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Questions tagged [trains]

A popular choice among AFOLs for building their own creations, Trains are now a sub-theme of LEGO City.

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46 votes
3 answers
34k views

Can LEGO City Powered Up trains be automated?

I have a LEGO City train set (60336): The set includes a remote control as well as an app that can be used to control the train. Is it possible to automate the operation of LEGO City trains, ideally ...
jncraton's user avatar
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33 votes
1 answer
41k views

What different types of LEGO train tracks exist?

I would like to purchase some used LEGO train tracks off of ebay. I am not, however, very familiar with the different choices of track systems are out there that I might come across. So I would like ...
Jessica Brown's user avatar
22 votes
3 answers
7k views

How to build bridge using 4.5/12v train rails from 1969 Lego brochure

I am interested in building a bridge for my layout and stumbled upon this forum post in which user 'Istokg' posted a picture of a train bridge made from the blue rails used in the pre-1980s train sets....
mcqwerty's user avatar
  • 3,518
18 votes
1 answer
3k views

What piece is this? It's a hard one, and a very small one. It's 2x1 I believe, and it could possibly be an accessory

This is the piece I'm looking for, because I'd like to build this microscale train myself. It may very well be the handles of two levers glued to the rest of the train, but I really don't want to ...
Stephen's user avatar
  • 291
17 votes
3 answers
5k views

Can I remotely control the points on PF train tracks?

I'm interested in investing in power functions based trains, but want to automate switching points. Is this possible? What is the cheapest / easiest way of achieving this?
Kramii's user avatar
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17 votes
1 answer
3k views

Starting out with trains: PF, RC, 9v or what?

I've always wanted Lego trains as a child, but never had any. However, now my son is old enough to appreciate them, I thought I might invest in some 2nd hand sets. The problem is, what standard to ...
Kramii's user avatar
  • 9,081
16 votes
4 answers
37k views

What advanced railroad features are possible with the Lego PF train sets?

I recently got my first train set, the Constitution Chase, and it has sparked my imagination for building train layouts. My 3-year-old son has a small collection of wooden trains and we enjoy building ...
Mr. Shiny and New 安宇's user avatar
16 votes
1 answer
5k views

Why was the monorail system discontinued?

I'm a casual Lego enjoyer and decided to research some old sets and found out about the old monorail system. My question is why was it discontinued? It was a pretty neat system and I could see ...
redfrogcrab's user avatar
16 votes
2 answers
5k views

Is there an API for the Duplo 10874 train set?

I intend to buy this train set for my daughter. Apparently, the locomotive can communicate with an app via a bluetooth connection. My question is: is there any documentation available so that I can ...
Talence's user avatar
  • 161
16 votes
2 answers
2k views

Will playing with a PF train motor by hand damage it?

If one pushes a PF-motorized train by hand, will it cause damage to the motor, or any of the other parts (IR Receiver, Battery box)? It is essentially working as a generator when turned by hand, so ...
greye's user avatar
  • 513
16 votes
2 answers
2k views

Is it safe to overload LEGO train motors?

When I was in Fana'Briques in 2008, there was a speed record competition for TGV-themed train. The setup used a section of custom-made straight track (aluminium rails if I remember correctly) and was ...
Joubarc's user avatar
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15 votes
4 answers
2k views

Is "public transport" train compatable with Lego City track?

Among other things, set 8404 contains a train but it doesn't come with any track pieces (see set 7499). Is this train compatible with these Lego City tracks? I see where it's more of an electric ...
William Grobman's user avatar
15 votes
2 answers
3k views

How tall is a Lego train on a track?

I cannot currently access any Lego trains, and the product range offered in the trains category in these years is rather ... disheartening. Nonetheless, I do not rule out the possibility that things ...
O. R. Mapper's user avatar
  • 1,918
15 votes
2 answers
1k views

Is it possible to add the power functions to Western Train Chase?

I recently got the Red Cargo Train and it's a great Lego set but a Cars themed train going around my Christmas tree would be even better. Has anyone gotten the power functions to work on the Western ...
tooshel's user avatar
  • 2,468
15 votes
3 answers
9k views

What's the best way to link two (or more) LEGO Power Functions (PF) train motors together?

