Brand new Piko Garden Railway Hobbyist here. Love your Company. This was an excellent instructional video for me....please keep them coming. Merry Christmas...can't wait for spring !!
Thanks for the comments! I think the endless creative possibilities are what makes garden railroading such a great hobby. You might buy the same train as someone else, but I've never seen two identical garden railways. Dream of springtime and enjoy planning your very own garden railway! Jonathan
Hello, I'm trying to do a garden railroad for my 12th birthday and I don't have a raised bed, what should I do? And for a starter, what rolling stock, locos, landscape, etc. Just asking! Thanks!
Happy Birthday! Regarding your questions, to be honest there are many options that depend on your interests and budget. If you don't want to create a raised bed, you can put trains on the ground. (Many people like them raised better so they have less bending over to do!) Elevated rail is also a possibility, which usually involves creating a raised track system. Trains can also be run in the house, but make sure your parents are "all-aboard" with the plan. As for rolling stock, locos and more... this is really up to your interests and budget. A starter set is a popular place to start and can always be added too. You can choose a railroad that operates - or operated - around your location, or you can create a miniature world around whatever trains you like. Don't be afraid to use your imagination and keep your trains fun!
Nice little video which has given me some ideas. Piko missed an opportunity with their old time USA trains. The locomotives just don't look right and the coaches look way too short. The LGB ones look so much better.
yeah piko usa products are so disappointing compared to the german range they make big market the usa and they could sell so much more i feel if they made prototypical stuff,,, but they choose to sell the child like toy trains maby one day eh,,,,,
PIKO track and buildings are made to remain outdoors in all kinds of weather. But the locomotives, and even some cars, contain many electronic components which must not be exposed to water. Most people bring at least their locomotives indoors, or run them into a shed.
I have friends and family that has done it, have seen videos with folks doing it... but doubt any company would ever suggest it. :) I personally would not run in the rain, but I would not be too worried if I forgot some stuff out on the layout. (I would just take it in when I remembered and let it dry out.)
Eutimio... You can find PIKO products at hundreds of shops in North America, and many more throughout the world. The following link takes you to our website, and shows you many of the North American locations that sell PIKO. www.piko-america.com/apps/store-locator
We used the following: 38111 D&RGW Starter Set, 35300 Station Track Set, most of a box of 12x 35200 320mm Straight Tracks, several packs of 35294 Over-Joiner RailClamps, 62709 Station, 62710 Water Tower, 62722 Village Furniture, 62723 Coffee Shop, 62707 & 62708 Houses and 62103 Bait and Tackle Shop. But of course, personalizing your railroad with your own choice of PIKO products is highly recommended!
Is there any way to cement the ballast together so my child wont eat the rocks, but also being able to remove the cement and rocks to easily replace track parts?
Natural crushed rock has sharp edges and quite a bit of fine dust in it. This locks together pretty tightly. But yes, many people use what is called "soil stabilizer", usually something like an acrylic polymer material that is sprayed on the ballast, but you will have to see what is available in your area. A light application will be easier to break apart later. Make sure it is safe for the brass rails and HDPE track ties. And if a child will try to eat it, also safe for humans!
This is about what I'm going to do for a layout, will you guys be working on doing bigger switcher units than the GE 25 ton or other style of American diesel units that will work with the R1 curves? Currently using an older, analog dc LGB mogul and enjoy it, but would like a diesel to run as well that would work good with multiple rolling stock behind it.
SCHensley, we are always interested in what folks would like to see on their railroad. Don't be afraid to call, or email, and offer suggestions. Everything PIKO makes can run on a 4' diameter circle of track, but admittedly the GE 25-Tonner looks the best on the tight radius.
@@danpikoamerica7314 understand that, am looking closely at the D&RGW (38500) but would like a little longer as well, like the EMD SW1 in the yellow and blue Santa Fe.
@@IndustrialParrot2816 I ended up getting a USAT GP38-2, putting #3 in my lineup. The 25 ton is nice, but doesn’t like much besides what’s in the mighty max set, and my first is an LGB mogul pre marklin in the DRGW scheme. Would like to try another American modeled diesel from Piko before saying I like USAT better (knowing the 38-2 is heavier than the 25 ton, the 25 ton run pretty good and looks good, just light).
