Barry Melek Electric Train Sets

Train Set Plastic

Getting Started with Lego Trains book review

More than just a guide, author McKee takes readers to the world of advanced LEGO building and the culture of model railroading. Sometimes the lingo takes a wacky turn: How could a model be built with SNOT? Connect the LEGO bricks in unorthodox ways to have Studs Not On Top, or SNOT, perfect for advanced constructions. What about the chapter on reefer? That's the refrigerated rail car model, the type of train car called a reefer by model builders and train buffs in the know.

Interviews with expert builders and a section on advanced track layouts are sure to inspire the master builder and budding train enthusiast alike. With this book, newbies and old pros all have something in common - a great book to help them grow with their hobby. As author McKee explains, "LEGO trains are the 'hub of the spoke,' so to speak. LEGO trains are what bond a LEGO universe together. Once you set up your first starter train set, you want more track. More track leads to more train cars. More cars leads to city. City leads to airports. Then space, then ..."

Background to the Book

Since the first steam engine ran in the early 1800s, kids and adults around the world have been fascinated. Trains, then as now, hold a special appeal to many, and over the decades thousands of train models and toys have been created. Model railroads built by kids and adults alike have a long and rich history.

The model railroad community consists of literally hundreds of thousands of fans of the railroad industry, especially those who enjoy building model railroads and running their trains throughout their house. Many readers may have had experience with HO or N scale trains, but they may have not had much experience with LEGO trains. Perhaps these fans have had experience with other LEGO kits and models, but with LEGO trains you have the chance to build scale model trains that actually run at your command!

Why Build Trains With LEGO Parts?

LEGO trains are built with only LEGO elements, so the train designs are close approximations of the real-life design. Because of this, LEGO trains require a whole new way of looking at the train design process.

In addition, with LEGO parts, you can use and reuse these parts over and over and over again, assuming of course you can bring yourself to take apart some of your creations. With other railroading materials, over time you usually have to continually purchase and repurchase expendable resources, such as paints, sheet plastic, hobby wood, and so forth.

Because of the re-useability and non-specific scale of LEGO trains, it is possible to build all kinds of creations and train layouts. One week, you can build 6-stud-wide hopper cars, and the next week 8-stud-wide circus trains.

Note that common LEGO train widths are 6 studs and 8 studs, though all official LEGO train models are 6 wide. A few builders even build 12 or 14 studs wide!

LEGO Trains Development

LEGO trains had their beginning in 1965, when LEGO released the first LEGO train set - a push locomotive that ran on popular LEGO wheels and did not include track. This locomotive was not powered, and in 1966, this push train was replaced with a powered version.

The original LEGO track was plastic and was held together with special 2x8 plates. The gauge, or distance between the rails, was six studs (1.5 inches, or 38 mm). The gauge was determined by the width of the wheels mounted on the ends of one 2x4 brick.

The powered trains have been going strong since 1966, and have included not one by three separate systems of train tracks and sets, each defined by their voltage requirements.

The first powered LEGO train was in the 4.5 volt range, and the set used the standard LEGO motor, with power coming from batteries in a car directly behind the locomotive (motor).

Building on the success of the 4.5 volt line, a 12 volt line was introduced shortly after. Like Lionel trains, the 12 volt system used a "third rail," a rail down the center of the track, which in this case was actually two smaller rails, to feed power to the motor, rather than using batteries. This third rail was available separately, which allowed older batter-powered layouts to be upgraded to the 12 volt system.

The 9 volt system was introduced in 1991 and is still in production today. This line introduced stability and ease of use to the LEGO train line. The 9 volt motors are a major leap forward because of the improved design and because the metal wheels on the specially designed train motors safely pull power directly from the metal rails. These wheels have minimal friction on the axle, rubber rims that help grip the rails, and a brilliant system of rubber bands that constantly push the metal wheels against the track for good contact.

The 9 volt line also introduced the new track system - straight, curved, crossover, and switch tracks that include both the two rails and the ties in one-piece track modules.

In author McKee's book, he focuses entirely on the 9 volt line.

Fundamentals

Author McKee starts out with a marvelous chapter on the fundamentals of building a LEGO train. The system is simple in design, and with his background, anyone will be up and running in no time.

He covers how to get one of your very own first LEGO train sets, and then describes the variety of LEGO train sets from which you can choose your first set. The LEGO company offers several great starter train sets, complete with all the components you need to create your first LEGO train layout. Everything you need to get started is in the box, so you will be up and running in no time.

He follows with a helpful chapter on the basics of building LEGO t rains, discussing and explaining how to use various LEGO train parts, including couplers, buffers, wheels, bogie plate, and train base plates.

