10 best hobby train accessories
Hobby train accessories are a collection of miniature elements and additions that enhance the realism and functionality of model train layouts. These accessories are commonly used by hobbyists who enjoy building and operating model train setups.Here is an overview of hobby train accessories:
Track Accessories:
- Track Bedding: Foam or cork track bedding provides a realistic and cushioned surface for laying tracks.
- Track Ballast: Fine gravel or ballast materials are used to mimic the appearance of real railway tracks.
Scenery and Landscape Accessories:
- Trees and Foliage: Model trees, bushes, and foliage help create a lifelike environment.
- Terrain Features: Accessories like mountains, hills, tunnels, and bridges add dimension to the landscape.
- Grass, Ground Cover, and Turf: These materials simulate grass, meadows, and other ground cover.
- Water Features: Miniature ponds, rivers, and lakes can be created using resin or epoxy.
Buildings and Structures:
- Houses and Buildings: Scale model buildings, houses, depots, and stations contribute to the overall scenery.
- Station Platforms: Platforms and platforms accessories create a realistic station setting.
- Bridges and Tunnels: These accessories add visual interest and realism to layouts.
People and Figurines:
- Passengers and Crew: Miniature figures of passengers, train crews, and station staff bring scenes to life.
- Animals: Tiny farm animals, wildlife, and pets can be placed in rural or urban settings.
Vehicles:
- Cars and Trucks: Scale model cars and trucks add a sense of movement to the layout.
- Trains: Hobbyists may include additional trains to expand their collection and increase the variety on their layout.
Signals and Lighting:
- Signals and Signs: Miniature signals, signs, and traffic lights help regulate train traffic.
- Street Lights: Working street lights or lamp posts provide realistic lighting at night.
Power and Control:
- Transformers: Transformers and power controllers regulate the voltage and speed of trains.
- Turnouts and Switches: These components control the direction and routing of trains on the track.
Sound and Effects:
- Sound Modules: Sound systems can be added to simulate train engine sounds, station announcements, and other audio effects.
- Smoke Generators: Smoke generators mimic the exhaust from steam locomotives, adding realism.
Maintenance and Detailing:
- Track Cleaning Accessories: Brushes and cleaning cars help maintain track cleanliness.
- Detailing Tools: Tools for adding small details and weathering effects to train cars and scenery.
Storage and Display:
- Display Cases: Transparent cases protect and showcase train collections.
- Storage Solutions: Cabinets, shelves, and drawers help organize and store train accessories.
Hobby train accessories allow enthusiasts to create intricate and detailed model train layouts that reflect real-life scenes and operations. These accessories can be used to customize and personalize layouts to a hobbyist's preference, making the hobby of model railroading a creative and enjoyable pastime.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best hobby train accessories on the marketProduct description
Lionel offers these tunnel portals for the train enthusist that go all out in their realiastic train layout.
From the Manufacturer
Tunnel Portals with raised Lionel lettering and classic Postwar styling.
- Well constructed plastic
- Realistic looking brick look
- Set of 2
- Portals with raised Lionel lettering
- Classic Postwar styling
- Portals with raised Lionel lettering
- Classic Postwar styling
User questions & answers
| Question: | If I don't have an accessory transformer, can I connect the bridge directly to the track using the wires / accessory power wire |
| Answer: | Yes you can run it on track power every fastrack has conactors on the underside |
| Question: | Is the lionel #99723, hogwarts express car w/sounds, an o-27 gauge car |
| Answer: | I have never purchased this. If this is an accessory it will work with both. |
| Question: | Will these work with the lionel santa fe fastrack train set |
| Answer: | Yes they should work fine |
| Question: | Is the opening large enough for the polar express ready to play set |
| Answer: | It should be fine. The inside height of the opening is 5 1/8 inches tall. |
Product description
Specifications:
.Material: 304 Solid Stainless Steel + Copper Alloy + 3D Print
.Product Weight: 180g
Package Content:
.1Set x Treadmill Track(6 Subunits + 1 Frame)
.1 x Connecting Line
- N scale test track total length 50cm, with six sets of bearings and connecting line.
- Adapt to the N scale train model of most brands on the market.
- Used to test, repair, display N-scale model train use, let the train idling above, to determine the train failure by identifying the train's operation, sound, etc.
