In this episode of DIY Radio Control Hobbies, host Chris Chianelli explores the world of G-scale trains -- small, electrically powered trains and train sets that can grow from a single set of trestles set to a miniature world in your basement or back yard. Following an introduction to G-scale trains, Chris shows how to get started by assembling a simple track and starter train-set, then he visits some die-hard enthusiasts who have turned their entire backyards into miniaturized railroading landscapes.
Introduction to G-Scale Trains G-scale, or "giant-scale" trains differ from other forms of model railroading trains in that they are considerably larger. Though the smaller and more familiar HO-scale trains (figure A) are still the most common, G-scale is now the fastest growing specialty area in the hobby of model railroading. Here are some reasons why.
- The size of the G-scale trains, and the way they are constructed, makes them suitable to run outside in backyards and gardens as well as indoor train-rooms. Combining the hobby of model trains with building and arranging miniature structures (figure B), creative landscaping and gardening makes this a hobby that whole families may enjoy together.
- Aside from providing the opportunity of creating an entire miniaturized railroading world in your backyard, G-scale also allows you to create specific time periods, since accurate replicas are available representing the whole history of actual railroading. For example, the G-scale 440-American (figure C) is an authentic replica of an actual train that operated in the US in the mid-1800's, just after the Civil War.
- The "440" of this particular model refers to the wheel configuration of the engine -- a four-wheel pilot truck, four driving wheels and no trailing wheels. Most scale-model steam-engines found in the hobby contain similar number designations in their names referring to their specific wheel configurations.
- The 462-Pacific (figure D) is a replica of its full-scaled steam-engine counterpart that was a built in the 1920s and operated in the 30's and 40's. The 462 has a four-wheel pilot truck, six driving wheels and a two-wheel trailing truck.
- The SD-45 is a replica of the type of modern diesel engine that is familiar to modern-day train enthusiasts.
- Manufacturers of G-scale trains have worked hard to bring authenticity and accuracy to the world of miniaturized trains. They also strive to produce high-quality, reliable operating models at affordable prices. G-scale train engines start out in price at about 150 dollars. Some G-scale components come with devices that produce actual smoke and train-engine sounds.
- On some models, the front of the engine boiler-front opens up to reveal control switches (figure E) such as an on-off switch and a polarity switch that controls whether the engine is running forward or in reverse.
- Manufacturers strive to give the interior detail on most models (figure F ) the same level of accuracy as the exterior.
- Other train-car models also are made with attention to detail, as with tinder cars that have wood made to look like miniature split firewood (figure G).
- There's enough variety available in G-scale to satisfy almost any train enthusiast (figure H). In the segment that follows, Chris shows how to assemble the tracks for a beginner-level G-scale model.
RESOURCES :
RC Modeler magazine
RC Modeler magazine
Sierra Madre, CA 91025
Fax: 626-355-1476
Website: www.rcmagazine.com
Aristo-Craft (TM) Trains
Aristo-Craft Trains
Website: www.aristocraft.com
Bachmann (TM) Trains
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
| 
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