Customized LEGO Trains You Will Build

Author McKee includes 3 chapters that thoroughly describe how to build three LEGO trains. These include a GP-38 locomotive, an old-style refrigerator car, and an intermodal container car. In each chapter, he explains the various types of LEGO train parts you will need, and the number of each of these pieces, and in an amazing array of 4-color, high-gloss diagrams, shows you each step of the design process. These layer by layer design steps follow the classic tradition of all LEGO building systems, with extensively detailed drawings of the parts used in each step with clear lines indicating where the parts are to be placed.

After obtaining the various LEGO train sets that contain the parts included in his three original designs, anyone can follow these easy instructions and build their very own working LEGO train. This fantastic one of a kind Train Guide is available while supplies last in our Catalogs and Books section of our website www.BrickTrainShop.com

About the Author

Son of 2, Brother of 1, Father of 6, Friend to all, Bother to Many.  Born and raised all over the world I now reside in Southern California near my true love LEGOLAND.  My wife and I operate a Lego Store in which we sell all things Lego.  Stop by our store anytime and drop us a line www.BrickTrainShop.com

CHH 964008 35 Pieces Wooden Train Set with Plastic StorageTub $33.6 35 Pieces wooden train set tracks made with beech wood colorful trains and accessories trains compatible with major brands including thomas and brio.

CHH 961010 80 Pieces Wooden Train Set $58.12 80 Pieces wooden train set plastic tub the perfect option for storage in between play. Made with the Best Quality Material with your child in mind. Top Quality Children's Item.

Thundering Rails Electric Train Set $197.48 This Thundering Rails Electric Train Set features over 175 pieces and a F7 diesel with working light. This train set features easy assembly and snap in bridge and pier set.Made by Walthers LifelikeModel: 433-9102Materials: Plastic and metalDimensions: 74 inches long x 38 inches wideAssembly requiredRecommended for ages 14 years and olderNo batteries requiredFeatures over 175 piecesTrain is a powered F7 diesel with working light, painted in the classic Santa Fe red and silver chromeIncludes six colorful freight carsUp and over bridge pier set, three trackside shanty kits and a working crossing gateFeatures four automobiles and three pickup trucks, 110 railroad, street and road signs and twelve utility polesUL listed power packInstruction manual included

Power Blaster Electric Train Set $220.01 This Power Blaster Electric Train Set features exclusive Power-loc track system with molded roadbed for fast and easy set up. This oval train set snaps together in minutes and comes with a ten piece snap-in bridge and pier set.Made by Walthers LifelikeModel: 433-2143Materials: Plastic and metalDimensions: 35 inches long x 19 inches wide x 14 inches deepAssembly requiredRecommended for ages 14 years and olderNo batteries requiredFeatures 47 inch long x 38 inch wide oval trackLife-like's exclusive Power-loc track system with molded roadbed for fast and easy set upClicks together in minutes for superior running anywhereIncludes ten piece snap-in bridge and pier set for elevated excitementUtility poles with transformers, call boxes and street lamps along with railroad, street and road signsUL power pack includedInstruction manual included

Rail Blaster Electic Train Set $189.26 This Rail Blaster Electric Train Set clicks together keeping track connected for superior running anywhere. This train set features an operating gravel dump station and comes with street and highway signs.Made by Walthers LifelikeModel: 433-8623Materials: Plastic and metalDimensions: 37 inches long x 21 inches wide x 14 inches deepAssembly requiredRecommended for ages 14 years and olderNo batteries requiredIncludes Lo-nose GP38-2 Locomotive with working headlightTrack makes 56 inch long x 38 inch wide ovalFeatures Life-like's exclusive Power-loc track system with molded roadbed for fast and easy set upClicks together keeping track connected for superior running anywhereOperating gravel dump station, unload the gondola car with the push of a leverRailroad, street and highway signs includedSnap together passenger and freight station building kit with American style cars and trucksUL power pack includedInstruction manual included

KidKraft 17822 Figure 8 Train Set $34 Figure 8 Train Set by KidKraft 17822. Our Figure 8 Train Set would make a great starter set for any young boy or girl who has never owned one before. It’s tons of fun pushing the train up and down the long, hilly track! Learning how the different track pieces connect even helps kids improve their fine motor skills.38 Total PiecesFirehouse and gas station with plastic molded roofsSpecificationThis item includes:KK-17822 Figure 8 Train SetPlease refer to the Specifications to determine what items are included since sometimes the image shows more or less items. If you are not sure, please contact us and our customer service will be glad to help.

