Most Z layouts I have seen pictures of tend to be like N layouts and HO layouts: the object of the layout is to get some operation possibility in a modest space. I have a strange perspective in model railroading in that I like main line scenic passes that look prototypical. Even in N scale it is hard to set up something even half as vast as a prototypical scene without using 40" curve radii. Z scale could capture the subtle flowing nature of real trackage and prototypical train lengths in a normal sized room. So, Z scalers, got any speculation as to when Z scale will have more options for locomotives, rolling stock, track, etc.? I would switch to Z with no regrets if I could buy in Z what I already do in N scale for a similar price.
Most likely a SUpply and Demand issue. Since we don't find what we can in N & HO we tend not to buy much Z so they in turn don't make much Z. The good old Catch 22 problem. I too would buy more Z if they had more D&H items to purchase but that is a vary rare roadname in Z so it's hard to get excited about Z these days.
Actually there has been quite a bit of Z stuff becoming available the last couple of years. We have an active Z scaler here. Robert, (Pray59), who keeps really busy with his job. But maybe he'll see this. There is a ZBendtrack modular concept. And there is also even Z Scale Magazine. So it is growing. But too small for my eyes and ever shakier hands. Boxcab E50
Don't get me wrong, I like Z scales size as it does have it's place but so far this is my total D&H collection of Z Scale just becuase they just are not made like other scales so it's hard to build a layout without being good at scratch building which I'm not. Micro Trains#13503-2
I have been asked if I will make Z scale spine cars. I think they would be do-able, but wonder if the market volume would make it worthwhile?
I would buy about 10 spine cars if you made them. To give you an idea of what Z Scalers will buy... I made 40 Centerbeam car kits, and sent them to Chuck at FRTS one morning, and when I walked in the door after work the phone rang, and chuck had presold 50 more. I have sold a couple hundred. However the Z Scale NP caboose kit only sold 25 and NYC kit only sold about 20. These are all Craftsman Kits mind you, and anything ready to run should sell more. Also, I don't advertise because I'm as busy as I can stand with my day job, so I could never keep up with demand. Microtrains sold out of their first run of well cars in 2 days when they were released last summer. If you want to make the spine cars, be sure to post on the Yahoo z-scale list to fish for interest. I hope you make them, because the more Z Scale products available meand the more converts to Z. Everyone seems to like Z, but the lack of NA prototype models scares people into other scales. By next Christmas there will be several new models from AZL and Microtrains available, as well as a new NA track system. The Z Scale list is up to 1300 people now, so there is interest in Z.
Thanks for the encouragement Robert I am awaiting some Microtrains trucks so I can figure out height, etc. for truck mounts before I plan any masters. No-one over here appears to stock trucks, so I have some on back-order
Alan, I have a few extra unopened packages of Z-scale MTL roller bearing trucks. I would be more than willing to send you a set if this will help expeidite things. I have a good feeling you would do quite well in the Z scale market. Especially with the quality you produce! Contact me offline... eric@ericmenzel.com or eric@edmodels.com
The Z scale market is wide open. Maybe I should start up and produce SD40-2's, the standard 80s diesel that everybody loves.
Whatever locomotive you make in Z will sell, but the guy who makes GP's of any flavor starting with 7's and 9's will clean house. If you make a 44 tonner in Z, you will probably need to start with an initial run of 500 pieces, as such a tiny gem would sell out before people even heard they were available. Every new model released helps establish Z as a serious modelers scale. Z Scale... The last frontier in model trains, as it has all been done in the other scales already.
Robert- Isn't there a smaller scale? Something like 1:400? Just think of the possibilities if somebody perfected Zn2! You could build the entire Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes, or Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington, in a basement. Boxcab E50
Hmm, I'll keep an eye on the Z market when I get out of engineering school. I've been looking for a basement business plan for the coming years - something I could start on the side while holding a boring engineering job. First off, is there any alternative to the code 80 track you guys use? That size rail looks bad in N, and in Z it's just out of whack! (IMO) How about some nice # 10 turnouts, or some curved ones? There has to be a way to make the tooling and contract out the plastic injection moulding.
I'm using Code 40 rail... And I'm making #10 turnouts as well. Here is my 9' x 5' layout so far... I have alot more of the 14,400 ties yet to lay. I also have to finish up the 2 layer bench work so I can start mounting these sections. Then it's turnout placement, soldering the rail, airbrushing the track, ballast, etc, etc, etc...
So far I have one turnout made for my Nn3 layout. I plan on using Peco Z scale flex track and make my own turnouts. I hope mine just work and will not worry if they look kind of goofy at first. I just can't see paying the prices for Marklin and the other manufacturers.
Darren, I couldn't help but notice your are a D&H fan. I am not sure if you know of this Z beauty, but I though you might be interested: Also, a company, FR in Germany makes D&H 2 bay hoppers. Rob Kluz
