• Discover Model Trains

• Select Your Model Train Scale

• Put Together a Model Train Set

• Find Model Trains on eBay Singapore

• Buy Model Trains With Confidence

• Need More Help?

• Legal Disclaimer

Discover Model Trains

Discover Model Trains

Manufacturers aim towards creating accurate and realistic model trains. The first model trains were powered by wind-up clockwork, or steam engines. It was only in the late 19th century that the first electric model trains began appearing.

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.

Although toy trains look less realistic than model trains, they still 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.

The interactive aspect of trains makes toy trains a wonderful choice for young children. Children from ages of 4 and 6 may be introduced to wooden train sets that really spark the imagination. Children 8 years of age and older may be introduced to HO scale electric trains, or G scale electric trains under the guidance of an adult. Remember to 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

The "scale" of a model train refers to its size, compared to the real thing. For example, a locomotive scale of 1:22.5 is 22.5 times smaller than a life-size locomotive. The "right scale" is going to be one that fits your space, budget and personal preference.

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

Some of the different scales used in model railroading include:

• G scale (1:22.5) model railroad trains: G scale trains are for indoor use, but are especially suited for garden trains. LGB makes detailed, sturdy trains that are able to withstand the elements. Bachmann is another major manufacturer in this scale.

• O scale (1:48) model railroad trains: O scale trains are very popular toy trains and can be easily handled by children.

• HO scale (1:87) model railroad trains: HO scale trains, are one of the most popular scales of model trains. There are countless types of trains that also have a large selection of building structures, scenery and people available as well. HO trains are generally highly detailed and very good value. An HO layout requires a moderate amount of space. Popular makers include Lima, Hornby, Marklin, Bachmann, Athearn, and Fleishmann.

• N scale (1:160) model railroad trains: N scale trains are another popular scale and are the second smallest after Z scale. These trains are great for hobbyists who want to run long trains or keep the focus on the scenery. The cost of N equipment is slightly more than HO scale. Bachmann and Atlas are both well-known brands that makes N scale trains.

• Z scale (1:220) model railroad trains: Z scale trains are a good choice for people with limited space. These trains are tiny and also highly detailed.    

"Gauge" refers to the distance between the rails. Model trains 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 and structures can either be bought preassembled or made from kits. To construct a model train set, you'll need:

• A model train engine: Buy the highest-quality engine that you can. If you buy a diesel engine, make sure it has all-wheel electrical pickup. Diesel engines are affordable and often run better than similarly priced steam engines.    

• Model train cars: Decide between a freight train or passenger train. You can choose to buy preassembled cars or put them together from a kit.

• Model train track: Track with cast plastic roadbed, is good for linking sections of track more securely and allowing for better electrical connections. Ensure the rails are made of nickel silver as well for better conductivity.

• A transformer: 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 will depend on the setting of your railroad. Your railroad might run through the country, the mountains, an urban setting, or a combination of these. You'll often find that trees and shrubs are made out of lichen, and rock moulds are used to create rocky outcroppings. Ground cover is also used to create realistic-looking terrain. Besides scenery, there is also model people a nd vehicles that can bring a set to life. Model train stations, signals, and bridges also contribute to more realism.

Find Model Trains on eBay Singapore

Find Model Trains on eBay Singapore

Once you know what type of model train you want, go to the Toys & Hobbies portal, click Die Cast, Toy Vehicles, and start searching for items on eBay Singapore.

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

If you can't find exactly what you want, try shopping eBay Stores, or saving a search on My eBay and eBay Singapore 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 Singapore 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 is sent.

• 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 Singapore (with a bid or Buy It Now). Transactions conducted outside of eBay Singapore are not covered by eBay Singapore protection programmes.

• Never pay for your eBay Singapore 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 Singapore 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 Singapore 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 unauthorised payments from their accounts. Plus, with PayPal Buyer Protection, your purchase can be covered up to US$1,000.

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

Need More Help?

Need More Help?

Visit our help pages or start a thread on one of our Community Discussion Boards - If you have a quick question that needs answering, try posting it on our community Answer Centre - there's bound to be a seasoned eBay Singapore veteran with just the information you're looking for!

Legal Disclaimer

Legal Disclaimer

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