Last Christmas I built an extended Emerald Night train to run around the tree. To get it to work I had to add a second Power Functions motor. I tuned both IR receivers to the same frequency and slowly ...
craigmoliver's user avatar
  • 1,749
14 votes
4 answers
696 views

Train level crossing using 2021 road plates

I'm interested in integrating a train level crossing into a city layout using the new road plates, but I've been struggling to figure out the best way to do this. Here's an example level crossing for ...
jncraton's user avatar
  • 38.8k
14 votes
2 answers
16k views

Multiple Powered Up trains on 1 Bluetooth controller?

My daughter got a Passenger Train for Christmas and I converted one of my old 9v trains to run using the powered up system. Is it possible to run the 2 trains independently or concurrently (preferably ...
Stereo's user avatar
  • 143
14 votes
1 answer
2k views

What is the centre hole for in modern train tracks?

LEGO train tracks have 3 holes in each of the segments: I understand the two outer holes are used with a throw-away piece to keep them stacked while shipping, but what is the center hole for? Is it ...
Josh B's user avatar
  • 243
14 votes
1 answer
3k views

Will Duplo trains fit onto a regular 6 stud LEGO track?

There's a thread here establishing that regular LEGO trains arguably fit onto Duplo track, but have trouble with underbelly clearance. What about the opposite? Will a Duplo train fit onto six-stud ...
Robert Columbia's user avatar
14 votes
2 answers
10k views

Do regular Lego trains fit onto Duplo tracks?

I have a small kid and a bunch of LEGO Duplo train track. (Like what's in this set.) Would "grown up" sets, like the Emerald Night or Maersk trains, work on that track? They look pretty close (the ...
Brian Ashe's user avatar
14 votes
2 answers
849 views

What kind of metal/alloy were on the old LEGO 9V train tracks?

LEGO's train tracks (the actual rail part) were made from some kind of metal alloy that does not seem to oxidize, and seems to have good electrical charateristics (low resistance). Any ideas what ...
mikl's user avatar
  • 1,350
14 votes
2 answers
1k views

Trains overview image

I'm looking for an overview image of all trains ever released by LEGO. With trains I mean train sets containing locomotives and wagons that run on train tracks. There is a beautiful image from Jeroen ...
jerone's user avatar
  • 241
13 votes
6 answers
4k views

Can I build a faster LEGO train motor?

I was going over LEGO Power Functions train motors, and I was not satisfied with the speed. Speed seven is fast enough to derail the train on the curve, but not fast enough realistically. I am ...
Taylor Garrett's user avatar
13 votes
3 answers
8k views

Can I use the old 4.5V and 12V blue/gray era rails with newer trains?

I have a bunch of old 12v track. I am looking to get my son into LEGO, but I am thinking of getting the remote set so we can expand it some more. My question is, can I connect the new track to the ...
Glenn's user avatar
  • 131
12 votes
3 answers
7k views

Software to do Duplo train track layout?

Anyone know a way to create with a software DUPLO train track layout? The only thing I found is: http://www.anyrail.com/index_en.html It's a bit overkill for what I need and it's $US60, although ...
DarkPixel's user avatar
  • 163
12 votes
1 answer
2k views

What is the maximum distance between fixed train wheels?

I'm working on a train, and I'm curious what the maximum distance is between fixed wheel sets in order to properly navigate all of the different types of track (straight, curved, switch, flex, etc). ...
jncraton's user avatar
  • 38.8k
12 votes
1 answer
404 views

What is the length of a DUPLO train bridge?

I'm trying to plan a DUPLO train track layout to order but I currently don't own any pieces. I'd like to include a bridge like the one in set 3774, but I'm unsure if it will fit my layouts. Can ...
André Fernandes's user avatar
12 votes
1 answer
5k views

How many hours of travel does it take to wear out LEGO monorail tires?

I've seen some pretty impressive LEGO tire driven/cushioned monorail displays that put miles of wear on the track and the train cars that ride on it. I'm hoping a monorail expert can tell me (about) ...
Major Stackings's user avatar
12 votes
1 answer
851 views

How can the 12v Train 7823 Container Depot be used to load container ships as per Lego Catalogue

As I kid I was always confused by the description of the 7823 Container Depot in the Lego Catalogues: ..."The crane can be raised so container ships can be loaded." An example can be seen in this ...
mcqwerty's user avatar
  • 3,518
11 votes
3 answers
8k views

How does the DUPLO Action Bricks work?

