Lionel Trains model set at Legacy Station

Welcome Aboard!
“No childhood should be without a train.” A motto from our past that we at Lionel believe still rings true today. Beginning with a Lionel train set, this hobby provides the flexibility of a construction set, the action of an electronic game, and a character all its own. Many Lionel products contain some very high-tech features. However, rather than remain stuck in front of a two-dimensional screen, young and old model railroaders alike can create a three-dimensional miniature world of their very own. As many seasoned model railroaders will attest, a railroad is never done–there is always more to build, add, or modify. With more variety than ever before, there are Lionel products to suit every budget. As we have for over 100 years, Lionel will be there for every step of your family’s lifelong journey down the rails.

GUAGE

Gauge On the real railroads as well as toy trains, gauge refers to the distance between the outside rails of the track. Lionel O gauge track systems—which include O, O-27, and FasTrack—all measure 1 ¼" between the outer rails. Any O gauge car or locomotive can ride on Lionel O gauge track, as long as the curve track used on your layout can accommodate your particular cars (see Minimum Curve section below).
Lionel G gauge track, which is wider than O gauge, supports G gauge cars and locomotives. Lionel S gauge track is narrower than O, and supports American Flyer and other S gauge cars.
Scale
Scale measures the relationship between a model and the real thing. Most Lionel cars generally measure about 1:48 scale. This relationship is approximate for the Lionel Traditional line of cars and locomotives, which typically can run on layouts with tight curves (like O-27 or O-31). Lionel Standard O freight cars and engines, which are made to be as exact as possible to 1:48 scale, oftentimes require a wider minimum curve, such as O-36 or more.

Minimum Curve
This measurement is very useful in purchasing track, locomotives, and rolling stock that are compatible with one another. For example, assemble O-72 curved track into a circle and you will have a 72" diameter layout. Assemble O-31 curved track into a circle, and you will have a layout 31" in diameter. Lionel TrainBookA locomotive with a Minimum Curve requirement of O-31 will run on a layout with O-72 curves, but a locomotive with a Minimum Curve requirement of O-72 will not run on a layout with O-31 curves. For more information on easy layout planning, see The Lionel Train Book found on page 203.

Recommended Minimum Curve
Our locomotives and rolling stock are thoroughly tested to determine their Minimum Curve requirement. In some cases, a car or locomotive may be able to easily negotiate most, but not all, possible track configurations for that Minimum Curve. For these products, a Recommended Minimum Curve is also given. This larger measurement allows for all combinations of our track and switches.

OPERATION
Transformer Control
All Lionel locomotives—from the most sophisticated to the most basic—can be controlled by a standard transformer. Even older transformers can run our most advanced models.

Lionel LEGACY Control System
This revolutionary control system allows you to run your LEGACY Control System equipped locomotive just like a real engineer runs his trains. With its enhanced sounds and 200 speed steps, this system allows properly equipped engines to function with unparalleled options. The CAB-2 Remote Controller has an LCD screen display, vibration that simulates the effort of the locomotive, and other exciting operating features.

LEGACY Speed Control
Slow speed and start-up operation are smooth and steady with LEGACY Speed Control. Watch your locomotive as it creeps through the yard or fights up a grade without hesitation.

TrainMaster Command Control
Locomotives equipped with the classic TrainMaster Command Control system are controlled by commands from your CAB-1 or CAB-2 Remote Controller. ElectroCouplers, basic sounds, and multiple unit lash-ups are all at your fingertips as you walk around your layout.

Odyssey System
Paired with classic TrainMaster Command Control, locomotives equipped with the Odyssey System maintain your speed up grades and around curves.

We have taken the time to explain guage and basic operation on this page. Please feel free to call us with specific questions or use the email link at the bottom of the page. Listed on the left side are some links to our sets and accessories. If you are looking for something specific, please let us know. Be careful when order track. New trains come with FasTrack and the older trains have track with brown ties or black ties. Therack with brown ties is the O 27 track and the black ties is O track.

Lionel trains and train sets at Legacy Station