Hi, Im starting a little setup in my backyard (in the exact formation you did in every step) and im just wondering: should I put in a drain pipe under the dirt to stop flooding, or would the ballast/gravel under the rails sort the problem themselves? Follow up question: If I'm doing it all elevated a few inches with brick barriers, should I cement or adhere them together or just tuck dirt in the nooks & crannies?
In normally dry Southern California, where this layout was built, we worry more about keeping the plants green than we do about flooding. But in some locales, water drainage is a big concern. With a nicely packed-down raised ballast roadbed forming a pretty effective dam, the middle of the oval could indeed turn into a slow-draining pond. So a couple of area drains would be a good idea, with the ground gently sloping away from the tracks and towards the drains. With some planning, the drains could be mostly hidden from view with plants or buildings. The owner of this layout only wanted it raised up by the height of one block. If you're building it up with a couple courses of bricks, mortar is not a bad idea. They might be okay without it for a while, but they could get pushed and kicked as you work on and around the layout. Here again, some occasional drainage holes would be a good idea, so water does not build up behind the bricks. This is a great example of how the garden railroad hobby gives you a chance to learn many skills - track-laying, electrical wiring, scenic landscaping, building structures, gardening, and yes, even some civil engineering!
I don't know much about ballasting trackage in garden railroading, but in the more small scales it allows you to visualizes the shape of the layout easier, and it makes it easier to seat the track. On the BNSF mainline and yard downtown and a few branchlines that I've been to, mostly only the top of the ties were showing. It's easier to get this look by having the ballast be added second.
love the video but please guys, audio is actually super important, invest in a decent mic for promotional videos and people will pay more attention to you and be more likely to buy your product, first impressions are an incredibly important part of the sell.
Here you see (and hear) the proof that our videos are not high-dollar professional productions! We keep the budget low, to keep bringing you PIKO trains at a great value. This was our first, and so far only, outdoor video adventure. We had one day to get it done and lots of things went wrong. First, the space was not nearly as ready as we'd hoped, so by the time we were ready to build, it was mid-afternoon. Then, crazy winds started. The starter set you see near the beginning actually blew off the table. PIKO buildings were flying across the yard - it was wild! And just as we started to shoot video, the neighbor's gardener started up with his weed wacker and we had to pay him to quit making noise. This is the only time we've ever done any audio correction, thanks to the kindness of a friend who did what he could in a short time to clean up the wind noise. Some day, we may make another garden railway video, hopefully with a bit less adventure involved. Meanwhile, thanks for watching! Jonathan
Sherrcon... All G-Scale brands are not the same in terms of quality, design, materials, durability, etc... however they all should run on the same gauge of G-Scale track which was standardized at 45mm. (This includes items scaled 1:22.5 all the way to 1:32. Narrow Gauge and Standard Gauge runs on the same track.) I am not familiar with Lionel G-Scale products, however I am pretty sure they made their products to fit on the common 45mm (G-Gauge) track like ours.
another critical question..if piko is electric current, how do i run during the rain since i see that on ytube?>.or is piko battery power?..i am new..i am trying to narrow down the scale, model, and make...thank you so kindly..
PIKO trains are powered conventionally, through the track. (We have a new track cleaning loco coming in October/November that is battery powered.) Some people do convert their PIKO trains to battery power and radio control. In either case, while the trains themselves are made of weather-resistant materials, sophisticated electronics such as sound systems or battery R/C controls are not such a good combination with rain. Generally, the idea of a garden railroad is for the operator to be outdoors enjoying the trains, so most people do not run their trains while it's raining.
Hello, to be honest the possibilities are endless. The answer to the question you are asking would be different for everybody based on preferences, style, budget, etc. You are welcome to check out our readily available G-Scale Starter Sets at www.piko-america.com/collections/g-scale-starter-sets or by contacting your favorite hobby shop and asking for PIKO products.
