How to fix a model train

[Simpo Two]

I now have a nice model of the Occre 'Adler', a case to put it in, and with input form here, nice-looking track as well.

The only problem now is that if you move the case, the train rolls backwards and forwards...

How do you fix a model train to the track? I can only think of a bit of superglue on each wheel (could get messy), or chocks... neither of which appeal.

[steveo3002]

could you put thin wire around an axle and out through a hole in the base tied up tightly?

[spitfire-ian]

A bit of fishing line tied through the wheel and track?

[Panamax]

You don't need to fix it to the track - you just need to stop the wheels turning. Easy and invisible fix with needle and thread.

[Collectingbrass]

Chocks would be prototypical...

As others have said, I would tie the axles down with fishing wire.

[Simpo Two]

Sorry for the delay, I must have forgotten to tick the 'replies' box.

I'd prefer it properly fixed as the case is quite small and if tipped the train could still slide even with the wheels locked.

Tying to the track would be more visible than a screw straight up from underneath, between a wheel pair so it's not noticeable from the side. The only snag is that the lowest (ie best) part of the train has a metal sheet on it so would be a challenge to drill neatly upside down...

[Regbuser]

Drill and pin wheel flange into side of track rail?

[Simpo Two]

Regbuser said:

Drill and pin wheel flange into side of track rail?

I'm not much good at drilling tiny holes in steel...

After weighing up all options I think the best and least visible one is to place the train in the exact position, mark where the three main wheels are on the rear side, then remove, add a tiny blob of superglue to the track for each wheel, and carefully replace the train. Whilst the contact area is small it should be adequately strong, and virtually invisible.

ETA: Superglue works perfectly. Train is invisibly stuck!

Edited by Simpo Two on Thursday 7th April 15:51

[Collectingbrass]

Just seen this on Twitter

https://twitter.com/HistorianBlood/status/15409874...

How did the model turn out?

[dontlookdown]

It's the Titfield Thunderbolt.

Stop it William, we're the staff;)

[Simpo Two]

Collectingbrass said:

Just seen this on Twitter

https://twitter.com/HistorianBlood/status/15409874...

How did the model turn out?

That's the one! It came out very well (if I say so myself).



It was a refreshing change to make something that wasn't a boat, and from a different manufacturer. Lots of castings and metal, and superglue instead of PVA. I tweaked the colour scheme a bit as I really liked the antique detail on the brass sheet so left it unpainted.

The track took some original thought but I'm very pleased with the result - the gloss black acrylic base came with the case but I added MDF underneath and wooden moulding around sprayed satin black. The sleepers are utile (mahogany) stained down a bit.

[Collectingbrass]

Looks fantastic!

[808 Estate]