I have been disabled for six years. My four children/seven grandchilden decided what I needed was a Bachmann G Scale "Night Before Christmas" Train Set for therapy etc. First thoughts were negative but now I am intrigued especially when I happen to run across Garden railroading. Local Hobby Shop contacts are very negative toward Bachmann and advocate I should start over with LGR track. I need help. Is Bachmann junk? Must I limit my railroading to once around the Christmas tree? I won't bore you with details of disability but please be patient with me if I seem "dense" or stupid when you respond. I think I would really enjoy setting a train up in large back yard but can't afford to "cadillac" the job. Thanks, Wiley P.S. I also have never done messaging, so please forgive any lack of protocol.
HI Wiley, I don't have an answer but just wanted to welcome you to Trainboard. I too am disabled by polio which I got when I was a baby. I wear a full leg brace on my right and use crutches to get around with. Take Care Wiley and God Bless.
Wiley, I added you to my MSN messenger and my e-mail there is ladykendra1@hotmail.com so you know and my handle there is Lady Sunshine
For opening out, Bachmann is a very very good deal in G-scale...and very easy to add onto, locomotive and rolling stock wise. If you are going outdoors, I think you should be able to still use the powerpack, engine, and cars regardless of the track, although many opinions will probably suggest otherwise. One thing I like about my big hualer set is that the cars and tender have metal rims, making for a nice ride. Plastic in any size will lead to dirty track in time. And most people in G did start out with a Big Hauler, and though some are almost embarassed to admit it, they still run them on their pikes. Track is a always the issure. The Bachmann set provides enough for about a 20 ft circuit, which can be limiting. The track itself it a tubular metal on a plastic tie, and not compatible with anything else. Your options include LGB track as well as going for something like getting you own rail and cutting your own ties...if you are so inclined. To do so, you will need some lumber, a band saw or table saw, a railbender, a hammer, and some small rail spikes or nails. There are now firms that do this too...for a fee, of course. If you are staying indoors, I don't see an problems with using the Bachmann track, but do notice that the 4-6-0 does look a little funny on those tight curves. If your set has the 0-4-0, no problem wherever you go. If you do have room outside, something as simple as a 100 foot loop with wide curves might be all that you need...then again, something tells me the fire has been lit and I sense THE enthusiasm in your first post... Which is why I fully suggest a years subscription of "Garden Railways." In time you might find a better magazine, but for most this is a very good start. It might look a little intimidating at first, but just remember that many of them started like you have now. Ever have a question, we are listening!
Hi Wiley replied to your other post as well. Check www.mylargescale.com That's the best largescale forum I know. These guys just know all the answers.
Wiley: B-mann engines & cars are a nice cheap way to go for starting out in Largescale trains. I have 7 B-mann engines, and all but 3 of my cars are B-mann brand. The track that comes with B-mann sets will not do well outside. I would suggest using Aristo Craft track, it is a bit cheaper then LGB, and just as good . I have had my Aristo track outside for 5 years and no problems. No matter what brand of track you choose, be sure it is brass and you use a Electrical grease in the connections. Later on you can invest in a better power pack, when you start getting into the larger engines. My web page can be viewed at the following site Have fun, enjoy web page The DS&RG RR
