Things i dislike about N gauge| 1 year review
A short video explaining the slightly annoying things about n gauge. I hope i didnt come across too harsh as a whole i love n , i cant see myself changing anytime soon.
In short, the models are beautiful. But due to their size can be fragile. Im reluctant to let my young child "play" with them.
I find building things difficult. Because everything is so small.
For some reason i find the track and wheels need cleaning more frequently. For someone who doesn't have much free time, this eats in to my modelling time.
We feel left behind at times. N is a popular gauge but it isnt as big as 00.
Despite the size of n gauge. It doesnt mean we get to pay half the price.
There will be a part 2 to this video explain what i do love about n gauge
Please consider viewing the next video. Why i love N gauge here
• Things i LOVE about N ...
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Interesting video. I was a OO modeller in my teens and early 20's but switched to N when I returned to the hobby around 15 yrs ago. Main reason is to be able to run prototypical length modern image trains. N gauge certainly ticks that box. As for track - the more often you run trains the less track cleaning is required. Leave the trains for a week of no running and you'll need to track clean - this is no different to any other scale. As for the range of models available - agree that OO has more to offer. That said there is still an excellent range out there - which is ever expanding. Indeed the quality of models now produced in N is on a par with OO. Happy modelling.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Thank you for your comment. If i could convince er in doors to have our spare room soley for a layout i would defiantly go 00. But right now thats not possible so N gauge gives me that option of running longer trains whilst using 3-4th radius as a minimum. I too returned to the hobby. 00 dominates and it was so easy to get sucked into it at first. But since starting N im amazed how many locos i could buy new that are able to fit into my era and location makes me happy and motivated to keep going. I felt left behind at times with 00 as i could justify the money for a "modern tech" super detailed loco for my size layout but in N its affordable. The quality of stock is fantastic which makes it all the better. I'm defiantly going to try and run trains as regularly as i can to help with the running issue. Thank you again.
When it comes to cleaning the track I have a Locomotive running with a heavier wagon and underneath the wagon is a cleaning pad which is also used for cleaning glasses. No chemicals or alcohol involved. It helps you also need to make sure all the wheels are cleaned. And the best way is to keep running trains
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Thank you! I have thought about this option. Do you get many derailments with running the wagon over points? I will try and run trains regular as everyone is suggesting.
@HHExpress
7 ай бұрын
@@LewisLocos I have No derailments with that the ones I use are from Noch 60158. When done I scrape the tissue off put double sided tape on it and put microfiber tissue on them.
I have put away my oo gauge, not got rid of it yet, and am having a dabble in Hornby TT120. For me it seems to be the Golddy Locks scale, not to big, not to small. Only downside at the moment is cost, as there are few second hand item to be found and if you do find some the price is almost as much as buying new. But you can fit a lot of layout in a small space. TT120
@AliasMrHackenbacker
7 ай бұрын
I've seriously considered TT120 as I'm finding N more of a challenge these days, but until TT has established itself with more variety and other manufacturers( not just locomotives, rolling stock etc) then I shall carry on watching from the sidelines.OO has a big advantage that it has been on the market for over 50 years and there is a very healthy used market available to keep costs down but it's obvious drawback is the size needed and this is where TT and N have the advantage.
The worst thing about N Gauge from a Japanese train enthusiast's perspective is that it's N Gauge not N Scale! Ordinary Japanese trains have standard gauge bodies running on narrow gauge bogies on narrow gauge track and bullet trains have wide gauge bodies running on standard gauge bogies on standard gauge track but both run on the same track in railway modelling, with the ordinary model trains narrow gauge bogies altered to standard gauge bogies and the bullet trains have the wide gauge bodies altered to standard gauge bodies to fit on double track in particular. The only physically correct model trains are the mini-shinkansen which are standard gauge bodies on standard gauge bogies.
It's a very good point on the availability. In N gauge we've only really got just 2 manufacturers in British N, Farish or Dapol... And rarely do they directly compete with eachother on a specific model, for class 37s and 47s, only Farish make them right now, if you want 33s or 43s, only Dapol make them right now... Both manufacturers have their monopolies in their corners of the market while avoiding directly competing with eachother as much as possible. We get none of the advantages of manufacturer competition in N gauge...