- High-precision printing of 3d printed parts ensures installation accuracy and module strength.
- How To Use: After the line is connected as required, let the train run on it, detect faults or display.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this work with Arnold trains |
| Answer: | We have not used this in a few years, but if I remember correctly, they were the little circle batteries or triple AAA , and there is a small screw to open at the base of handle the orange part at the bottom. You need one of those smaller screw drivers to open. Luckily for us those batteries lasted years so I only remember changing it once. The manual is online so it will show you a picture of the location to remove the batteries |
Product description
The Lionelville Street Lamps are the perfect way to illuminate the quaint streets on your layout. These lamps feature removable bases that can press into holes in your layout for a realistic appearance.
- Metal posts
- Lamp Illumination
- Removable bases for realistic mounting on your layout
- Set of four
User questions & answers
| Question: | What voltage do these run on |
| Answer: | I would recommend 14 volts, which many transformers have as their fixed voltage for accessories. You can hook them to a variable voltage post to dim or intensify them, but remember that the bulbs will have a longer life at the lower voltage. |
| Question: | What are they made of |
| Answer: | They are made of plastic and copper wire for the power. |
| Question: | Do I have to plug these into something or are the battery operated |
| Answer: | These lights are not battery operated; they must be powered with a step down transformer (such as a train transformer) from regular house current (110-120 volts) to an approximate 15-18 ac voltage. This unit is meant for a train layout--O gauge. Simply strip the wire on the loose end and place it around the binding post on the transformer terminal for the accessory. Usually the posts are labeled U,A,C,D. Find the combination voltages that total 15-18 volts by placing one wire on A and C first. Do not connect two wires to the same terminal. Plugging this accessory into house current will immediately burn out the light and may trip your house breaker. |
| Question: | How many volts do they operate on |
| Answer: | These are on my American Flyer layout using a 300 Watt transformer with a constant 15 volts to all accessories. |
Product description
With the Plug-Expand-Play system by Lionel, operating accessories on your layout has never been easier! Usable on any AC or DC powered layout but designed especially for FasTrack users, the Plug-Expand-Play system simplifies what’s needed to connect your operating accessories. It also minimizes the need to mess with bare wires on any FasTrack layout. This accessory system is often as simple as the name—Plug the accessory into your powered track and you’re ready to Play!
- Relay Cabinets
- Battery Box
- Defect Detector
- Flange Lubricator
Product description
"Mainline Auto Crossing Gate" with red flashing signal and gate that drops when train passes by.
- Product Type :Model
- Package Dimensions :37.846 Cm L X24.13 Cm W X5.842 Cm H
- Country Of Origin :China
- Package Weight :1.0Lbs
User questions & answers
| Question: | is this for o gauge |
| Answer: | Target is the main store to find them and occasionally Walmart. the play set has always been $100 but target discounted it to under $40 over the holidays. The starter pack can be found for $20 as well. |
| Question: | How do you wire this to work on track? Cant get it to work right |
| Answer: | 1:64 |
| Question: | Does this crossing gate work with Fas Track or only with standard track? The photo shows it with standard track |
| Answer: | Yes it does but it is not that powerful so you need to be close and square to the target. A good way to get hit with real cars. I use mine for nitro cars and it's risky with them too. |
| Question: | Does this crossing gate work with the Pennsylvania Flyer remote control train set |
| Answer: | It was pretty good with speeding cars and school busses in our neighborhood and probably ok for baseball. However, remember it is a toy and is probably not 100% accurate. |
Product description
This item has special shipping requirements. Please see our shipping information page for more details. Grand Valley includes all the SubTerrain, Terrain and Landscaping items you will need to build this huge 4x8-foot layout. Use Risers and Inclines to create hills, mountains and low-lying areas on your layout. Use Foam Sheets to make flat, elevated areas for towns and buildings. Cover with Plaster Cloth for a hard terrain covering. Then make and install rocks and add tunnel portals and culverts. Landscape with a wide variety of ground cover, trees, accent details and other scenery products for a great layout. (Buildings, vehicles and track not included)
- Grand Valley Layout
- For use with your scale model railroad
User questions & answers
| Question: | is this ho scale an what comes with it |
| Answer: | It comes with all you need to kake the layout except the table, track, and trains. This is mine. I have a few videos on youtube with the layout progress https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dzA3-KSZbc&lc=z22zjdlojzzccpv3xacdp435jaolej2c401wpfodxddw03c010c |
| Question: | Are you able to stet this up to run two differant trains at the same time (using track blocks"), two differant power packs and toggle switches |
| Answer: | I don't think so, my son said it's one circuit. But he does have switches set up to move cars to a siding, etc. |
| Question: | So no track comes with it but is there a track kit that you can buy for it or how do you find out what track pieces you need |
| Answer: | Atlas does have the track pack out, i bought one from ebay streamline hobbies, i paid $95 for it, Atlas item 589 and this track pack has all tracks, iI personnel bought this first before i bought the layout kit. |
| Question: | Without the trees, what is the overall finished height of the layout at the far corner above the tunnels |
| Answer: | I am waiting for a track package so, not that far. |
Product description
Plasticville U.S.A. pieces add character and dimension to your O scale layout. City growth is limited only by your imagination.
