Tramway Modelling On-Line Reference

Modelling Tips

The Tramway & Light Railway Society has many modelling experts and enthusiasts amongst its membership. They regularly contribute technical 'how to' modelling articles to the Tramfare magazine. Some of these articles are reproduced here, along with other contributions, to provide a resource of how to tackle various tramway modelling topics.

The modelling articles are divided by scale and topics, but many methods are applicable across all the scales and gauges.

Further information is available in the range of tramway modelling books.

Model trams can be seen at the Festival of Model Tramways and at many other model exhibitions.

The British Tramway Systems list provides links to photographs and postcards of the full size tramcars.

Manufacturers

These are lists of suppliers of materials, kits, or complete models. The information collected is for guidance only, and this web site cannot be held in any way responsible for any inaccuracies found. Any questions and queries should be directed to the manufacturer concerned.

• UK Manufacturers
• Overseas Manufacturers

The TLRS On-Line Sales can supply modelling items by mail-order.

If you need to track down the location of your local model railway shop, try www.ukmodelshops.co.uk

Large scales

The most common large scale for British tram models is 1:16 scale (3/4":1 foot), running on 3.5" gauge track.

• A Beginners' Guide to Large Scale Tramcar Modelling: a pictorial study by John Prentice of how to build a large scale model tramcar using traditional methods. This excellent article illustrates most of the main steps in making a tram in 1:16 scale (3/4":1 foot).

Small scales

The most common small scale for British tram models is 00 (4mm to 1 foot), running on 16.5mm gauge track. For Continental models it is H0 (3.5mm to 1 foot), which also runs on 16.5mm gauge track.

• John Prentice describes how to construct Etched Brass model tram kits in 00 scale.

• An article on Tramcar Trucks by David Voice with additions by John Prentice, untangles some of the jargon of this topic, and gives details of mechanisms available to motorize models in 00 and H0 scales.

• Or why not try one of the Printable Kits in various scales for free download.

General

• Before you can begin your model layout, it is necessary to have some idea of the real sizes. This section gives you examples of the Prototype Dimensions.

• The T.L.R.S have developed a series of simple Standards giving the modeller a good starting point for his work.

• An article on Current Collection by David Voice with additions by John Prentice, gives details of the various methods by which an Electric Tramcar can receive its power supply.

• Starting & Stopping is a review by John Prentice of tramcar controllers and brakes.

• Tramcar Colours by John Prentice, shows why it is so difficult to get a good match to a prototype livery.

• Lead Free Solder, its qualities and alleged problems for the model maker are considered by John Prentice.

• Joints with Glue and Solder. John Prentice takes a look at various glues and gives tips on how to solder.

Go to --->