OK, you Z Scale gurus out there, I need some help! One of the gals I work with overnight asked me if I might be interested in some Z Scale trains she had inherited from her Dad. Or if I knew anyone that might be interested. I said I might be. Not sure if anyone else would be though. Just recieved the box of stuff last night. So, this was the first chance I had to actually see what she had. Now, after a quick check, I'm definately interested in the collection! But, I'd like to find out more about the items shown. When made etc..... Mini Club set? Have 2. Southern Crescent 2-8-2 Selection of cars Unassembled/unopened kits All equipment looks to have been barely run, if at all! Collection also includes a box of curve track, terminal track, a pair of turnouts and 2-3 misc track pieces. I'm also trying to find more info, as I know nothing about Z Scale either! So, any help and/or information is much appreciated. Thanks.
Keith you received some nice stuff to get you started in Z. However if you want to model prototypical American style trains and track, Micro Trains and American Z line (AZL) are some of the best out there and are more readily available compared to some other manufactures, although there are some other great things out there. Once you buy Micro Trains or AZL products you'll probably want to stick with them instead of Marklin (they're addictive). Marklin has toy train like couplers and are not always prototypical. The only Marklin set I have now is the one that got me started in Z. But if you're just getting started this is a great way to do it. Joe
Since I have enough odd stuff, witht the funky couplers, I'll probably stick with it. I kind of like the Z scale equipment, funky couplers or not! But, I'm only looking for info for right now. I'm checking this stuff out first. An actual deal for it has NOT been worked out yet. Tonight maybe. Gotta see what Chris wants for it, or what she's looking to get for it! Once that's done, then I can think about getting involved deeper! Maybe I outta sell the N Scale, and go Z Scale instead........... Nah......Better not, Mom would probably kill me, the do it again, just because!
Hi Keith You shouldn't use those controler of the starter box. It doesn't work very well. Every other controler will better work than this.
True. I use this original controller to power accessories, lights, etc. A better controller for the trains will help their performance, too.
Have a NIB MRC Teck 4 280 dual cab pack, if that'll work. Was gonna use it on something else. Haven't done anything to need it, yet. I'm also noticing, insulated joiners in BOTH rails? Can common rail wiring be used without blowing something up? Or for that matter, can the usual wiring method(s) be used - That is, DPDT switches etc...? Thanks for the info so far!
The little diesel hydraulic switcher set was the first Z item I ever bought. The only thing that you might wast to be aware of (with all of Marklins older locs) is that Marklin used to use some kind of lubricant that hardened over time. If the locos haven't beern run, make sure the drivers move freely before applying power. It isn't too difficult to clean the locs if this is the case, but applying power to a siezed loc will fry it pretty quick.
I got one of those controllers with the Vacation Fun set, and it only has Forward, Stop, and Reverse, at full blast! That's why they call it a "Fun" set!
Keith, you do know that you have a mix of European and American cars. If you want to know about price, I have seen the pacific go for around $100, and it has a three pole motor. I prefer to have engines with 5 pole motor, but a three pole motor is not bad. As far as the cars are concern, I usually pay $10 for used cars, but the baggage cars go for a little more. Z scale engines are very sensitive to too much voltage, so I dont suggest you use the MRC. If you applied too much voltage, it can fry your motor. MTL sells a MRC with a mechanical voltage limiter. Ztech makes a very nice hand held controllers. You have the choice of battery or ac power.
Yes, aware that I had a mix of cars. This is what I was given. As mentioned, Chis' Dad had it, she inherited it and knows nothing about it. Had no idea what her Dads intentions were with this stuff! And since she knew I was into model trains, she asked me if I was interested in it, or if anything, if I could help dispose of the equipment. Guess I'll have to look into a new control.Looks like a run to Caboose Hobbies is taking shape for this weekend! Thanks again.
Keith, to summarize: Your MRC power pack will work, just keep the voltage below 8 volts (at which these locos should be moving quite well). Marklin's power packs go up to at least 12 volts (both older blue and white ones) so don't sweat it. They just run obviously at "Lionel" speed. As for the lube, even if the wheels appear to be "free", moving even a little, freely, the upper gears in the plastic and the motor itself can still be nearly seized from the ancient oil. If it doesn't seem to run at all or is very slow, you'll have a few seconds or more to decide to kill the power. Easy to relube but clean first. And only the tiniest amount of lube is needed. Use a pin or needle tip to form the drop you need. If it tries to run (can go somewhat fast or wheels at least move quickly for very short moments), then it is likely just dirty wheels. Get out the Isopropal Alcohol and a cotton swab. If you want some track with ballast on it insted of the plain tack only, you can by a start oval set from Micro Trains Line (MTL) for about $16. Search on ebay for "Z scale" under "Toys and Hobbies" Enjoy.
I thought the Tech 4 was one of the pulse-power power packs that were not good for z. Not sure though. There are some "aftermarket" controllers that are nice. ZThek (www.ZThek.com) and Joerger (www.Ztrack.com). randy
Just try it. if the motors don't run warm, as compared to a Marklin power pack, then they are fine. If they do run warm, one needs to try other locos to make sure that it is not just an older loco with dried up lube. I just ordered one of the MRC Power Command 9500s 'cause I found it for $40 new and I want to see if I can modify it down from the max of 18 V. Since it is a "pulse power" at lower volts, I should be able to modify the circuit for either less pulse volts but I really want to adapt the top end down to 10V
I have one of the MRC pulse power packs, and Marklin locos do run hotter, much hotter. When I run them DCC, or with the white Marklin power pack, they run much cooler, so the pulses are doing something.
