Model train track consists of two metal rails separated by plastic tie sections. Each rail carries one side of the electrical circuit. To work properly, the two rails should not contact each other and no metal object should contact both rails together. This would cause a short circuit, which could damage your model train power pack if it happened too often.
With this in mind, assemble your model train track and connect the power pack… and you’ll be ready to start operating your model trains. It is as easy as plugging in the power pack, carefully placing the locomotive on the train track, turning up the throttle…and enjoying!
It’s best to set up your train track on a sheet of plywood, a tabletop, or other hard surface. Carpet fuzz and floor dirt can hamper smooth train operation.
Model train track comes in different types made of brass, zinc-coated steel, nickel silver and steel. Regardless of what the train tracks are made of, most track sets come with a terminal section so that you can hook into the transformer. Brass track and zinc-coated steel track are common in starter sets and, when purchased separately, are usually cheaper in price than nickel silver tracks.
By Robert Anderson – Author of the best-selling Model Train Help ebook.