Bachmann G Scale White Christmas Train Set $565.9 This Bachmann G Scale White Christmas Train Set electric train set includes power pack and speed control. This ready to run train set comes with steam locomotive with operating headlight and much more.Made by Bachmann TrainsModel: 90076Materials: Plastic and metalG Scale ready to run electric train set includes 4-6-0 steam locomotive with operating headlight, smoke and speed synchronized soundIncludes tender with wood load, combine car with operating door and lighted interior and coach car with lighted interiorOval track is 98 inches long x 51 inches wideFeatures power pack and speed controllerOne 1.9 volt battery required (not included)Recommended for ages 8 and older

KidKraft 17826 Bucket Top Mountain Train Set $49 Bucket Top Mountain Train Set by KidKraft 17826. Our Bucket Top Mountain Train Set lets kids explore an entire world without even leaving the house. Fun details like three-piece runway and molded mountain help this set look even more realistic! When playtime is finished, storing this train set is a breeze – everything comes packaged in a convenient plastic bucket.56 PiecesMolded mountain with two waterfalls and a lake – mountain doubles as the lid of the bucket the train set comes inFire truck and police station with molded plastic roofsDeluxe airport with helicopter, helipad, airplane and runwayOther fun accessoriesSpecificationThis item includes:KK-17826 Bucket Top Mountain Train SetPlease refer to the Specifications to determine what items are included since sometimes the image shows more or less items. If you are not sure, please contact us and our customer service will be glad to help.

Chad Valley 60 Piece Train Set. $9.99 This 60 piece train set from Chad Valley is perfect for little train fans with big imaginations. Including 21 wooden track and a plastic bridge, they can design their own unique tracks over and over again and have loads of adventures with roadblocks, vehicles and traffic lights. Includes a plastic bridge with track, 21 wooden tracks, 4 vehicles, 4 buildings, 4 people, 6 bushes and trees, 2 traffic lights and 12 road blocks and signs.For ages 3 years and over.WARNING(S):Not suitable for children under 3 years old.

KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Table Set $149.99 KidKraft Natural Train Table Set Your little one will be the conductor and creator of their own locomotive land with the KidKraft Natural Train Table Set. The table has a wide, generous surface to accomodate the 120 Piece Set, including town buildings, houses, and citizens. Compatible with Brio and Thomas trains, as well, the KidKraft Train Table is just the right size for a child to enjoy hours of endless fun. Three storage bins slide perfectly underneath the table for easy clean up, or use the 1 1/2 inch lip to keep things just as kids intended on using it. Everything your child needs for endless imaginative fun, order the KidKraft Natural Train Table Set today!120 Piece train setNatural wood constructionSturdy and durable1" lip to keep toys on the play tableWide, generous surfaceThree durable red plastic Type: Cars & Trucks Size/Dimensions: 48.75"L x 34.38"W x 16"H Material: WOOD Age: Child Gender: Male Item Count: 120 peice Color Mapping: Green

Bachmann N Scale Frontiersman Train Set $247.85 This Bachmann N Scale Frontiersman Train Set includes many old-time toy train cars. This electric train set comes with easy to assemble nickel silver E-z track.Made by Bachmann TrainsModel: 24006Materials: Plastic and metalIncludes American 4-4-0 steam locomotive and tender, old-time water tank car, old-time box car, old-time gondola car, old-time flat car and old-time bobber cabooseOval track is 34 inches wide x 24 inches long of nickel silver E-z trackAlso comes with power pack and speed controllerRecommended for ages 8 and older

Melissa & Doug Swivel Bridge 45-piece Train Set $109.56 Brand: Melissa & Doug Swivel Bridge Train SetModel: 70445-piece setIncludes ascending and descending track, track supports, a 3-car train, a covered bridge and a swivel bridgeTraffic gates automatically open and close on the swivel bridgeCompatible with popular wooden railway systemsMaterials: Solid wood, MDF, plastic, metal, magnet, paintDimensions: 22 inches high x 13 inches wide x 4.95 inches deepWeight: 6.8 poundsRecommended for ages 3 years and older

Plastic Train Whistle $1.98 A Noisemaker for Every Event! Pump up the volume at your event with this Train Whistle. A great way to spice up any party. 6 3/4" long and 1 1/4" wide. Assorted colors. Made of plastic. A noisemaker is an ideal party favor give a way for your next New Year's party or Mardi Gras event. Plus they also make a great prize for any carnival. Part of Favors, Toys, Gifts > Noisemakers > Best Sellers