I have a compact N layout with numerous points. We all need to clean our layouts to ensure good DCC running. I use either a Peco track rubber which works well, or iso-propyl alcohol in a CMX brass track cleaning tanker, which I can haul with a loco. Don't use WD-40. But what I have noticed are these observations: The track that is open for viewing gets dirty quite quickly, whereas the track that is covered up by tunneling almost never gets dirty. This shows that the majority of dirt descends from the air onto the exposed track. Secondly, Setrack and Insulfrog points relying on blade contact fail frequently after 12 months due to dirt. Fishplates too become corroded leading to increased electrical resistance and lower track voltages. The solution for ALL Setrack points on DCC is to solder contact wires between the frog area and the side rails on each side so that current is available either side of the frog no matter whether the blade contact is good or poor. Even better is to switch to Unifrog points, which are fantastic, but limited to medium radius only in N. The frog polarity can be switched with the point motor. The number of fishplates can be reduced by using flexible track. Otherwise, every time you disassemble the track, replace ALL the fishplates with new ones even tough they look OK. Keep the loco wheels clean with iso-propyl alcohol and a cotton bud. Only use locomotives with a pickup at each end. Only use 0-6-0 models with a Stay Alive fitted. (See Delticnapierdcc on KZread for an 0-6-0 with Stay Alive crossing a sheet of paper. Good luck Kite
My N Gauge layout is in my garage in Humid Australia. I have the issue of the track oxidising and use a Peco rubber on it to buff it up. Regular use helps avoid this. Happy Modelling.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
I think this is my problem. I can run it regularly and then not touch it for at least a month. Thank you for your tip. Happy Modelling!
Some very valid observations, you definitely should avoid handling the loco's where ever possible, a fiddle yard or similar is required if you are having a fleet. For me track cleaning has been an issue particularly that sometimes i would not run the layout for months at a time. I used the DCC concepts rubber but i noticed that was filthy and needed a wash but more recently using 100% isopropyl followed by a clean cloth and vacuum, recently I have been experimenting with a piece of cork. Regular running definitely helps. I am also not sure how temperature affects the oxidising process because it's warm here at the moment. I also noticed all my coaches and wagon wheels had dirt that was crusted so all my stock has been cleaned with cotton buds trimmed square dipped in isopropyl, the dirt was amazing and now they run better and I''m sure are better over points etc. I would also say if modelling in N you need the basic tools and know how to remove bogies and clean wheels and contacts removing fluff etc. I also think the loco's are getting better and will not be long before we see a chip with stay alive, just 3 seconds would prevent most stalling issues. Having said all that i wanted full length trains and big run, in 00 the layout would be half the size.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
I didnt want a layout to dominate my spare room as i need it for other purposes at the moment. So N gauge was just ideal for me to be able to have "decent" length trains running through a mainline setting. My next layout will be bigger and will defiantly have a fiddle yard or a tmd area to store stock. I think the main issue for me is that i can go at least a month without running a train and that seems to affect running. Your cork idea sounds good i can imagine that can be more effective. I think i may dedicate myself for a full clean of all the wheels fairly soon and try and stick to regular running. Thank you very much for your comments.
@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio6932
7 ай бұрын
@@LewisLocos Pleasure Lewis
Useful information, great video. Was going to go with N Gauge, but went with OO. Cheers, Andy
The main thing that bugs me is the availability of items that are readily available in say Double O Gauge & say certain items that are just not gonna be brought to N Gauge. I’d love both the Hogwarts Express & the Winston Churchill Funeral train pack but that’s just me.
Try Inox, I find it very effective cleaning tracks and wheels. IPA absorbs moisture out of the air in humid environments, maybe that is contributing to your problem. If you have a dust problem, then you will have to wipe the track over semi regularly anyway. I use a small piece of MDF, it's non abrasive. The best piece of advice is do not use abrasives to clean your track. It just creates pits and fissures for dirt to settle in. If you find a better solution, let us know. Use Inox sparingly, a little goes a long way. And don't run locos with traction tyres after you do it, it will gum them up. Hope this helps.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Thank you very much. Inox is mention alot here so perhaps will have to invest in some. I'm sticking to a schedule of running trains regularly and that seems to make a difference aswell.
