Bachmann Trains & Accessories

Bachmann Trains Model Railroading
Bachmann Trains Model Railroading

The majority of model trains run on electricity, generally operated on a low-voltage DC supply system while other companies are choosing to use an AC supply system. In the day, electric model trains ran on batteries because electricity wasn’t near as widespread, as seen today. These kinds of trains are rather inexpensive and not idyllic for train model enthusiasts.

Electric Train Models Of The Past and Present

Train models of the yester-years used a three-rail system with wheels that ran on a metal track amid metal sleepers that would conduct the power. This was highly convenient since the majority of model trains were constructed of metal along with the track and rolling stocks. However, as models became more accurate, a two-rail system was created; the wheels became isolated and the tracks carried a positive and negative supply (or two sides of an AC supply system). This system allowed for fine metal studs rather than a central rail, which gave it a more realistic look.

The early types used steam or clockwork that would make it run until it had no juice left; there was no way a person could control how fast or slow it was going and no way to stop or start it. However, electric model trains allowed for more sophistication including train throttles. The AC powered locomotives had mechanisms that would allow users to change direction and control the speed. DC powered locomotives allowed users to change directions by reversing the polarity. Trains could be stopped by removing/shutting down blocks from the track layout. The controller would be able to run more than one train and control the speed of every one; plus the controller would have control over the other accessories that would make the models real.

A Look At Two Popular Electric Train Models

Now the majority of them are electric but the more popular models are the N and 0 scale types.

N Scale Models – Most train enthusiasts favor the N scale models, which have scales that range 1:148 to 1:160 with a gauge of nine millimeters. One reason it’s favored is the scale because it’s half the size of the H0 scale and allows enthusiasts to create layouts that are small but very detailed. While there are smaller train models, they don’t match the popularity seen with the N scale model, which are powered by DC 12-volt capacity.

The DC voltage that’s given to the rails will determine the train’s speed and direction. New N scale train model versions use a DCC system that sends out train control signals through a decoder, which are installed in every locomotive. This gives the user more control over the train’s speed and direction than what the AC and DC could provide.

0 Scale Model Trains – These electric model trains are very popular for model railroading and toy trains. They are popular for three big reasons:

- Durability

- Price

- Easy to handle and work by children

Modelers often prefer the 0 scale type. These trains run on both the three-rail system from the early 1930s to the late 1960s; however, decline for them came with the introduction of the smaller models and a low-voltage DC supply was provided. It gets his name for the zero-gauge due to its small scale of other model trains before World War II, with ranges of 1:48 to 1:64; however, the Marklin Company had asked for specifications of 1:43. These trains are clearly more for collectibles and train running enthusiasts.

George T. is a model train builder and enthusiast. For more information and advice on electric model trains then visit http://www.modeltrainsutopia.com

Build a model train layout: Model railroad introduction with Michael Gross WGH