- Un-assembled Plasticville U.S.A. building kit
- Parts molded in color
- O scale train
- Compatible with all brands of O scale trains
- Create realistic scenes by combining Plasticville U.S.A. buildings and accessories
User questions & answers
| Question: | How many inches will this span? Also, can it be used in a curve with 18" Radius Bachmann EZ Track |
| Answer: | yes early spring is the best time to plant. |
| Question: | Scale in Details reads HO, in product description reads O. Which is it |
| Answer: | No, you can store them in a dry container for a year, maybe two. |
| Question: | Will this fit lionel fastrack |
| Answer: | The app is called hot Wheels ID |
| Question: | Does this bridge just sit over existing track? Or is there track attached to it |
| Answer: | You can scan your cars using a Bluetooth enabled smart phone. To do so, you will need to enable Bluetooth, press the "scan" button, and place the car over the near field communication ("NFC") reader on your mobile device. For additional support, please reach out to our Consumer Services team. Phone support is available at 800-524-8697, Mon.- Fri., 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. EST. |
Product features
Discover Everything Bachmann Trains Offers to Get Started in Model Railroading
Since 1833, Bachmann has been known for providing innovative design at a good value. We are now one of the world's largest distributor, by volume, of ready-to-run train sets, locomotives, track, and accessories. Bachmann is also the only train company to offer products in all five of the most popular scales: N, HO, On30, O, and Large Scale.
As a distributor of beloved Thomas & Friends products, Bachmann brings the adventures of Thomas the Tank Engine to life with a growing line of complete train sets, separate sale items, and accessories for children from 8 to 80-just add your imagination. Thomas & Friends is available in both HO and Large Scale.
Bachmann's exclusive snap-together E-Z Track System makes track setup quick, easy, and fun. Plasticville U.S.A. and SceneScapes buildings and accessories let you add the finishing touches for the perfect layout.
If You Are Purchasing a Train Set, It Will Include
- Locomotive
- Cars (Rolling Stock)
- E-Z Track – available in either black roadbed with steel alloy rail or gray roadbed with nickel silver rail
- Terminal/Rerailer
- Terminal Wire
- Speed Controller
- Power Supply
- List of Components
Track Assembly
- Decide where to set up your train – a dry, firm, flat surface works best!
- To make sure you have enough working room, make a test track layout by loosely placing track in desired configuration.
- The terminal/rerailer section will later be connected to a power pack and power supply, so place it near an outlet or power strip.
- Install under-track magnet, if your set comes with one. If your set does not come with one, magnets are available separately (HO Item No. 78999; N Scale Item No. 78998).
- Assemble the track by pushing together. Make sure the rail and joiners are seated properly. Be careful that the rail joiners do not slip under the rail without properly connecting. This can cause train derailments and electrical circuit interruptions.
- After track is assembled, double-check for joint connection and fit by lightly running your fingers over the top of the rails in both directions.
- If you detect bumps or distortion on the track surface, recheck the rail joiner fit.
Power Connections
- Power supply and speed control are plug and play; no tools are needed.
- Power is supplied to the track and the locomotive by the power supply, speed controller, terminal wire, and E-Z Track terminal/rerailer.
