Model Railway Trains - Locomotives

The locomotive, the traction engine, the power plant. All these names are in use to describe what must be the heart of the model railway layout. This is the unit that hauls the rolling stock and probably sets the theme for most model railways.

STEAM

The locomotive that raises the most passion is the steam locomotive. Invented in the UK in the early 1800's it quickly established itself as the prime mover of goods on the world's railways. The steam locomotive reigned supreme until the 1930's when it was gradually superceded by the diesel engine and later by the electric locomotive. Sadly the steam locomotive is a rare sight today but model manufacturers are plentiful and the models produced are varied in type and scale. The available reproductions of the originals are amazing in detail and are a testiment to the affection held for the passing era of the steam locomotive. There are many manufacturers specialising in various models and scales. Among these include:- Fleischmann, Bachmann, Märklin and Peco

One of the foremost names in the model railway world is that of Hornby. Here is shown Hornby's model railway locomotive, the famous Flying Scotsman.  ‘Flying Scotsman’ was built in 1923 and went on to become the most famous steam locomotive in the world – setting many records along the way. During its service career it covered over 2,000,000 miles and travelled non-stop from London to Edinburgh in 8 hours.

An 'OO' gauge real live model railway steam locomotive, a revolutionary model with extraordinary detail. Distilled water is stored in the tender. This water is heated by a small immersion and produces the steam necessary to power this superb miniture replica. Perfectly safe, low voltage current is fed remotely via the track which feeds the immersion heater. Relive those memories from the past with this model.

Here we see another 'OO' gauge model steam locomotive by Hornby. The R2339 LNER 4-6-2 A4 Class Mallard Steam Locomotive. To quote one satisfied buyer "The train was bought as a present and has provided much joy. As a product it is excellent and the attention to detail is awesome." The model is 291mm in length with LNER Garter Blue Livery.

DIESEL / ELECTRIC

Among the U.S. railroads during the 1940's the diesel engined locomotive became prevelent. This process continued across Europe, after the second world war, until very few steam locomotives were operating by the end of the 60's. The diesel engined locomotive held many advantages over that of the steam engine. Economically it was way ahead in terms of maintenance costs. Whereby the steam locomotive required up to 6 days in every month for workshop repairs and maintenance, the diesel version required only one. Less maintenance hours meant less labour hours and therefore less manpower. Major repairs on steam locos., requiring the removal of major items such as boilers meant additional lengthy downtimes and many skill types. Diesel engine "in between" servicing routines could extend for many hundreds of hours.

Here's a book with rave reviews. If you are looking for a reference book of U.S. diesel and electric locomotives, with 300 stunning images, then this one is a must. A quote from one happy buyer:- 
"a very impressive book with a ton of information in photos and text. Plenty of specs about various models, too." and another:- "One of the very best and clearest guides available ....."