The idea of using a real gas powered engine to provide motive power for the garden railroader is not new, but the hobby has been waiting for technology to finally provide the materials to get the locomotives rolling. Now the time and technology has arrived to bring new excitement to the hobby!!
A: A real diesel locomotive uses the diesel engine for one basic purpose - to create electricity by turning a generator. The higher the rpms, the faster the generator turns which results in an increase in electrical power to traction motors mounted on the axles. In a true sense, a diesel locomotive is an electric train. To make a diesel model that is true to the nature of the real thing, a gas engine would do the same thing. Turn a generator to create electricity to power electric traction motors.
Q: What type of fuel do gas/electric locomotives use?
A: The locomotives operate on Nitro-Methane or "Glow Fuel". This is the same fuel used to power model aircraft engines and is readily available at hobby stores. The percentage of lubricant to fuel ratio will cary depending on the type of glow engine used.
Q: Model airplane engines can be very noisy. Do the diesels make as much noise as the model airplanes?
A:No. Most commercially made diesels contain a unique dual muffler system that puts the noise at the same level found on electric trains with sound systems installed. This system allows the model to have a very prototypical gas engine sound, without the need for electronic sound systems. The noise level will vary depending on the rpm's neede to create electrical energy, the muffler system, and if there is any sound-proofing used in the shell.
Q: Aren't model airplane engines also very messy because of the lubricant in the glow fuel?
A: Airplanes and model cars do not incorporate any type of recovery system. The dual muffler system also acts as a spent lubricant recovery system. The second stage captures all of the lubricant that would normally be spread all over and sends it to the first stage of the muffler, the tank under the chassis, where it is held until you are ready to drain the tank after several runs.
Q: How many pieces of rolling stock will an engine haul?
A: Tractive effort IS NOT due to use of the glow engine. It is based on the power of the traction motors used. Tractive effort will vary depending on the power of the traction motors and the ability of the generator system to create the full capability of electricity that the traction motors can use.
Q: What do I need for a "Rev-up" Kit.
A: Usually, you will need a 12 volt rechargeable battery to "kick" the starter and a battery charger. You will also need a 1.5 volt power supply and glow plug cable to heat the glow plug during ignition. These items are available from hobby shops as they are standard items in both the model airplane and model boat hobby. Other items that help to fill out a "Rev-up" kit are a syringe or fuel pump for transferring fuel. Hex alan wrenches are supplied with the locomotive for minor maintenance.