- First – turn knob on the speed controller counterclockwise until it stops (all the way to the left).
- Next – attach terminal wire to the speed controller by plugging it in where it says 'To Track'.
- Then – plug terminal wire into the E-Z Track terminal rerailer. Firmly push connector onto the track terminals.
- Finally – plug the connecting wire from the power supply into jack on the speed controller labeled 'In'. Then plug power supply into a live wall outlet.
- Some sets may come with a speed controller with two push button connectors. These are used to supply AC power to accessories.
- To make positive and secure connections to these, push in buttons and insert each of the bare ends of the connection wire from your accessory.
- The speed controller is capable of powering one accessory at a time.
Putting the Train on the Track
- Put the locomotive on the track and run the wheels back and forth over the terminal rerailer track.
- When the wheels glide smoothly over the track, you know the wheels are all on the track. If your set comes with a tender, attach it to the locomotive.
- Add the rest of the cars that come with your set by placing them on the track and running them back and forth over the terminal rerailer until they glide smoothly. Then gently push the cars together – they will engage automatically.
- Do not try to connect cars when positioned over an under-track magnet.
How to Use E-Z Mate Couplers (HO and On30 Scale)
- Your set may be equipped with E-Z Mate magnetically operated knuckle couplers that let you perform real railroad switching and yard operations.
- Coupling two cars with E-Z Mate couplers is as easy as pushing them together when they are not over an under-track magnet.
- Uncoupling occurs only when over an under-track magnet and when there is no tension between the cars.
- To uncouple E-Z Mate couplers, stop two couplers directly over the under-track magnet. With no tension between the cars, the couplers will open automatically.
- If cars will not couple, check to be sure cars are not positioned over the uncoupling magnet or parked on a curve.
- If cars will not uncouple, check to be sure the couplers are positioned directly adjacent to the magnet position indicator and that the indicator is placed in line with the center line of the under-track magnet.
- Check that the magnet is secured to the underside of the track and fitted with the steel plate provided.
How to Run Your Train
- Turn the knob on the speed controller clockwise until it stops (all the way to the left).
- Plug in the power supply.
- Begin feeding power to the track by slowly turning the knob on the speed controller clockwise.
- Observe the direction of your train.
- If it moves backwards when the controls indicate forward, stop the train.
- Then simply disconnect, flip, and reconnect the terminal wire to the terminal rerailer track.
- Remember – never leave your train running unattended!
Action Checklist (Troubleshooting If Your Train Doesn’t Run or Stops Running)
- Is the power supply plugged in to a live receptacle?
- Are the wheels on the track?
- Is the wiring secure?
- Is the track properly assembled?
- Is the track properly seated in the rail joiner?
- If your train stops or fails to start, a short circuit may be indicated. If this is the case, Unplug The Power Supply Immediately.
- Common reasons for a short circuit: derailed wheels may cause a short. Check to make sure all wheels are on the track. Also check all connections and make sure there is no metal of any sort across the rails.
- After checking everything carefully, resume operation.
- Please note, your power supply is protected by a circuit breaker that automatically resets after a short circuit is corrected.
- Allow up to 5 minutes for the circuit breaker to reset before resuming operation.
Keep Your Train in Top Operating Condition
- Works better after couple hours of break-in time.
- Train performs best under clean operating conditions.
- Clean wheels and a clean track ensure good electrical contact.
- After about every 8 hours of operation, wipe the track rails and exposed wheels with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Removal of black residue is normal.
- Do Not Use Steel Wool To Clean Your Track.
- Do not use common solvents, they may damage plastics - use track cleaner.
- After 24 Hours Of Use, Light Lubrication Is Required To Keep Train In Top Operating Condition. Bachmann E-Z Lube Or Other Hobby-Grade Lubricants Are Recommended.
Bachmann hopes you enjoy your train for many years to come!
