I'd say... Z is still struggling for acceptance. If a big HO/N manufacturer like Athearn (one less expensive than Kato, anyway ) recognized the importance of this scale - if they got behind Z and pushed - it could be mainstream in a couple years. What would you say?
I think 3' long North American style code 40 flextrack and matching #6 and #8 turnouts would really get the ball rolling. Robert
I should've mentioned that! Code 40 is the same scale size as Code 55 in N or Code 100 in HO; that is, oversize. But it's still the smallest size used in commercial track; it should be the standard. That is, unless it ever becomes practical to use the new Code 30 rail used by a very few N-scalers...
Yes, I have been reading a bit on the Nn3 group about code 30. Our flanges are .027" in Z, so that is about the limit that we could use, however I think nobody would be able to manufacture code 30 flextrack and turnouts due to the extreme tolerances. The only reason I think code 40 could be done is because Micro Engineering used to make code 40 N flex. -Robert
Anyone know where I can pick up some code 30 rail? I would like to build a few turnouts just for comparison. I am all for code 40 Z scale flex... It would have saved me a few 'minutes' while I lay those 14,000 ties... Sigh...
I think micro-trains is on the right track with the GP 35 and sectional roadbed track. But we still need good turnouts. We needs cars and trucks like CMW makes. We need resonable priced steam with power pickup from the tender and correct valve gear and side rods. We need a variety of 100-150 dollar range loco's that perform better than the micro-trains f-7. (which we just might be getting) We need more building kits to choose from that we can build and bash. These are just a few of the things that I personally would like to see. I have a feeling all of that would spur more growth.
We could really use an abundant supply of 1940's and 1950's automobiles and pickup trucke too! -Robert
How about a UP Gas Turbine, a UP Big Boy, a UP Challenger, a California Zephyr and the 20th Century Limited, (all by AZL). Then lots of structures from the Fifties and Sixties (Lasercut Wood and photo etched Brass) and of cours Automobiles and Pickup's in good quality.
Z scale needs more folk to get involved. You can accomplish this by offering lower cost beginner's sets. Get the people, get them modeling and the manufacturers will follow. Russ
That's what I said at first. The current Z manufacturers won't lower prices; that sort of thing doesn't happen. Somebody who already makes lower-priced equipment has to get into Z. P.S. I just thought of something - Z really needs structures like the Walthers Cornerstone series. Plastic kits for steel and paper mills... Z needs big industries to fulfill its potential.
Personally, I feel Z can benefit if just one more known manufacturer would enter the market. Marklin, MTL and AZL are all working hard to grow the scale, but if a Kato or Athern would get involved, it would be a big boost! Technically, Bowser is involved with Z. They do work for Pennzee, Father Nature, and now AZL. But, they offer no Z under their label. As for pricing, remember, you get what you pay for. Yes, lower pricing would be a boost, but if cheap locos do not work well, then it may be a bigger turn off to the scale. One of the huge benefits of Z is just how well the lcoos run. All the locos... I often hear comments from N and HO folks that they with their locos ran as well. MTL is really leading the pack in growing Z. With their new track system and GP35, this will be a big boost to the scale. Again, the GP35 is a smooth running, incredible loco. The price will be between $150-$200. It is quiet and an awesome runner. Much better then their F7. AZL is preparing to release a number of new locos and freight cars. What AZL is planning will start to fills the gaps in the most requested wish list of Z scalers. Again, look at pricing points of $200 - $250 for injection locos. I only hope that more folks will start to notice Z. It offers much, much more in the way of operations, long hauls, scenery, etc than the other scales. What other scale can you model the Tehaccapi loop and Horseshoe curve, all to scale, all in the same room! It is fun to think about... Rob Kluz
What does Z scale need! Heavy Trackside Industry is good. Realism is a must though! Yes, you can pack allot into a Z scene but it has to look real! MTL has set their flame at half speed with "Z" but seems they are still a little skeered to turn that flame into a blaze! AZL has lots coming, soon! I wanna see photos! Photos drive the saliva glands crazy with anticipation! We just need MORE "Z"! Tim
