[Dean T]

O scale Info

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I have this idea to put up an "O" scale train around my lanai (back porch for you up north, I'm in Florida).

My layout will start as a 20' X 10' oval which circles the top of the room. I have visions of busting through the brick, forming tunnnels and expanding in the future but this is where I am starting.

My first thought was Lionel. Maybe this is a joke to you oldtimers, I don't know but I am smart enough to ask advice from those with experience.

What brand of "O" scale would you consider to be the best for a newbie?
While cost is somewhat of a concern, I'm looking for good stuff at middle of the road prices.

Also, what is a good "road" material to use for this type application. Plywood? Boards?

Thanks in advance for any inputs.

 

[T-Man]

Classic not a joke

Hi Dean T
It is true, O scale Modelers scoff at Lionel. Then, they bicker over a thousanth of an inch when discussion trucks, I have seen the posts. One individual posted 20 rules to his definition of the hobby. I broke 18. That's why I joined here. You obviously want to start out fresh. Shop around, Ebay o scale will be entertaining. I go for the postwar stuff mostly. I don't get excited over new. I am slowly working into electronic's that I can build myself.
You will have to settle on a type of track and how to power it. DCC is the IN thing. Just start to read and ask more questions we love em. In the fall check for train shows. Florida is a train paradise. Check craigslist, who knows you may find a table already built.
Being on a porch it sound like weather may be a consideration. A high circular track doesn't sound too painful.
It sounds like fun.

 

[Boston&Maine]

Welcome to the forum Dean T!

I am also an O scale modeler... Personally I buy Lionel "Standard O" trains along with MTH "Premier Line" trains, both are true 1:48 scale... Both are also on the high end of the scale for those two companies, so that is probably not what you are looking for...

Lionel also makes "traditional" O scale cars... They are a bit smaller in size, have a little less detail, and are subsequently cheaper... MTH has two more O scale lines, Railking and Rugged Rails... The Railking line is probably equal to Lionel's "traditional" line, then the Rugges Rails line is even more basic and a little cheaper...

Like T-Man said though, check out the postwar (post 1945) Lionel items on eBay... You can find a lot of good deals on there, for example a piece of rolling stock for $5.00 plus shipping... This would also be a good option since your layout will be outdoors and may be exposed to the elements...

 

[Sigma40]

I would like to see the 20 rules.

 

[T-Man]

Taking it seriously. To the extreme?

Sigma, the forum has done a smart thing. Only members can read the posts. The gentlemen involved were true to their hobby. Precision was everything. I thought it odd that they conferred on a public forum it would seem more appropiate that they formed a private group. One rule was owning anything Lionel. Another pertained to the use of a caboose. I'll post the particulars to you since I have no intent on joining.