Product description
Propane distribution facilities like the cornerstone central gas & supply kit are common throughout the country, receiving bulk shipments by rail and truck. The gas is easily converted into a liquid, which is then stored in insulated, cylindrical tanks. Commonly used for home and industrial heating, propane is also widely used as fuel for taxis, trucks and buses. This easy-to-build plastic kit is similar to dealerships from coast to coast, and similar storage and handling facilities can be found alongside railroad shops, grain elevators (elevators may also have nearly identical tanks for anhydrous ammonia storage, which can easily be modeled by shortening the two vent pipes) and many types of Industries. The kit includes the office, two storage tanks, pump houses, and smaller bottles and tanks typical of those used at rural homes. Office: 2-3/8 x 1-7/8" 6 x 4.7cm tanks - each: 5 x 3/4" 12.7 x 1.9cm loading shed: 7/8 x 7/8" 2.2 x 2.2 platform: 5/8 x 1/2" 1.5 x 1.27cm
- Two storage tanks, office and accessories
- Parts molded in appropriate colors
- Includes decal signs
- Item Package Dimension: 25.5" L x 13.0" W x 14.5" H
Product description
Bring your urban or countryside railroad to life with realistic SceneScapes products by Bachmann.
- Though suitable for all scales, the most common size/scale is denoted in the parenthesis after the size description
- 5 inches -6 inches (HO scale)
- 6 per box included
- Realistic color
- Natural texture
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do bottom of trees have their own "stand", to keep them upright |
| Answer: | 100 day. Thank you. |
Product features
Discover Everything Bachmann Trains Offers to Get Started in Model Railroading
Since 1833, Bachmann has been known for providing innovative design at a good value. We are now one of the world's largest distributor, by volume, of ready-to-run train sets, locomotives, track, and accessories. Bachmann is also the only train company to offer products in all five of the most popular scales: N, HO, On30, O, and Large Scale.
As a distributor of beloved Thomas & Friends products, Bachmann brings the adventures of Thomas the Tank Engine to life with a growing line of complete train sets, separate sale items, and accessories for children from 8 to 80-just add your imagination. Thomas & Friends is available in both HO and Large Scale.
Bachmann's exclusive snap-together E-Z Track System makes track setup quick, easy, and fun. Plasticville U.S.A. and SceneScapes buildings and accessories let you add the finishing touches for the perfect layout.
If You Are Purchasing a Train Set, It Will Include
- Locomotive
- Cars (Rolling Stock)
- E-Z Track – available in either black roadbed with steel alloy rail or gray roadbed with nickel silver rail
- Terminal/Rerailer
- Terminal Wire
- Speed Controller
- Power Supply
- List of Components
Track Assembly
- Decide where to set up your train – a dry, firm, flat surface works best!
- To make sure you have enough working room, make a test track layout by loosely placing track in desired configuration.
- The terminal/rerailer section will later be connected to a power pack and power supply, so place it near an outlet or power strip.
- Install under-track magnet, if your set comes with one. If your set does not come with one, magnets are available separately (HO Item No. 78999; N Scale Item No. 78998).
- Assemble the track by pushing together. Make sure the rail and joiners are seated properly. Be careful that the rail joiners do not slip under the rail without properly connecting. This can cause train derailments and electrical circuit interruptions.
- After track is assembled, double-check for joint connection and fit by lightly running your fingers over the top of the rails in both directions.
- If you detect bumps or distortion on the track surface, recheck the rail joiner fit.
Power Connections
- Power supply and speed control are plug and play; no tools are needed.
- Power is supplied to the track and the locomotive by the power supply, speed controller, terminal wire, and E-Z Track terminal/rerailer.
- First – turn knob on the speed controller counterclockwise until it stops (all the way to the left).
- Next – attach terminal wire to the speed controller by plugging it in where it says 'To Track'.
- Then – plug terminal wire into the E-Z Track terminal rerailer. Firmly push connector onto the track terminals.
- Finally – plug the connecting wire from the power supply into jack on the speed controller labeled 'In'. Then plug power supply into a live wall outlet.
- Some sets may come with a speed controller with two push button connectors. These are used to supply AC power to accessories.
- To make positive and secure connections to these, push in buttons and insert each of the bare ends of the connection wire from your accessory.
- The speed controller is capable of powering one accessory at a time.
Putting the Train on the Track
- Put the locomotive on the track and run the wheels back and forth over the terminal rerailer track.
- When the wheels glide smoothly over the track, you know the wheels are all on the track. If your set comes with a tender, attach it to the locomotive.
