| A small mirror or mirror tile can be helpful on a | | | | locating the problem. |
| model train layout when looking for kinks, dips and | | | | Also, consider using a mirror when laying track in |
| misalignments in track. | | | | difficult locations and even track that is out in the |
| To check alignments simply set the mirror on the | | | | open. |
| edge on the track. The mirror will enable you to | | | | The late John Allen famous for his Gore & |
| inspect the alignment of the rails, not by looking | | | | Daphetid model railroad layout made clever use of |
| directly along the rails, but instead by looking into | | | | mirrors. |
| the mirror at the image of the rails. This will save | | | | John Allen had more than 30 mirrors on his layout, |
| you from stretching or bending over (not as easy | | | | most of which were undetectable. Using a mirror |
| as we get older). A mirror will also save you from | | | | can add depth beyond the backdrop. It can make |
| getting track imprints in your cheek when leaning | | | | a model railroad layout appear to go on forever. |
| over to inspect something up close. | | | | For example; a mirror can reflect a road, or |
| When working on your model train layout bend | | | | track, and make it appear to continue into the |
| down and look along a rail and the track will | | | | distance. It can give the appearance of having |
| probably appear to be very smooth. However, by | | | | more buildings or trees than there really are on |
| looking at the image of the rail in a mirror, you | | | | the model train layout. |
| may notice small kinks and dips that you did not | | | | A mirror can also be placed at the end of a |
| know existed. | | | | shunting yard to make it look double in size. Using |
| So, unless you have a neck like an ostrich, a | | | | a mirror is a simple technique, but can be very |
| mirror can prove to be a very useful tool in the | | | | effective especially when used on a small model |
| toolbox of any model railroader. A mirror is | | | | train layout. However, use mirrors wisely and take |
| particularly useful when placed alongside the track | | | | care positioning them for best effect. They serve |
| to view the action of trucks and wheels while the | | | | no purpose if all you can see is your own |
| train moves over a trouble spot. If derailments | | | | reflection - unless you are a budgie! |
| are a problem, a small mirror can be helpful in | | | | |