• Discover Model Trains

• Select Your Model Train Scale

• Put Together a Model Train Set

• Find Model Trains on eBay

• Buy Model Trains With Confidence

Discover Model Trains

Discover Model Trains

Manufacturers have the goal of creating accurate and realistic model trains. The first model trains were powered by wind-up clockwork, or steam engines, with the first electric model trains appearing in the late 19th century.

The German manufacturer Marklin produced detailed trains as well as signals, stations, houses, and other scenery and destinations. Other German companies made ride-on-top live steam trains.

In 1906, Joshua Cowen invented Lionel trains, which soon came to dominate the American toy train market. More recently, LGB popularized garden trains in the United States.

Toy trains look less realistic than model trains, but often appeal to collectors. The first toy trains were made of cast iron or were pull toys. In the early 20th century, Lionel started making toy trains for standard gauge and O gauge. Other companies, such as American Flyer, Ives, and Marx made similar trains.

The interactive aspect of trains makes toy trains perfect for young children. Some adults’ first memory of a toy was that of a Lionel train. You might want to get your kids a Lionel starter set, which includes everything needed to run a toy train.

Children between the ages of 4 and 6 may be introduced to wooden train sets that spark the imagination. Children 8 years of age and older may be introduced to S scale electric trains, HO scale electric trains, or G scale electric trains under the guidance of an adult. Make sure that you carefully read all safety instructions that come with any train set before allowing children of any age to use it.

Select Your Model Train Scale

Select Your Model Train Scale

Scale refers to the size of the model train compared to the real thing. A locomotive scale of 1:22.5 is 22.5 times smaller than a life-size locomotive. The "right scale" fits your personal preference, space, and budget.

For example, if you have a small space, you may want to choose a smaller scale and have a few loops of track instead of a straight line. You may want to create a temporary layout and take measurements to determine what fits best.

Some of the different scales used in model railroading include:

• Z scale (1:220) model railroad trains: Z scale trains make a good choice for anyone with limited space. These trains are not only tiny but highly detailed.    

• N scale (1:160) model railroad trains: N scale is a popular scale and the second smallest after Z scale. N scale trains are perfect for hobbyists who want to run long trains or keep the focus on the scenery. The price of N equipment is slightly higher than HO scale. Micro-Trains, or MTL, is a well-known brand that makes N scale trains.    

• HO scale (1:87) model railroad trains: HO scale trains, one of the most popular scales with modelers, come in countless types of trains and have a large selection of scenery available as well. HO trains are generally highly detailed and a good value. An HO layout requires a moderate amount of space.    

• S scale (1:64) model railroad trains: S scale trains—the scale of American Flyer trains—also have a strong following among narrow-gauge model railroaders. This larger scale makes the train dominate any set. S scale does not have the massive following of HO or N scale.    

• O scale (1:48) model railroad trains: O scale trains are very popular toy trains. Lionel continues to make trains for this scale. O scale trains are easily handled by children. MTH makes tinplate lines of model trains in O and standard gauges.    

• G scale (1:22.5) model railroad trains: G scale trains are for indoor use, but are especially suited for garden trains. L.G.B. made the scale popular in the United States and makes detailed, sturdy trains that stand up to the elements. Other manufacturers in this scale include Bachmann and Aristo-Craft.

Gauge refers to the distance between the rails. Models of a certain scale run on standard-gauge track unless otherwise mentioned; for example, gauge 1 track is standard gauge for G scale trains.

Put Together a Model Train Set

Put Together a Model Train Set

Scale model train buildings can be made from kits or bought preassembled. To construct a model train set, you'll need:

• A model train engine: Make sure to buy the highest-quality engine that you can. If you buy a diesel engine, make sure it has all-wheel electrical pickup. Low-priced diesels often run better than similarly priced steam engines.    

• Model train cars: Decide whether you want to start with a freight train or passenger train. You may buy preassembled cars or put them together from a kit, as offered by companies like Accurail, Athearn, or Life-like.     

• Model train track: Track with cast plastic roadbed is recommended, linking sections of track more securely and allowing for better electrical connections. Also make sure the rails are made of nickel silver for better conductivity. Look into Atlas track, Bachmann track, and Life-like track. 

• A transformer: These transformers or power packs are needed to provide your train and accessories with electricity. If you have many accessories, get a transformer that will deliver at least 18 volt-amps (VA) of electricity.    

• Scenery: The scenery you use depends on the setting of your railroad. Your railroad might run through an urban setting, the country, the mountains, or a combination of these. Often trees and shrubs are made out of lichen, and rock molds are used to create rocky outcroppings. Ground cover is used to create realistic-looking terrain. Tunnel portals mark the entrance and exit of tunnels. There are also countless model people and vehicles which can bring life to a set. Model train stations, signals, and bridges add more realism.

Find Model Trains on eBay

Find Model Trains on eBay

Once you know what type of model train you want, go to the Toys & Hobbies portal, click Model RR, Trains, and start searching for items on eBay.

• Categories: The Categories list on the left side of each page will help you narrow down your listings by item type. You'll find links for Z Scale, N Scale, HO Scale, OO Scale, and more. As you dig deeper into the site you'll also be able to narrow down your choice by brand.

• Keyword search: Search eBay listing titles for specific words. For example, if you want to find a daylight train, type "daylight train" (without quotation marks) into the Search box. Click "Search title and description" to expand your results. Visit eBay's Search Tips page for more tips on searching with keywords.

If you can't find exactly what you want, try shopping eBay Stores, tell the eBay Community what you want by creating a post on Want It Now, or save a search on My eBay and eBay will email you when a match becomes available.

Buy Model Trains With Confidence

Buy Model Trains With Confidence

Before making your purchase, make sure you know exactly what you're buying, research your seller, and understand how eBay and PayPal protect you.

Know your purchase

Carefully read the details in item listings.

• Figure delivery costs into your final price. If you spend a lot of money, make sure the seller will insure the item when it ships.

• If you want more information, ask by clicking the "Ask seller a question" link under the seller's profile.

• Always make sure to complete your transaction on eBay (with a bid, Buy It Now, or Best Offer). Transactions conducted outside of eBay are not covered by eBay protection programs.

• Never pay for your eBay item using instant cash wire transfer services through Western Union or MoneyGram. These payment methods are unsafe when paying someone you do not know.

Know your seller

Research your seller so you feel positive and secure about every transaction.

• What is the seller's Feedback rating? How many transactions have they completed? What percentage of positive responses do they have?

• What do buyers say in their Feedback? Did the seller receive praise?

• Most top eBay sellers operate like retail stores and have return policies. Do they offer a money-back guarantee? What are the terms and conditions?

Buyer protection

In the unlikely event that a problem arises during your transaction, eBay and PayPal are there for you.

• Pay safely with PayPal: PayPal enables you to pay without the seller ever seeing your bank account or credit card numbers. In fact, PayPal protects buyers 100% against unauthorized payments from their accounts. Plus, with PayPal Buyer Protection, your purchase can be covered up to $1,000.

• eBay Security & Resolution Center: Visit the Security & Resolution Center to learn how to protect your account and use eBay's quick and efficient resolution tools.