Hi, it sounds like youve convinced yourself to go back to OO. You mentioned track cleaning, yes track does need cleaning but TBH a frequently used track tends to stay clean. Wondering if you are using DC or DCC as certain controllers will give different results in this area. The environment where the layout is kept can affect this, inc dust. Im finding whilst some items are more expensive than OO, its generally similar or much cheaper. Prices are rising... eg dapol mk3 was £22.99 now nearer £30. Many bachmann's are much more but still not quite at the OO level. You do need good eyes, but magnifiers and magnifying glasses along with good lights and varied tools like tweezers, you can do almost anything. Details on locos is always going to be an issue, but they are half the size, and its simply not possible to produce separately fitted parts to every area. Models are improving dramatically, especially when you look at offerings from just 15-20 years ago, they are in new leagues these days. Hoping that helps. If you still feel you are not getting on with it, N gauge is not for everyone, there is no shame switching back. For me its the ability to run full length trains in half the space of OO is massive for me.
I think 00 is the smallest scale you can get any feeling of heft of the trains. N is too small for me.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Alot of people say the same. At first when i first picked up a N gauge loco i didnt think you could get any enjoyment out of it being so small. Thank you for commenting.
If you think n gauge is fragile don’t try O gauge. Ready to run locos are much worse for bits dropping off.
Fleischmann track rubber is a much more forgiving cleaner. 10 minutes of that and my live is good to go every Sunday and I'm in a shed!
I agree...especially if you get older..eye sight...00 is better🎉
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
At 30, its not to bad but itll only get worst. I think if i could id be tempted to go 00.
@Tauraco00
7 ай бұрын
@@LewisLocos beauty of the hobby. Hapoy New Years🎉🎉🎉🎊🎊🎊🌟🌟⭐💫
Biggest complaint for me is the appearance of Peco N track and points. Toy town looks. The OO gauge track has improved greatly but not N. There are build your own finescale versions but it depends on your skill level and budget. Come on Peco, it’s time to improve as there are many N modellers who will part with their cash!
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
I agree, I forgot to mention it.track looks bulky compared to everything else. when viewing someones layout online i can tell its N straight away. When ive found a layout design i want to build for the longhaul i will be looking into that option.
You should go for T-Gauge, 1/450 scale. Then you'll realise that N is just another GIANT scale.
Pretty accurate I'd say.
Hi, it's both funny and a bit sad how videos with a negative tone in their title get loads more views - I've had the same thing with one I made about reliability of N gauge locos, though it's been useful to get the comments. Personally for model scale I really like N gauge - even TT120 seems too big to me - I'd go with N gauge even if I had a warehouse size space to build in (sadly I've nothing of the sort!), because you can replicate long trains in the landscape, or full-size stations / freight facilities and still see the details. On the real railway those things take up absolutely loads of space. For track cleaning there's a particularly good video from the Rons Trains N Things channel where he evaluates NoOxID - it's called "Stop Cleaning Your Track on Your Model Railroad" - he talks about issues that some approaches can cause. I use Goo Gone on a lint-free cloth - I don't run my trains enough for them to keep the track clean, so often give it a clean when I decide I'm going to have some running.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Hi! Yes i have to admit im disappointed that this video seems to get attention. Id rather the positives be viewed other than the negatives. But it has sparked a debate. I would come at this video with a different approach if filming it again. I just hope viewers see it for what it is and for what ive found and just not a attempt at bashing it for the sake of a video. Since doing the hobby for 2 weeks over xmas whilst off work i would always go N gauge i think. I love the size and how much i can get into a smaller space. My next layout is going to bigger but i will be sticking with N. Thank you for suggestion with the track cleaning! I think i have viewed this video but will go other it again. It's a difficult subject to talk about as everybody has a different method to track cleaning. You do hear some horror stories on what people do haha🤣
To be frank British is N Scale is sub par when compared to some other manufacturers globally, I have a decent collection of OO Scale models from a wide variety of manufacturers both big and small and they are reasonably good models, when it comes to N Scale I have a large collection of Japanese models and they are well detailed as well as reasonably robust, obviously you have to take care when using them but they are of a higher quality compared to Grafar and Dapol N Scale models.
