MODEL RAILWAYS, THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DESIGNING, BUILDING AND OPERATING A MODEL RAILWAY

Cyril J Freezer

BCA 1991

This practical, step-by-step guide will help the budding model railway enthusiast to design and create his own miniature world. Cyril Freezer, editor for 25 years of one of the leading railway modeller’s journals, shows how to transform the simplest of children’s train sets into a fully operational layout, complete with architecture and scenery built from scratch.

The pros and cons of the different scales and gauges are discussed, as well as how they relate to the full-sized versions around the world, from the sugar-cane railways of Fiji to the narrow-gauge Alpine lines in Switzerland. The author goes on to outline a variety of schemes for effectively adapting a bedroom, attic or garage to best accommodate the chosen layout. Using simple tools and basic carpentry skills, easily stored platforms can be erected which make the most of the available space.

Once the baseboards are in place, the modeller must get to grips with the layout of the track, and the author unravels the intricacies of sleepers (ties), points, loops, turn-outs and gradients with the aid of clear colour diagrams. Furthermore, step-by-step guidance on the fundamentals of wiring and control panels are designed with the novice electrician in mind.

Both the book and the dust jacket are in good condition. A nice item for the modelling enthusiast.