Bachmann Trains & Accessories

Model Train Lighting Systems
Why is there such a big MPG difference between the 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid Base and Limited?

The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid Base model gets an estimated 34/31 MPG. The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited model gets an estimated 30/27 MPG. Yet they both have the same engines and drive train. The only difference between the two is accessories (such as audio system, leather, ambient lighting, etc). There is a 200lb difference in weight (the Limited being heavier) but is that the reason why there is such a big difference in MPG ratings? These ratings are from the Ford site, other sites report different ratings (some reporting equal MPG for both models). Just curious as to what is causing this MPG difference between the two.

The listed mileage for the Base model is the mileage for a 2WD version and the listed mileage for the Limited is for the 4WD model. Not sure why they didn’t mention it on the website.

http://www.fordvehicles.com/suvs/escapehybrid/specifications/engine/

Model Train Lighting Systems

The Popularity of N Scale Model Trains

Model trains have been around for many years and it is common knowledge that there were gauges similar to that of the N scale train from 1927 and onward. When the N scale train model trains were finally created and launched by the Arnold Company in 1962, they quickly defined voltage, gauge, and a number of other model train specifications that the other gauges could only hope to come close to but never quite achieve.

The N scale train is extremely popular in areas where space is a factor. Let’s take Japan for example. Their country is small, so it stands to reason that their housing would be a bit smaller. Because of this the N scale train is a viable option that will allow individuals to create elaborate scenery and even realistic scenarios captured in time.

The N scale phenomenon is not only occurring in Japan however. People all over the world are catching on to how great the N scale is and it has even become a staple in Australia. For many years Australians did not have access to the N scale models, and now that they do, it has become a flourishing industry.

As you can see, the N scale is here to stay and many people are beginning to adopt it as their standard means of modeling. Because of the standardized gauges it has become possible for several different manufacturers to create their own N scale trains, which permits track, DCC boards, and nearly every other accessory to be compatible with the hardware. This was not possible prior to the late 1950’s but fortunately someone finally saw the light and started to create common parts.

For those who are not familiar or perhaps intimate with the model train phenomenon, there is a need to take model trains to shows and other events. For this reason it may be necessary to have a few different tracks standing by for shows just in case you do not wish to move the track you currently have set up.

There are some individuals in this hobby however that might choose to relocate their entire bench work in the interest of showing off their scenery to the modeling community. There are other reasons of course, which are not limited to the community. Some individuals might actually need to move their bench work from one location to the next, including locations within their own homes. For this reason there are a number of bench work considerations to be made which are outside the scope of this article.

In any case, the N scale is one of the most amazing of the train scales out there, and it would be a pity if you did not take advantage of it. Make sure you examine every aspect of it and determine whether or not it is right for your interpretation of this amazing hobby. N scale model trains might just be your ticket to a more realistic model train experience!

About the Author

Want more valuable tips on setting up your own N Scale Model Railroads. Grab your copy of our free mini-course on model railway train secrets today at http://modelrailroadtraintips.com right now.

Detection of trains at roadway intersections?

As trains approach intersections with roadways, how are the lights and such at the intersection triggered? Is the train “detected,” is the system signaled by the train, or something else? If they’re signaled, via what? RF? Please, no answers about how it /could/ be done, I’m interested in how it is done in practice. I’m also aware not all train/roadway intersections have lights etc., you can omit that part. Also not interested in how it’s done on model train tracks. The systems I’m asking about are the ones in the north-western US, if it matters. I’ve always been curious how this is done.
dieterzakas –

Railroad crossings have what are called islands.The island is a track circuit with low voltage current flowing through it.When the train wheels pass over insulated joints in the track it shorts the circuit out and trips a relay which activates the gates.The train doesn’t provide the current.The wheels act as a shunt completing a circuit.There is usually 2 islands on each side of the crossing.On e further out and one very close to the crossing.That way if a train stops short of the crossing the gates can go back up.Then when we start moving again the train enters the next island circuit and re-activates the crossing protection.Rain doesn’t bother them because the current is too low to cause a short in most cases.Flooding can cause water to get into the relays and short them out though.

model train backdrop