@B-A-L
7 ай бұрын
Apart from Greenmax train models which are a load of overpriced crap!
@StajBrickhead69
7 ай бұрын
@@B-A-L The newer Greenmax trains that came into production about 6 years ago with coreless motors are far better than the older models that you maybe referreing to.
You might want to try the HOn30 community - we're modelling narrow gauge railways at HO scale using N-gauge track. The smaller locomotives and rollingstock that you find prototypically can take MUCH tighter curves. So you can get just as much railway into the same space of an N-gauge layout - but you're still modeling at HO scale. Personally, I'm heavily into 3D printed stuff - and I can easily find mountains of 3D printable building models from the HO community and print them for pennies each (just the cost of plastic and electricity). Wagons and such are easily available online - again, 3D printable. Locomotives generally use N-gauge chassis with 3D printed shells. My last loco cost me $19 for the chassis - and $0.10 worth of plastic - and was a free download. Personally - I don't want to buy more stuff. I want to be a MODELLER - and not a PURCHASER. So anything and everything that I can scratch-build or 3D print is what I do. It gives me little pleasure to splurge on a $120 locomotive or a $30 house model. On the other hand, something I've created myself is what the hobby is all about for me. So, honestly, I don't give damn what's for sale out there. I bought my track from Peco and some loco chassis from Japan and wheel-sets from China. I have two duel 12v controllers (used from eBay). Aside from that, literally 100% of my layout is stuff I made. My total budget for a 4'x8' layout is under $300. Every model I build for 3D printing is available for free download on Thingiverse just as soon as I'm happy that it's good. I built a windmill, a road bridge, fencing, a station...all sorts of stuff - and I get dozens of other modellers downloading them. We all share what we can - and that builds community.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Thank you for your comment. I completely forgot about access to 3D printing. If i got hold of one that would transform the hobby and layout for me big time. I mainly used recycled materials on my last layout and on my new one i suppose i have been looking at ready to run models to quickly get my layout upto speed when i could create alot of things myself at a slower but enjoyable pace. There are a few things i have built myself this time round and i have enjoyed the finished product. Its good that you upload your creations. Like you said sharing is building a community and that really adds to the hobby for me.
@SteveBakerIsHere
7 ай бұрын
@@LewisLocos 3D printers are about as cheap as they can get. When you add up the price of the components they use - they don't get under $150 - for either Resin or Filament printers. IMHO, you need resin for fine detail in things like loco's, wagons and figurines - but filament for buildings and larger objects. I use TWO Ender-3 filament printers (saves time!) and a Voxelab resin printer. The Ender-3 is a GREAT machine - it doesn't have any fancy bells and whistles - but you won't care. They're easy to maintain. For resin printers - be sure to get one with at least a 4k display...I doubt it matters which brand you get. Software for making designs is everywhere - and it's free. Don't spend money on software!
Things I didn't like about N guage? Everything except the compactness! I would never go that way again ! Started with 00 and will end with 00! Did think of TT but not enough choice at this time, though .
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
When looking at N gauge i did consider TT. I was happy to see a class 50 as well as a GWR hst. But like you say the choice is limited as it could be years till theres plenty options. TT would be ideal for me though. If space wasnt an option 00 would probably be my choice.
N is great when space is limited, I'd go or it again over OO.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Were lucky to have a decent size house but normal life gets in the way. I can't see myself getting enough space/ time to devote big rooms to the hobby. For that i think it'll always be N gauge for me.
I'm getting stocked up to make my own turnouts for the first time, and in n gauge with also having deteriorating eyes and sausage fingers. Wish me luck. 😂
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Your braver than me! massive respect for attempting it. Best of luck with that!
I am presuming you have used new Peco track for your layout. If so when new it does get dirty very quickly, but the more you use your layout and as the track becomes "run in" the less cleaning the track will require. I clean my track about once every three or four months. Just let some trains run for a few hours at a time. The Dapol class 50's I find will run regardless a long with the Farish class 60. Dapol's Hymek does like clean track. Using WD40 is a no no, dust will stick to the residue left behind, IPA is best, not the beer ! As fragility yes you are right and you are wrong. Certain models can be very fragile, Dapol's 68 buffers and windscreen wipers to be watched carefully when handling, but HST's are pretty robust, they just need Hunt couplings to stop the constant couplings. As for a fiddle yard, I built one and it has been a joy to have, I just worry will I have enough space going forward because there is always something else you want to own.
