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How to Take Care of Your Model Trains

What is the standard track size for a HO Model Train?

I have been given a size HO model train as a birthday present and I would like to build a model railroad in my garden. I am a newbie and I want to start buying materials but I have no idea what size track to buy. I would like to know what is the standard size track for a size HO model train?

Answer
Model Railroad TRACK has three primary measurements:

1) Scale – is the ratio of the model to the real thing: in HO scale, the model is 1:87 the model is 1/87th the size of the real thing
2) Gauge – Gauge is the distance between the rails, and the standard gauge in North America is 4′ 8 ½”. (that means in HO scale, the rails are 0.649 inches (16.5 mm).
3) Code – is the height of the rails. Mainline rails are taller than spur and yard rails. In HO, the two primary “code” sizes are 83 and 100.

HO railroading isn’t particularly given to outdoor use.

Here is a link to the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA), the US standards group, which has great information: http://www.nmra.org/

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

All the components necessary to build up a successful model train layout are expensive – locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, power controllers, buildings, landscaping, to list just some – these are all expensive. It is no wonder that the hobby of setting up and maintaining a model train collection is considered one of the more costly hobbies that you can become involved in. However, that does not stop many thousands, may be hundreds of thousands of people, spending a considerable amount of money on their model train collections.

Because of the significant amount of money you will have invested in establishing your model train collection, it is essential that you should take all the necessary measures to ensure that it is properly cared for. You would not want to have your investment to end up in the trash.

You will find that taking good care of your model train collection will save you a significant amount of money for repair and maintenance in the years to come.

The following simple guidelines should remind you of the basic essentials of the good habits you need to develop that will help take care of your very valuable model train collection and maintain it in prime working condition:

• make sure you store the most expensive parts of your model train collection – the locomotives and rolling stock -all the wagons, carriages, etc in a safe place when they are not in use. They should preferably be in a cupboard or containers to prevent dust and moisture affecting them. If you have your model train layout in your garage or in a basement, make sure it is damp proof;

• make sure you always wipe dust and dirt off the model train collection components. Use a soft cloth or a soft sponge when doing this. This will help prevent dirt accumulating, particularly in many of the surface ridges. An accumulation of dirt can potentially, over time, destroy the paintwork and can inhibit the proper functioning of any of the individual items;

• if you are using batteries to operate your model train, as many people still do, take them out of the train if you will not be using your train for some time. Batteries leak if not in use for a period of time. The leakage could damage the model train because the chemicals in batteries are harsh and abrasive;

• if you are operating electric control of your trains, make sure the tracks which carry the current are kept clean. Otherwise the proper functioning of your model train layout can be severely affected;

• let the locomotive of your model train run on its own power. Try to avoid touching a locomotive when it is operating. Doing so can often cause damage to the motor.

While you may find that the tasks of maintaining your model train collection properly, such as keeping it clean and safely stored, are somewhat tedious, and tend to detract from the enjoyment you get from having and operating your model trains on your layout, the development of good maintenance habits will, in the long run, add to your enjoyment by providing a well functioning, good looking model train collection.

And – it will save you money by not requiring costly replacements for poorly functioning components.

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