+westrew63, This layout looks to be about 8-10 feet wide of track, maybe 16 feet with plants and bricks. It is roughly 7-8 feet front to back. It appears the oval was placed at a slight angle to increase visual interest. (I am estimating based on the circle size. The circle is our R1, or roughly 4 foot diameter curve, that is located in each starter set.)
True, PIKO trains are not cheap, in either price or quality. When you consider that we develop and produce them for a market of thousands of G-Scale customers, not millions, most folks end up agreeing that PIKO trains are an excellent value.
Shaneomac, Definitely. These were made to handle the rigors of outdoor use but that doesn't mean they cannot be used indoors. Without being subjected to weather - and with typical, simple maintenance you would use for any train - PIKO America trains should give you years of enjoyment! (years and years and years and... )
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
I followed you instructions, and my layout turned out perfect. Extremely helpful, Thank You
@william finan We are very glad the video helped. Enjoy your PIKO trains, track and buildings!
Please keep up the good work. It's important to reach the whole family with Garden & non-garden model railroading!
I need to get some of these trains. They would go excellent with my Schleich models.
Brand new Piko Garden Railway Hobbyist here. Love your Company. This was an excellent instructional video for me....please keep them coming. Merry Christmas...can't wait for spring !!
Thanks for the comments! I think the endless creative possibilities are what makes garden railroading such a great hobby. You might buy the same train as someone else, but I've never seen two identical garden railways. Dream of springtime and enjoy planning your very own garden railway! Jonathan
Use LGB and you can run all through the winter !
Thanks to you I'll be able to make a replica calico mine train set in my back yard.
Hello Jonathan, thank you for your Video. In the same way I built my Garden-Railway.
Awesome!!!
Thanks for sharing.
Alright!
Good Luck out there pal!
Are PIKO trains winter-proof?
N.D. has very harsh weather and I want to know the practicality of running trains in the winter.
Hello, I'm trying to do a garden railroad for my 12th birthday and I don't have a raised bed, what should I do? And for a starter, what rolling stock, locos, landscape, etc. Just asking! Thanks!
Happy Birthday!
Regarding your questions, to be honest there are many options that depend on your interests and budget. If you don't want to create a raised bed, you can put trains on the ground. (Many people like them raised better so they have less bending over to do!) Elevated rail is also a possibility, which usually involves creating a raised track system. Trains can also be run in the house, but make sure your parents are "all-aboard" with the plan.
As for rolling stock, locos and more... this is really up to your interests and budget. A starter set is a popular place to start and can always be added too. You can choose a railroad that operates - or operated - around your location, or you can create a miniature world around whatever trains you like. Don't be afraid to use your imagination and keep your trains fun!
@@danpikoamerica7314 look at other layouts and figure out what you want
Nice little video which has given me some ideas.
Piko missed an opportunity with their old time USA trains. The locomotives just don't look right and the coaches look way too short. The LGB ones look so much better.
yeah piko usa products are so disappointing compared to the german range they make big market the usa and they could sell so much more i feel if they made prototypical stuff,,, but they choose to sell the child like toy trains
maby one day eh,,,,,
they made a single steam chassie and applied it to like 5 locomotive classes
will piko trains run while its raining outside?
PIKO track and buildings are made to remain outdoors in all kinds of weather. But the locomotives, and even some cars, contain many electronic components which must not be exposed to water. Most people bring at least their locomotives indoors, or run them into a shed.
I have friends and family that has done it, have seen videos with folks doing it... but doubt any company would ever suggest it. :)
I personally would not run in the rain, but I would not be too worried if I forgot some stuff out on the layout. (I would just take it in when I remembered and let it dry out.)
Thank you.
Where can I buy one? Thank you
Eutimio... You can find PIKO products at hundreds of shops in North America, and many more throughout the world. The following link takes you to our website, and shows you many of the North American locations that sell PIKO. www.piko-america.com/apps/store-locator
What kits did you use?
