In this segment, Chris Chianelli, host of DIY's Radio Control Hobbies shows how to get started in the hobby of G-scale model trains with a starter kit. Whether you're building a small starter railroad like the one shown in this demonstration, or an elaborate setup in your backyard, the basics of setting up the track and getting the engine running are similar for most models. For this demonstration, Chris assembles a small indoor track for the G-scale starter set -- the Egg Liner (TM) by Aristo-Craft (TM) (figure A).
Important: This demonstration shows basic instructions for assembly and operation of this particular model of G-scale train. There are variations in assembly for each particular model. Read and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with your train, whether it is this particular model or another. Additional information about assembly as well as running, troubleshooting and fine-tuning the model can be found in the manufacturer's instructions.
Materials : G-scale train starter kit
Small Phillips screwdriver
Steps : - The initial step is to lay out the tracks for the Egg-Liner. This beginner-level kit includes a very basic track set-up -- twelve track sections to create a small circular track (figure B).
- The tracks themselves are constructed of brass (figure C), so they won't rust or corrode even if used outdoors. For an indoor layout, the tracks will likely be nailed down to a wood surface or tabletop. Small pre-drilled holes in the railroad ties accommodate small brads that can be used to hold the tracks secure.
- The track sections snap together easily and are then secured with small Phillips-head screws to prevent the couplings from separating because of vibration from the engines. The small screws are installed in threaded holes in the tracks (figure D).
- The couplings (figure E) have spring-clips to hold them together, but they are also secured with brass fasteners on either side of the tracks.
- Once the track has been assembled, connect the red and black wires for the transformer to the bottom of the tracks (figure F) according to the directions that come with the kit. The red wire connects to one side of the track, and the black connects to the other.
- Plug the other ends of the wires into the corresponding connections on the transformer. The ends of the wire leads simply insert into small spring-loaded connector clips (figure G) similar to those used on the backs of audio speakers. Connect them as specified in the manufacturer's instructions, with red and black connected to corresponding clips.
- Place the Egg Liner engine on the tracks (figure H).
- Plug the transformer into a standard outlet.
- Safety Note: An important safety feature of G-scale model railroads is that, at full throttle, only about 20 volts is running through the rails. Since engines are rarely run at full throttle, rail voltage is generally even lower -- so risk of electrical shock is minimized.
- Turn transmitter on and control direction and speed of train with transformer control (figure I).
- The Egg Liner kit comes with just a single engine, but once you've tested the engine, you can add more railroad cars and miniature buildings and accessories if you desire (figure J).
- Maintenance Tip: To eliminate squeaking wheels on G-scale trains, simply add a single drop of oil to the axles where they come out of the sealed gear boxes (figure K). Be sure to use specialized oil, available from hobby centers, that is suitable for use on these trains, and which won't damage plastic parts. Check the manufacturer's instructions that come with your train for additional information on lubrication and oiling.
RESOURCES :
Aristo-Craft (TM) Trains
Aristo-Craft Trains
Website: www.aristocraft.com
Garden Train Association
Garden Train Association
Columbus, OH 43229
Fax: 614-436-3501
Website: www.gardentrains.org
Garden Railways Magazine
Garden Railways Magazine
Waukesha, WI 53187
Fax: 262-796-1615
Website: www.trains.com
Egg Liner (TM) G-Scale train kit
Aristo-Craft Trains
Website: www.aristocraft.com
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