Bachmann N Scale Explorer Train Set $186.29 This Bachmann N Scale Explorer Train Set includes easy to assemble E-z track that snaps together in no time. This electric train set features power pack and speed controller.Made by Bachmann TrainsModel: 24008Materials: Plastic and metalIncludes Powered EMD F9 diesel locomotive with operating headlightFeatures unpowered A unit F9 diesel locomotive, single dome tank car, refrigerator car, covered hopper car, plug door box car, flat car with containers and off-center cabooseOval track is 34 inches wide x 24 inches long of nickel silver E-z trackFeatures 12 telephone poles, 24 railroad and street signs, power pack and speed controllerRecommended for ages 8 and older

Bachmann G Scale Thomas and Friends Percy Large Train Set $480 This Bachmann G Scale Thomas and Friends Percy Large Train Set includes Percy the Small Engine and two troublesome truck train cars. This large G Scale train set features power pack and speed controller.Made by Bachmann TrainsModel: 90069Materials: Plastic and metalG ScaleReady to run electric train set includes Percy the Small Engine with moving eyesFeatures Troublesome Truck 1 and Troublesome Truck 2 engine carsOval track is 64 inches wide x 51 inches long when assembledComes with power pack and speed controllerRecommended for ages 8 and older

Bb Set Train Station $20.91 This bulletin board features train station 32 train cars and 11 train station accents. Write student names on the train cars and use them to create graphs or highlight student work. Or write words on the train cars and use them to make sentence train.

Accessory Train Set $19.99 Expand the play of our 100-pc train set with this additional accessory set: A 16-pc. TRACK SET with 10 straight tracks, 4 curved, and 2 switching tracks.

Push Train Set $1000 A LEGO® Education classic, this train set introduces your students to the world of train transportation and moving parts. The track can be configured many different ways to create a variety of settings to spark imaginations. For ages 2+.

Tomica Mega Station Hypercity Tomy Kids Train Set $40.95 Check out all the action at the Tomica Mega Station Set. Fully automated trains mimic the action of a bustling station. As the train pulls into the terminal, cars stop at the railroad crossing and wait for the train to pass. Once the train passes, traffic automatically resumes as usual. Kids can also switch to manual mode to take control of all the action. Experience the lights, sounds, and excitement as the Mega Station comes to life! Press the buttons to control when the train and cars can cross. The railroad crossing features real working sounds and lights. By the convenience store, press down on the button and launch your car out of the parking lot. Push the button on top of the convenience store and watch the doors slide open. Back at the Mega Station, the cars automatically move up the ramp and slide back down to the railroad crossing. There are even more cars you can place on top of the Mega Station's parking lot. Brand New Tomica Mega Station Hypercity Tommy Train Set 70575! Easy Assembly A Type: Trains Manufacturer Recommended Age: Fun For All Ages 4+ Color: Multi-Color Color Mapping: Blue Material: Plastic Gender: Unisex Age: Child

Train Set, 4Pcs Link Pl Assorted Ic(Pack Of 48) $118 4 pcs train set....

Bachmann G Scale White Christmas Large Train Set $484.9 This Bachmann G Scale White Christmas Large Train Set includes steam locomotive with operating headlight and many train cars. This electric train set runs on a G Scale track and comes with a power pack and speed controller.Made by Bachmann TrainsModel: 90037Materials: Plastic and metalG ScaleReady to run electric train set includes 4-6-0 steam locomotive with operating headlight, smoke and speed-synchronized soundFeatures tender with coal load, gondola car, bobber caboose and Santa figureOval track is 64 inches wide x 51 inches long when assembledIncludes power pack and speed controllerOne 1.9 Volt battery required (not included)Recommended for ages 8 and older

Bachmann HO Scale Santa Fe Flyer Train Set $127.48 This Bachmann HO Scale Santa Fe Flyer Train Set includes illustrated instruction manual, power pack and speed controller. This electric train set includes an EMD FT Diesel locomotive with an operating headlight.Made by Bachmann TrainsModel: 00647Materials: Plastic and metalHauling freight across the deserts, mountains, and cities of the American landscape is the Santa Fe FlyerPowered by a mighty Santa Fe FT diesel locomotive with its distinctive 'war bonnet' paint scheme, this sleek and powerful train deftly handles the ever-changing terrain of the Southwest United StatesReady to run train set includes EMD FT Diesel locomotive with operating headlight, open quad hopper, gondola and off-center cabooseSnap fit E-z track assembles to make a 36-inch circleIncludes eleven pieces of curved track and one curved plug-in terminal rerailerPower pack and speed controller includedIllustrated instruction manual includedRecommended for ages 8 and older