connect. A standard style is used with each size (scale) of train. Many sets now include equipment with knuckle-shaped couplers that look like clasped hands — this style holds more securely. Couplers are often mounted on the bottom of the car, helping to keep the wheels on the tracks.

POWER PACKS (electrically powered controllers) let you speed up, slow down or stop your locomotive, and run it forward or backward. Most packs have two sets of connections on the back — one set powers the trains, the other runs electrically powered accessories. Virtually all power packs in use today are UL listed, indicating they have passed tests to meet specific safety requirements. Most come with a built-in protective device that shuts off the power pack if there’s an electrical problem. All power packs must be plugged in to a wall socket. This should be done by an adult, or with adult supervision. Specific instructions for using the power pack are included with sets.

Other Resources

You can find a lot of great information about model railroading on the Web. There are various magazines and books that focus on model railroading for beginners. If possible, make your first stop at a local hobby shop or attend a local train show. Many of these folks are lifelong model train enthusiasts who will be happy to help with your questions.

Content here was provided by Walthers. For more info, please visit walthers.com.

If you’ve thought about building a model train layout, but you’re not quite sure where to start, this video series by Model Railroader Magazine will show you the way. Each video clip is short, and all of them together will take you about an hour to watch. Enjoy!

The Rest of the How To Build a Model Train Layout Series:

WGH Video Scene 2 Benchwork Part 1

WGH Video Scene 3 Benchwork Part 2

WGH Video Scene 4 Laying Track

WGH Video Scene 5 Control

WGH Video Scene 6 Structures

WGH Video Scene 7 Scenery Part 1

WGH Video Scene 8 Scenery Part 2

WGH Video Scene 9 Conclusion

Airbrushing? The very sound of that word throws many hobbyists into cardiac arrest. I have heard people say “I could never learn to use an airbrush” or “An airbrush is too expensive, so I just use spray cans.” Well, I am here to tell you that anyone can use an airbrush and it is not as expensive as one might think. Airbrushes are extremely useful tools and greatly enhance the finish of models.

As a model railroader and professional model builder, I have used airbrushes for about 25 years, in all kinds of situations. My first set-up was on my open patio. I had to paint in the spring/summertime and could not paint on windy days. I did custom painting for hire with this set-up for five years and obtained very good results. In my present situation, I have a professional paint booth. This is very convenient and allows year-round painting with the airbrushes hooked up at all times.

I have people asking me all the time “What type of airbrush should I buy for model painting?” There are many types and styles of airbrushes and you really want one that you will be comfortable using. There are generally four types of airbrushes as follows:

• External Mix-Single Action
• External Mix-Double Action
• Internal Mix-Single Action
• Internal Mix-Double Action

External Mix – paint and air mixture is performed outside the airbrush body.

Internal Mix – paint and air mixture is performed inside the airbrush body.

Single Action -The airbrush trigger controls only airflow.

Double Action -The airbrush trigger controls both airflow and paint flow.

I personally use both an external mix-single action and an internal mix-single action for the majority of my model painting. These airbrushes allow you to preset the paint flow and then just spray. You will find that if you paint a lot, as I do, the single action does not fatigue your trigger finger as readily as a double action. I also use an internal mix-double action for most of my weathering effects. Once learned, a double action airbrush will give you very fine control to do very realistic weathering effects. Internal mix airbrushes tend to atomize the paint more sufficiently, which I have found gives a little smoother finish. However, once learned, I think that you can get great results from any of the above-mentioned airbrushes. External mix is a little easier to clean than an internal mix.

I have used many different brands of airbrushes, and I am presently using the Iwata Eclipse series. I have a HP-SA Single Action and a HP-CS Gravity Feed-Double Action. The HP-SA I use for general painting and the HP-CS I use for weathering effects. I also like the Paasche H series airbrush for general painting. I have found these to be the most well balanced airbrushes with the paint cup/jar attached. The better balance an airbrush has, the better results you will get. You don’t want to be fighting your equipment. I also like the fact that these airbrushes are the easiest to clean. And cleaning your airbrush is extremely important to insure that it last for years.

The Iwata airbrushes have a unique feature, which I really like. The needle does not protrude from the front of the nozzle. So, if you bump the front of the brush or drop the brush as I too frequently do, the needle is protected from damage. It is very important that the needle remains straight and centered in the nozzle of the airbrush.

My intention with this series is to give information on what works for me and to, hopefully, help you avoid some of the pitfalls that I have experienced. I intend to discuss airbrush equipment, paints, mixing, cleaning, weathering and any other items that come to mind that pertain to airbrushing model railroad equipment. The techniques and equipment I use are not exclusive to model railroading, though. If you have specific questions or ideas for something you would like to see in this series, please feel free to drop me a note. I am always happy to discuss this hobby of ours. Until next time!

Written by Lee A. Yeager and reprinted with permission of ARTtalk.com and Iwata-Medea Co.