| What size are the trains
and track?
Most equipment operated on our track is one-eighth the size of prototype railroad equipment. The rails are spaced 7-1/2 inches apart. This means the trains are a comfortable size to ride on, but not too big to transport. The engines weigh anywhere from 100 to 2000 pounds, and can pull from one to 50+ people, depending on size. How many clubs are out there? It is hard to put a number on
how many clubs exist. There are many club tracks and even more private
tracks scattered around the United States.
Where can you get this type of equipment? Several vendors manufacture ready-to-run locomotives and cars. Individual components may also be purchased separately. Many people build some or all of their equipment themselves. Check the links page for more links to manufactures and information site for more info. Do I have to own any equipment to attend a MSLS meet? Not at all. Our club is devoted
to the enjoyment of live steam. We welcome everyone out to the meet to
learn about and enjoy Live Steamers in action.
I've heard these trains are really expensive! Is that true? Like in any hobby, there are many options when it comes to equipment. Some engines can cost almost $20,000 while others only a few hundred. It is not necessary to spend all your money to have a beautiful train. Many people have built their engine from scratch and fabricate their own cars and save thousands while others buy ready to run engines and cars from vendors. There are several options when it comes to getting into this hobby. If you are interested in buying your own engine or cars, the best advice is to ask around and see what people recommend. How do the steam locomotives operate? In almost all cases, they operate
just like real locomotives. Coal, oil, or LP gas is burned in a firebox
and used to heat water to the boiling point. The resulting steam is sent
to cylinders and used to drive pistons connected to the drive wheels. These
locomotives are quite powerful and sound like what they are: a miniature
version of the real thing.
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