Z Scale Trains

Starter sets are a good way to get started with Z-scale model trains. Starter sets generally have everything you need to begin running a train: engine, cars, track, power source and controller. As often times a starter set is something of a "loss leader" to get customers into the hobby, starter sets are usually an exceptional value with a price less than the sum of their contents if purchased separately. Also, there are often exceptional prices for starter sets on eBay (just watch the shipping charges), so please do take a look at the eBay selections listed below -- then scroll down to read about the types of z-scale track.

This site has some good deals on starter sets:

When considering track for your Z scale layout, you have 2 basic choices: Marklin track or Micro-Trains track.

Marklin track: Marklin Z-scale track is "traditional" track without a plastic roadbed attached. While this type of track is not well-suited for use on carpeted surfaces, it is generally preferred for layouts -- where modelers often use a more realistic aggregate for the road bed.

Micro-Trains track: Micro-Trains makes track called, appropriately enough, Micro-Track. This track comes with a plastic "road bed" that is convenient for running on carpeted surfaces -- where the open spaces of traditional "bed-less" track can allow carpet to interfere with the proper functioning of your locomotive. So, it's more convenient for those who set up a train on their carpeted floor for a weekend, but (as noted above) not as favored for dedicated layouts.

Marklin Z Scale, which is sometimes referred to as Marklin Mini Club, is where Z scale originated. I admit being somewhat partial to Marklin trains. One thing you can be sure of with Marklin is that small size does not mean that you are giving up quality. Marklin originated z-scale electric trains, and their German (DB) BR89 0-6-0 model is the smallest electric locomotive that is commercially available -- it's also the loco that comes with most of the less expensive starter sets.

Those sets generally come with the loco, 1 freight car, a small oval of track, and a controller/power source that runs off of a 9 volt battery. While the battery operated sets are fun and can be set up anywhere (most come in a compact case), control is limited to going full speed in either direction. This, of course, makes coupling something best done by hand. Sets that come with a battery controler are completely compatable with the plug-in transformers for z-scale, so you can start with these and add transformers and more track later.

The next step up in Marklin Z starter sets (with sets such as item no. 81562) includes a bigger steam engine and more freight cars -- and, most importantly, a plug-in transformer. With the transformer, you can run the train at variable speeds and couple cars the "right" way. You can also appreciate the Marklin quality by seeing how well the locos run at slower speeds. Going up in price, there are more options -- ranging from deluxe starter sets with electric turnouts to a set that is a ready-to-run layout in a briefcase.

For more information on Marklin trains, and some great deals, please visit:

Micro-Trains Line, also referred to as MTL, is also a leading manufacturer of Z-scale trains. MTL produces z scale model trains based on U.S. prototypes (real-world trains). MTL only produces diesel locomotives for Z scale, so if you want a steam locomotive, you will need to stick with Marklin. MTL locomotives can be purchased with either MTL Magne-Matic couplers or Marklin couplers. MTL produces some interesting starter sets with everything you need to get started. MTL also produces a great variety of freight cars, which also come with either Magne-Matic or Marklin couplers.

German model maker Noch produces several interesting items for Z scale trains. Noch products range from ready-to-run briefcase layouts like the one above to pre-formed layouts (with geographical features formed, but you add your own rails, trees and buildings) as pictured below. If you're planning a Z scale layout, it would be worth your while to look at the offerings by Noch before you take the leap!