- Add the rest of the cars that come with your set by placing them on the track and running them back and forth over the terminal rerailer until they glide smoothly. Then gently push the cars together – they will engage automatically.
- Do not try to connect cars when positioned over an under-track magnet.
How to Use E-Z Mate Couplers (HO and On30 Scale)
- Your set may be equipped with E-Z Mate magnetically operated knuckle couplers that let you perform real railroad switching and yard operations.
- Coupling two cars with E-Z Mate couplers is as easy as pushing them together when they are not over an under-track magnet.
- Uncoupling occurs only when over an under-track magnet and when there is no tension between the cars.
- To uncouple E-Z Mate couplers, stop two couplers directly over the under-track magnet. With no tension between the cars, the couplers will open automatically.
- If cars will not couple, check to be sure cars are not positioned over the uncoupling magnet or parked on a curve.
- If cars will not uncouple, check to be sure the couplers are positioned directly adjacent to the magnet position indicator and that the indicator is placed in line with the center line of the under-track magnet.
- Check that the magnet is secured to the underside of the track and fitted with the steel plate provided.
How to Run Your Train
- Turn the knob on the speed controller clockwise until it stops (all the way to the left).
- Plug in the power supply.
- Begin feeding power to the track by slowly turning the knob on the speed controller clockwise.
- Observe the direction of your train.
- If it moves backwards when the controls indicate forward, stop the train.
- Then simply disconnect, flip, and reconnect the terminal wire to the terminal rerailer track.
- Remember – never leave your train running unattended!
Action Checklist (Troubleshooting If Your Train Doesn’t Run or Stops Running)
- Is the power supply plugged in to a live receptacle?
- Are the wheels on the track?
- Is the wiring secure?
- Is the track properly assembled?
- Is the track properly seated in the rail joiner?
- If your train stops or fails to start, a short circuit may be indicated. If this is the case, Unplug The Power Supply Immediately.
- Common reasons for a short circuit: derailed wheels may cause a short. Check to make sure all wheels are on the track. Also check all connections and make sure there is no metal of any sort across the rails.
- After checking everything carefully, resume operation.
- Please note, your power supply is protected by a circuit breaker that automatically resets after a short circuit is corrected.
- Allow up to 5 minutes for the circuit breaker to reset before resuming operation.
Keep Your Train in Top Operating Condition
- Works better after couple hours of break-in time.
- Train performs best under clean operating conditions.
- Clean wheels and a clean track ensure good electrical contact.
- After about every 8 hours of operation, wipe the track rails and exposed wheels with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Removal of black residue is normal.
- Do Not Use Steel Wool To Clean Your Track.
- Do not use common solvents, they may damage plastics - use track cleaner.
- After 24 Hours Of Use, Light Lubrication Is Required To Keep Train In Top Operating Condition. Bachmann E-Z Lube Or Other Hobby-Grade Lubricants Are Recommended.
Bachmann hopes you enjoy your train for many years to come!
Product description
This 17-piece set includes six parking meters, watchful meter-maid, manhole covers, fire hydrants, trash cans, resting benches, street corner mailbox and a vintage folding-door telephone booth.
- HO Scale
User questions & answers
| Question: | My husband is doing a hotwheels scenic set. Would this be the right size for hotwheels. You know the 1.00 cars |
| Answer: | It will work when wired to a FasTrack Accessory Activator Track (6-12029). The included 153C activator only works with traditional tube track. |
| Question: | Are these items HO scale |
| Answer: | I do not see why not. IT is powered by the track and is triggered the same way. I have used 4 of them with my TCC set with no problems,and they are triggered by a separate IR reader |
| Question: | Do u have h o scale |
| Answer: | Sure it should. It is dependent on the gauge or scale not the brand of train. This particular model is N Scale or guage. |
| Question: | Are these pre-painted |
| Answer: | yes! |
Latest Reviews
View all
Zebra Technologies Pens
- Updated: 02.02.2023
- Read reviews

Hip Hop Shoes
- Updated: 29.06.2023
- Read reviews

Cash Boxes
- Updated: 14.02.2023
- Read reviews

Dell Windows 10 Laptops
- Updated: 28.03.2023
- Read reviews

Digital To Analog Boxes
- Updated: 14.05.2023
- Read reviews