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Yes new Peco track. Thats interesting but makes sense. I am planning on trying to run trains. Even if i can't "play". set em going and do choirs lol. To try and keep it all working well. The WD-40 i use is the electrical stuff. The contact cleaner. But i use IPA too! Fiddle yard is a must and for the next layout i will 100% be having one. Or at least more sidings so i dont need to handle the stock. Thank you for commenting!
@PiddleInTheMarshbyMarkIreland
7 ай бұрын
@@LewisLocos Taking off or putting on thirty odd coal wagons to make up two trains is an absolute pain
Tottally different to my experience. Rule 1
TERRIFYING TOYS ??? Good Lord !! My 30 year old Japanese outline N gauge models, make those models you've got there look prehistoric. Steam roller wheels, and what look like really cheap nasty coarse gearing yuck. Don't suppose your locomotives have 5 pole skew armature can motors with double flywheels and machine polished brass wormgears, driving Frictionless Teflon coated bevel gearing. NO lubrication necessary of course. Japanese mechanisms coast of course, which means you have to learn how to drive them. This of course prevents use of those really crude & unrealistic DCC controllers I've seen in Britain. Japanese models require "Ultra Glide" controllers that look just like the drivers desk in a real train. Complete with real life type power & brake handles, horn, Speedometer, Ammeter, brake gauge, & line light. They also allow adjustment of the "Ultra Glide" acceleration & deceleration ratios to allow for the size of layout you have. Some of these controllers also have a provision to switch between operation of more than one train at a time, without the need for expensive chips. This is only possible with 12v DC in the rails, as a Common Return allows dozens of separate plus supplies to be connected to the plus rail without fear of a short circuit, as would happen if AC is used !!!
Its all about regular running sessions, also enough trackfeeders. I have 2 wires on every piece of track. Ow and please stop showing GWR trains. It makes me wanna buy them😂
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Yes I agree. I’m going to try and run them more often now! I am sorry 😂 secretly I am a 80-90s western region fan but I couldn’t resist them😂
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Oh and my next layout I’ll definitely be paying attention to the wiring. Adding more feeders will be handy
Hello Lewis 👋 N gauge is definitely "niche" 👌 compared to OO 🫣 and has its strengths and weaknesses 🤔 It's definitely not a "toy" and not suitable for young children 👶 Dirty track is rarely the reason for poor performance 😳 its normally a pick-up issue with the locomotives 🚂 The This Way Works channel 😇 offers fantastic advice on how to service your locomotives 👍 and will take the fear out of giving it a go yourself 😉 As for buildings 👷♂️ if you have the time and dedication, like Michael of Chandwell 😇 you can scratch build for very little cost 👌 well he is from Yorkshire 🤫 As for prebuilt 🤔 you should look out for pre-owned 👀 there can be a significant saving, especially if you are willing to accept a few knocks and chips 🫣 The KZread N Gauge Community are a fantastic bunch too, with Picadilly John Warner being a particularly helpful person 😇 Very best wishes for your future adventures in N Gauge 👍
@LewisLocos
7 ай бұрын
Thank you paul for your tips. I do wonder with the track as 3/4 locos seem to have running issues. The Kato 800 just doesnt stop for anything as is defiantly my best train for performance. I will check out that channel for servicing help. It's very much needed. Micheal of chandwell is extremely gifted.His layout is art. I struggle with time due to work and family life so scratch building can be difficult for me. Because of this i think this is why ive looked at ready made stuff to try and keep progress going. But i have been down the second hand road before and i always keep things for "future projects" just in case. The N gauge community is fantastic. It's daunting being a beginner. But viewing fantastic layouts by kind helpful people makes it easier and keeps me motivated. I'm sorry i havent commented on your videos for a while. I havent been able to get onto youtube. Your china clay video is catching my eye. haha. Thank you.