S Gauge Model Train - Toy Train Guide

By Ernest Perry

In this article I am going to be talking to you about the S-scale or the S-gauge model train. This is a model train thats scale is 1:64 in size. It's popular because it fits between the HO and O model train scales. It can meet the requirements on a scale which is larger then the HO scale, which is considered too small for many hardcore model train fanatics.

It is how ever smaller then the O scale for model trains, which is good because it allows your track layouts to be laid out in a smaller area of space. As we all know, space can be at a premium when it comes to model trains and having space around the home. There is nothing more annoying then having a vision for your model train layout but not having enough room to implement it.

The S-gauge series of model trains has been around for nearly 100 years, but it did not really become popular until the creation of the re designed American Flyer model of trains. These were first produced by a company called A C Gilbert. They were based in Connecticut in the USA in the mid 1930's. Funnily enough it was one of the companies that was not hit hard by the recession, which just goes to prove how crazy we model railroaders really are!

The American Flyer model train, the train that has become so popular started its life out as a clockwork model train. It then became later an electric train. At this point it was dramatically redesigned to fit its new power mode. Gilbert's design for the new American Flyer was a huge hit. The American Flyer and the model trains build by A C Gilbert were built on the S-scale, how ever they ran on the O-gauge tracks which were standard at that time.

A decade or so later, A C Gilbert changed it up again. They designed and re designed it. They re designed the tracks for the S-scale model trains. Taking it away from the more traditional 3 track rails which were the ones used in the electric model trains of the day.

In general the three track rail back then would have two outer tracks for the wheels of the model train, and then the 3rd track in the middle would be the one carrying the current from the electricity to power the model trains motor.

The three track model was not very similar to the real thing how ever the two track rails were very similar and become very popular. The two track rails had a more realistic look to them and they made the layouts seem more real. This is because they were starting to look like real train tracks.

These tracks were developed for the smaller S-scale model trains and it allowed the model train tracks to have more realistic layouts with more curves and curves of different radius's. This was much better to run the popular and newly re designed American Flyer on.

Most of the baby boomer S-scale fanatics would have had their first taste of that scale with the hugely popular American Flyer model train back in the 50's. This was a very popular Christmas present. At this time, the American Flyer was also competing with another popular model train series, the Lionel model train. These two were the big dogs in the market at the time.

The S-scale model trains are still very popular including the American Flyer. They are rising in popularity with the younger generation. The Lionel company purchased the model train type from the people who purchased the American Flyer from A C Gilbert. The Lionel company was in very deep financial strife in the 60's and 70's and it went through many different sets of hands. The Lionel company still operates today, but its a totally different company from what it was.

There are still many different organizations out there today who cater to those who are interested int he S-scale model of trains. There is actually a national association called "The National Association Of S-Gaugers."

They do have a very active membership with people ranging from all ages. If you Google them you will find their website. They have activities, a newsletter, events they hold and of course suppliers for S-model enthusiasts. They have associations in the US, UK and Australia and probably more but I could not find any. There are even some Yahoo Groups on the subject.

S-scale is still one of the fastest growing scales that is within the model train industry and it's not going away any time soon. It's actually growing quicker then any other scale. It works on such less space compared to that of the HO scale. S-scale products are reliable and they are still very accurate.

It might have been a checkered past for the S-scale model train, but it's not going anywhere soon and its a good way to start with your model train hobby.

A Review of LionelManuals Repair Manuals For Model Trains

By Stanley Hughs

Do you require to fix your Lionel train? Are you a Lionel train enthusiast, buying, mending up, and trading Lionel trains? If so, and then you'll be grateful to discover the perfect Lionel trains repair manual at LionelManuals.com!

Actually, it is much more than just a repair manual, too. It's a 2 CD set chock full of everything you ask to be confident to fix, mend, or accessorize Lionel trains at a professional level.

You'll learn particular instructions for mending every Lionel train invented from 1906 through 1986. These certain directions are exemplified throughout with 1000s of diagrams and unique blueprints to make reading the instructions crystal clear. Ask to take simply 1 part of a plot? No problem! They're "zoomable"! Yes, the manuals were designed with you in mind! You can zoom in on several region so that you can visualise exactly the position that you are operating on.

Even with so much subject, you can easily find the exact page you want for your particular train. Its user-friendly - they indexed each page for you!

Addition, the manual is printable, so that you can print out what you need and take it to your study table with you.

There is likewise a favourable divisions and accessories catalog. You can visualise what each is ready for your Lionel train, and acquire numerous huge minds on supplements to make your setup finished.

You can even reckon how your Lionel train set was in the first place prepare back when it was manufactured. They have included a lot of old Lionel catalogues, advertisings, and photographs. Experience your train with it's introductory concept, and feel a few warm memories of the old days creeping in. Most Lionel train collectors today have a passion for their hobby for this very reason. They think of what it was like when they were so small and they got their first Lionel train! They can experience the awe and the pleasure all over once more.
It's like Christmas morning! Is it the same for you? Is that why you are repairing your old Lionel train right now? They do have a way of bringing back those memories, don't they?

Yes, Lionel trains are 1 of the good sections of our story, and a region that we like to think.

Speaking of history, your two CD Lionel Train repair and restoration set likewise takes on an informative report: The History of the US Railway System. See how accurate your Lionel trains are, and how well the models fit in with the real history of trains in our nation. In Point Of Fact, several of the Lionel trains were an exact replication of a specific train.

All this can be yours with the full Lionel train repair manual set from LionelManuals.com. It's an quality value! You are confident to love it!

Tips to Improve Milage Easily

By Dan Sewinski

There is not a single driver among us who would not prefer to spend less of their hard-earned cash at the fuel pump. That is why people are becoming more and more aware of the many simple and cost effective ways that they can improve their fuel economy.

Just about everyone knows that if you want to save gas, you need to drive slower. After all, that is common sense. Even though you can save a lot of gas by going slower on the highway, many people are unwilling to do so, for instance. The trick is to find ways to increase gas mileage without having to do things that you are not willing to do in the long term.

First of all, stop neglecting the regular maintenance that your car needs! According to studies, a dirty air filter can cost you up to 20% of the gas mileage you should be receiving.

Two simple things that car owners can do to increase their gas mileage are changing their sparks and keeping their tires properly inflated.

Similarly, too many drivers are carting around a vehicle full of unnecessary things that are robbing them of valuable gas mileage. For every 250 pounds of excess gear in your car, you can count on around one mile per gallon lost! Also, make sure that you take bike racks and other items off of your vehicle when it is not the proper season.

It is possible to save money on gas even when filling up at the gas pump. Save a few extra cents by not topping off the gas tank so that the amount is an even dollar amount. The small amount of gas will most likely not get into the tank properly thereby wasting money.

Your car is designed with features to help maintain maximum gas mileage. For example, using your cruise control ensures that your engine will not be fluctuating and you can save a little money on gas as a result.

It is vital that you not only know the methods for increasing gas mileage, but that you are consistent in their implementation, unless you want to keep visiting the gas station regularly!