We used the following: 38111 D&RGW Starter Set, 35300 Station Track Set, most of a box of 12x 35200 320mm Straight Tracks, several packs of 35294 Over-Joiner RailClamps, 62709 Station, 62710 Water Tower, 62722 Village Furniture, 62723 Coffee Shop, 62707 & 62708 Houses and 62103 Bait and Tackle Shop. But of course, personalizing your railroad with your own choice of PIKO products is highly recommended!
Thank you so much, keep up the great work.
can you reduce the speed of train?
of course you can i have a set i have so much control of the loco though changing speed is a bit slow
Is there any way to cement the ballast together so my child wont eat the rocks, but also being able to remove the cement and rocks to easily replace track parts?
Natural crushed rock has sharp edges and quite a bit of fine dust in it. This locks together pretty tightly. But yes, many people use what is called "soil stabilizer", usually something like an acrylic polymer material that is sprayed on the ballast, but you will have to see what is available in your area. A light application will be easier to break apart later. Make sure it is safe for the brass rails and HDPE track ties. And if a child will try to eat it, also safe for humans!
PIKO-America thanks!
This is about what I'm going to do for a layout, will you guys be working on doing bigger switcher units than the GE 25 ton or other style of American diesel units that will work with the R1 curves? Currently using an older, analog dc LGB mogul and enjoy it, but would like a diesel to run as well that would work good with multiple rolling stock behind it.
SCHensley, we are always interested in what folks would like to see on their railroad. Don't be afraid to call, or email, and offer suggestions.
Everything PIKO makes can run on a 4' diameter circle of track, but admittedly the GE 25-Tonner looks the best on the tight radius.
@@danpikoamerica7314 understand that, am looking closely at the D&RGW (38500) but would like a little longer as well, like the EMD SW1 in the yellow and blue Santa Fe.
i recommend trying to get something from USA trains but be warned their stuff is mostly Die-Cast and VERY expensive but it will last a lifetime
@@IndustrialParrot2816 I ended up getting a USAT GP38-2, putting #3 in my lineup. The 25 ton is nice, but doesn’t like much besides what’s in the mighty max set, and my first is an LGB mogul pre marklin in the DRGW scheme. Would like to try another American modeled diesel from Piko before saying I like USAT better (knowing the 38-2 is heavier than the 25 ton, the 25 ton run pretty good and looks good, just light).
Hi, Im starting a little setup in my backyard (in the exact formation you did in every step) and im just wondering: should I put in a drain pipe under the dirt to stop flooding, or would the ballast/gravel under the rails sort the problem themselves? Follow up question: If I'm doing it all elevated a few inches with brick barriers, should I cement or adhere them together or just tuck dirt in the nooks & crannies?
In normally dry Southern California, where this layout was built, we worry more about keeping the plants green than we do about flooding. But in some locales, water drainage is a big concern. With a nicely packed-down raised ballast roadbed forming a pretty effective dam, the middle of the oval could indeed turn into a slow-draining pond. So a couple of area drains would be a good idea, with the ground gently sloping away from the tracks and towards the drains. With some planning, the drains could be mostly hidden from view with plants or buildings.
The owner of this layout only wanted it raised up by the height of one block. If you're building it up with a couple courses of bricks, mortar is not a bad idea. They might be okay without it for a while, but they could get pushed and kicked as you work on and around the layout. Here again, some occasional drainage holes would be a good idea, so water does not build up behind the bricks.
This is a great example of how the garden railroad hobby gives you a chance to learn many skills - track-laying, electrical wiring, scenic landscaping, building structures, gardening, and yes, even some civil engineering!
@@PIKOAmerica consult a forum like My Large Scale the experts will tell everything for your climate
Why add the rock after the track is down and not before?
I don't know much about ballasting trackage in garden railroading, but in the more small scales it allows you to visualizes the shape of the layout easier, and it makes it easier to seat the track. On the BNSF mainline and yard downtown and a few branchlines that I've been to, mostly only the top of the ties were showing. It's easier to get this look by having the ballast be added second.
love the video but please guys, audio is actually super important, invest in a decent mic for promotional videos and people will pay more attention to you and be more likely to buy your product, first impressions are an incredibly important part of the sell.
