Some simple steps can maximise your enjoyment of your model railway. JONATHAN NEWTON offers 20 top tips to aid construction and reliable operation of your new layout.
BUILDING A model railway is fun and rewarding, but can also present a series of challenges along the way. You may need to learn new skills or brush up on techniques you had limited knowledge in – you may even discover expertise in an area that really comes in handy. No matter your abilities or experience in model railways, here are some top tips to help you make the most of your first layout.
1 Don’t attempt to set up your model railway on carpet. Carpet and pet hair can damage motor and gear mechanisms in locomotives and can be extremely difficult to remove. Always opt for a clean, dry and dust-free surface away from the floor.
Above: Good quality tools are essential when building a layout. A soldering iron, solder, a selection of differently coloured wire, a screwdriver, pliers and wire cutters are a good start.
2 Keep locomotives and power supplies away from water and other liquids. Not only can they be a dangerous combination; you do not want to short circuit or destroy a motor, thus rendering it useless and needing to be replaced.
3 When build…
