This guide will tell you all you need to know
What is a train set?
A train set contains everything you need to run a train:
- Your locomotive (or modern multiple unit)
- coaches or wagons
- Track
- Connecting wires
- Controller
- Power Supply
All UK designed analogue train sets use a 12v DC power supply to the track, and the voltage is varied to control speed and direction.
Digital or DCC train sets use a 12v to 15v continuous supply to the track, and a digital signal is used to control speed and direction.
Both of these control systems are perfectly safe, never use any power source other than the supplied transformer and train controller.
A train set is not to be confused with a train pack, a train pack contains just the train itself.
The complexity, detail level and size of a train set varies according to its intended age range and purchase price.
Hornby do a range of beginners train sets with a simple oval of track, four wheeled engine and a couple of waggons up to collectors sets with highly detailed trains and more track.
Here are two train set examples:
The Highland Rambler train set is a good example of a young persons starter set.
It includes everything you need to run trains straight out of the box.
It also includes a ramp to help you place the wagons and engine on the track.
The pre-printed train mat adds colour and and interest to the surface under the track.
additional track and buildings can be added later
It includes everything you need to run trains straight out of the box.
It also includes a ramp to help you place the wagons and engine on the track.
The pre-printed train mat adds colour and and interest to the surface under the track.
additional track and buildings can be added later
The Hornby Tornado Express Train set has a highly detailed model locomotive and Pullman coaches.
The higher level of detail requires more careful handling than the highland rambler.
This set would be an ideal set for someone interested in model railways as a hobby.
Choosing a train set
In a train set the sections of track are held together with rail joiners, these will wear over time.
Because of this it is best to choose a railway set that fits your available space and can be left set up. If you cannot leave the set assembled then choosing a set with a simple track is best.
Hornby's railroad range of models and starter sets are designed to accurately represent the real locomotives and trains but with less separate detailing. This makes them less prone to damage.
For younger modellers choose a train set with simple locomotives and few wagons or coaches , the set can always be expanded as they get used to controlling the engines and learn how to care for the set. Bachmann produce a range of items from the 'Thomas' stories, and Hornby produce starter sets.
When I had my first train set my father made a simple baseboard that folded flat against the wall of my bedroom down the side of my bed. When I wanted to play with it the board was lifted on top of the mattress.
All train sets using the standard British track formats can be expanded by adding track at a later date.
The Hornby OO Gauge track and PECO OO Gauge Setrack ranges are compatible with each other.
These standard sizes are:
- N Gauge or 2mm scale, complex sets can be built up in small spaces but not child friendly
- OO Gauge or 4mm scale
- OO9 Gauge - this represents narrow gauge trains at 4mm scale
- O Gauge or 7mm scale, excellent of high levels of detail but you need a lot of space
Assembly of the train set
- Start with a smooth level surface such as a table, or better still purpose made base board
- If your set has a train mat lay this onto the surface first
- Most manufacturers will provide a set of instructions
- Decide where you want to control the set from and start by positioning the train controller within easy reach
- Connect the power rail to the controller, then extend the railway track to complete the oval of track
- To join the rails slide two sections together on a flat even surface making sure the rails and rail joiners slide into one another.
- All UK designed train sets will clip together to form a complete circuit, if the track ends don't meet it is because you have something in the wrong place. Never force sections of track to join if they don't line up.
- Once you have the track joined together make sure there are no gaps in the rails
- place your train on the rails and gently turn the speed control until the locomotive moves
- Like everything mechanical that is brand new allow time for the engine to 'bed in' and resist the temptation to send the locomotive round at full speed. You may need to give the engine a gentle nudge
Caring for the train set
- Always ensure the railway track and models are free from dust before use
- Do not allow the set or Controller and power transformer to get wet
- Regularly clean the track with a product such as track magic
- Decide where you want to control the set from and start by positioning the train controller within easy reach
- Connect the power rail to the controller, then extend the railway track to complete the oval of track
- To join the rails slide two sections together on a flat even surface making sure the rails and rail joiners slide into one another.
- All UK designed train sets will clip together to form a complete circuit, if the track ends don't meet it is because you have something in the wrong place. Never force sections of track to join if they don't line up.
- Once you have the track joined together make sure there are no gaps in the rails
- place your train on the rails and gently turn the speed control until the locomotive moves
- Like everything mechanical that is brand new allow time for the engine to 'bed in' and resist the temptation to send the locomotive round at full speed. You may need to give the engine a gentle nudge