Z Scale Main Page

INTRODUCTION

Even though I'm building a G scale layout outdoors, I've also got the small scale bug. The goal here is operation closer to prototype, with longer track runs, more prototypical curves, etc.

I've observed modular layouts and I can see that the reliability, diversity of products, and DCC is all a reality now.

I've built a small demonstration layout by Noch, which is cute, but the curves and grades are tight. More of a curiosity than anything else.

I've started on my Z scale modules with the help of Don Fedjur. I would like to get a group together to run with. I want to build enough modules that I can entertain at home myself.

I've got a 1 car garage to myself, so I can set it up several modules that can exist semi-permanently. I will clear out the duplex garage to allow more modules for a get-together.

Here's a Micro-Trains GP35 pulling 47 cars:

New to Z? Some comments and helpful links

Other Manufacturers of Z scale rolling stock .

Track

Comments on Z scale Track in general.

Track cleaning - manual and electronic

A page showing Marklin track (and related) part numbers (updated 20 Jan 02) (I have updated a file originally from Brian Dormer and added more information and the components of the Marklin track sets. I removed the track plan pictures)

I'll be adding some pages with drawings of track configurations, i.e. how to lay out concentric curves, configurations for yard tracks, etc. (again originally from pix from Brian, but cleaned up with PhotoShop for readability), plus I'll link in the extension drawings, and DigiSteve is scanning some track plans from older Marklin catalogs. (updated 24 Aug 01)

here is a link to Garth & Dora's NN3 web site with a comparision of rail heights and other data for Marklin, MT, and Peco track

Superelevation
Use 0.026 steel guitar string right underneath outside rail - approximates 5-6 inches
For easments, use .008 or .013 under the ends of the ties, working to under the rail, then .026 under the ends of the ties, working towards directly under the rail.

Power and control

Seems like these motors should not get over 9 or 10 volts. I am intending to use DCC since my garden railway will make be buy the controllers.

There seems to be endless controversy over the motors heating from non-DC. From what I can gather, Old-style pulse power at higher speeds will overheat the motors. The MicroTrains F units have this warning: "WARNING: DO NOT use pulse power. It will cause the motor to overheat and will warp plastic shell. Operate only on 8 volts D.C. Higher voltage will cause damage".

The higher frequency AC used on DCC seems safe for all Z engines.

Rolling Stock

Marklin vs. MicroTrains. Who's better?
Well these are the 2 big guys for rolling stock and locomotives. I have decided to go with MicroTrains couplers (Kadee) because of how they look, and the delayed uncoupling. I hear that they are less reliable, but we'll see if they are reliable enough.

There is an ongoing controversy over whether the Marklin F units are better than the MicroTrains. One thing for sure, the MicroTrains stuff is scale proportioned, and the Marklin stuff has some strange dimensions. Things are clearer when you find out that Marklin makes a limited number of locomotive chassis, and they "fit" a number of different diesels to the same chassis. If you don't know this, Marklin is German, and they have mostly german prototypes.

here's a link to a site with pictures of Marklin rolling stock by part number

Micro Trains - improvements and repairs

here is a link to Harald's "freudenreich Geinwerktechnik" page on how to modify Marklin cars to put the trucks the right distance from the ends of the cars, it really improves their looks. I just hope someone would sell the little bolster pins!

Small layouts

I built a Noch layout. You can buy the entire layout built up, or a scenicked base designed for Marklin sectional track with a parts "shopping" list. I have info on where you can buy one.