| Model railroad train track is both the foundation | | | | course, the longer the railway, the more |
| and the limiting factor of the railway layout. Track | | | | expensive the layout is going to be. |
| comes in many widths -- called the gauge -- and | | | | When buying model railroad train track, there are |
| train cars are manufactured specifically for each | | | | many necessary components:o Code - that is the |
| size track. It is important when buying the rolling | | | | rail height, measured in incheso Switches or |
| stock - the engine, boxcars, carriages and | | | | Turnouts - these are necessary for switching |
| caboose - to ensure that you have matched the | | | | trackso Rerailers - devices that put the |
| scale of the train to the gauge of the track. | | | | locomotive back on the railso Terminal Rerailers - |
| Otherwise, your locomotive will either not run at | | | | connect the rails to the power sourceo Rail |
| all, or will derail constantly. | | | | Joiners - metal joints that maintain electrical |
| The gauge of the model railroad train track is the | | | | connection between the segments |
| measurement of the distance between the | | | | Curves are essential to the railroading layout, |
| outside of the two rails. In the United States the | | | | offering a break from the monotony of the |
| gauge is measured in inches, but just about | | | | straight line, and allowing efficient use of space. |
| everywhere else, it is measured in millimeters. The | | | | Different gauges of model railroad train track are |
| 'third rail,' located between the two outside rails, is | | | | capable of turning at varying degrees. Not all |
| what supplies the power. | | | | railroading track is able to make a sharp turn. This |
| Since the rails are the basis of the entire system, | | | | is something to take into consideration before |
| it is important to invest in good quality model | | | | making your first purchase. If you need the |
| railroad train track. Generally, the HO scale models | | | | railway to turn sharply in order to fit in the |
| use nickel-alloy rails that resist corrosion and will | | | | designated room, it might be wise to research the |
| last for many years with minimal upkeep. For the | | | | gauge's turn potential first. The 180 degree arc is |
| outdoor G scale models, stainless steel is | | | | a standard turn in the railroading layout, and all of |
| preferred because it resists the elements. Brass | | | | the varying gauges of track can make that turn. |
| rails may also be used. It is less expensive, but it | | | | Before committing to a layout, experiment a bit |
| is also less durable. Before using, the entire railway | | | | to ensure that operation of the train will be |
| needs to be given a wipe down with a towel, to | | | | smooth and effortless. Once glued in place, railway |
| remove any dust or debris that might interfere | | | | will be difficult to relocate. It is best not to rush |
| with smooth operation of the train. | | | | this part of the operation. Rather than thinking of |
| When planning the layout of model railroad train | | | | laying railway as a chore, consider it as a |
| track, length is one of the first considerations. | | | | pleasurable step in the process of designing your |
| Generally, the length will be determined by two | | | | miniature railroading system. Observing life-size |
| factors: size of the room where the layout will | | | | trains in real settings will give you some ideas for |
| reside, and the size of the pocketbook. Of | | | | how to lay down your model railroad train track. |