Here you see (and hear) the proof that our videos are not high-dollar professional productions! We keep the budget low, to keep bringing you PIKO trains at a great value. This was our first, and so far only, outdoor video adventure. We had one day to get it done and lots of things went wrong. First, the space was not nearly as ready as we'd hoped, so by the time we were ready to build, it was mid-afternoon. Then, crazy winds started. The starter set you see near the beginning actually blew off the table. PIKO buildings were flying across the yard - it was wild! And just as we started to shoot video, the neighbor's gardener started up with his weed wacker and we had to pay him to quit making noise. This is the only time we've ever done any audio correction, thanks to the kindness of a friend who did what he could in a short time to clean up the wind noise. Some day, we may make another garden railway video, hopefully with a bit less adventure involved. Meanwhile, thanks for watching! Jonathan
PIKO-America I got 20 acres and neighbors are 1/4 miles away on either side. you can use my yard next time if you want
I think the video is great....
nah imma wait a bit and get more track locos and rolling stock then build a big layout with a brewery
question: is piko g the same scale a lionel g?..is g scale all g scale the same?..so confusing..thank you if you answer..
Sherrcon... All G-Scale brands are not the same in terms of quality, design, materials, durability, etc... however they all should run on the same gauge of G-Scale track which was standardized at 45mm. (This includes items scaled 1:22.5 all the way to 1:32. Narrow Gauge and Standard Gauge runs on the same track.)
I am not familiar with Lionel G-Scale products, however I am pretty sure they made their products to fit on the common 45mm (G-Gauge) track like ours.
another critical question..if piko is electric current, how do i run during the rain since i see that on ytube?>.or is piko battery power?..i am new..i am trying to narrow down the scale, model, and make...thank you so kindly..
PIKO trains are powered conventionally, through the track. (We have a new track cleaning loco coming in October/November that is battery powered.) Some people do convert their PIKO trains to battery power and radio control. In either case, while the trains themselves are made of weather-resistant materials, sophisticated electronics such as sound systems or battery R/C controls are not such a good combination with rain. Generally, the idea of a garden railroad is for the operator to be outdoors enjoying the trains, so most people do not run their trains while it's raining.
ahhh!..thank you.
glad to help
I have a miniature 18 inch hallmark Christmas tree that I need miniature railroad train set for. Please help or recommend
Hello, to be honest the possibilities are endless. The answer to the question you are asking would be different for everybody based on preferences, style, budget, etc. You are welcome to check out our readily available G-Scale Starter Sets at www.piko-america.com/collections/g-scale-starter-sets or by contacting your favorite hobby shop and asking for PIKO products.
How wide is the layout?
+westrew63, This layout looks to be about 8-10 feet wide of track, maybe 16 feet with plants and bricks. It is roughly 7-8 feet front to back. It appears the oval was placed at a slight angle to increase visual interest.
(I am estimating based on the circle size. The circle is our R1, or roughly 4 foot diameter curve, that is located in each starter set.)
Man, so product place-y.
Make a 0-4-0 steam locomotive camelback
Piko I want ur trains sooo bad but there to expensive
True, PIKO trains are not cheap, in either price or quality. When you consider that we develop and produce them for a market of thousands of G-Scale customers, not millions, most folks end up agreeing that PIKO trains are an excellent value.
PIKO-America thanks for answering to my comment I thought about it and do you think it can be used in an indoor setup
Shaneomac,
Definitely. These were made to handle the rigors of outdoor use but that doesn't mean they cannot be used indoors. Without being subjected to weather - and with typical, simple maintenance you would use for any train - PIKO America trains should give you years of enjoyment! (years and years and years and... )
PIKO-America I think I have settled on this set. I hope it goes well with my Lionel trains!
are all g scale trains g scale?..some like polar express g cannot run on other g scale..
my man you have some great prices for track thanks mate the cheap shit
Why does the audio sound like he's in a box?
I'll an LGB guy myself.....
nah imma wait a bit and get more track locos and rolling stock then build a big layout with a brewery