Does anybody knows what is the technology the DUPLO Action Bricks are based on?It is not any RFID or NFC because I printed out the white one on normal white paper which turns lights on/off. The symbol ...
Josef B.'s user avatar
  • 113
11 votes
1 answer
13k views

Website with layout plans for LEGO Duplo trains?

Can anybody suggest a web site with plans for LEGO Duplo trains? I've searched the net for a while without any interesting results. Any hints appreciated!
Isle of the Kakapo's user avatar
11 votes
1 answer
2k views

What is the difference between train motors 88002 and 10153?

I want to motorize my Santa Fe Super Chief. Its original instruction mentions 5300 but it's marked obsolete on BS.com and now re-released as 10153. In the same time 88002 costs few times less, e.g. $...
abatishchev's user avatar
11 votes
3 answers
957 views

Are the blue and grey 12v train system compatible?

Are the two generations of 12v train compatible? Eg can you combine a "blue" remote controlled point and a "grey" 12v transformer? Main motivation for this: I have a complete "grey" set of trains, ...
wap26's user avatar
  • 215
11 votes
3 answers
1k views

What was the 12v AC socket for on the 7864 transformer?

The 7864 transformer had, in addition of the main regulated outlet for controlling trains and a fixed 12v DC for plugging in remote controls and lights, a third socket available which provided 12v AC. ...
Joubarc's user avatar
  • 21.1k
11 votes
1 answer
519 views

What is the purpose of the discontinuity in the DUPLO train bridge rack?

DUPLO bridge elements include racks to allow the powered trains to be able to make the climb. An example of this is element 35138: I noticed that the gear rack on this element is not continuous at ...
jncraton's user avatar
  • 38.8k
11 votes
1 answer
223 views

12V LEGO train tracks splinter

I have an older 12V LEGO train (several actually) but of course the rubber tires wore out long ago. The trains still run quite well (I even used them as a motor parts in some Technic designs), but the ...
StarShine's user avatar
  • 211
10 votes
1 answer
2k views

What are black sausage pieces used for in Crocodile Locomotive set 10277?

After assembly I have these 5 pieces left. Should I have put them somewhere? I can't find any missed step that would use them. So why are these there at all?
Mołot's user avatar
  • 1,409
10 votes
2 answers
4k views

How does the cost of a LEGO railroad compare to a traditional scale railroad layout?

How do the costs compare between a railroad layout constructed with LEGO trains and a nearly identical layout using traditional scale models, such as HO?
Village's user avatar
  • 737
10 votes
3 answers
11k views

What parts are really required to motorize 10219 Maersk Train?

The Official site detailed page states that: Motorize your Maersk train by adding LEGO Power Functions #8878 Rechargeable Battery Box, #8887 Transformer 10V DC, #8884 IR Receiver, #8879 IR Speed ...
abatishchev's user avatar
10 votes
3 answers
6k views

How to run "Power Functions" devices from an electric wall plug?

In this video showing an example of Great Ball Contraption (GBC), we can see (at 1:35) that some trains powers are used to run Power Functions motors: That must be more convenient than having to ...
A.L's user avatar
  • 467
10 votes
2 answers
1k views

Alternative (back of box) builds of 7822 Railway Station - is there an 'official' configuration where the track terminates at the station?

I am looking for a scan or photo of the back of the box of the 7822 Railway Station Background: As is common with Lego sets, there are a number of alternative builds pictured on the back of the set ...
mcqwerty's user avatar
  • 3,518
10 votes
2 answers
3k views

Battery for Trains

For those who have tried, which one is a better option: Rechargeable Battery Box and Transformer/Charger 10VDC ($50 + $25) or AAA Battery Box and a lot of AAA batteries ($13 + ?) Obviously $75 is ...
Farhan's user avatar
  • 389
10 votes
1 answer
4k views

Why are there 4 wires leading to the Power Functions LEGO train motor?

Does anyone know what the wires do? If the Power Functions train motors are simple DC only 2 wires would be needed or is it more complex than that?
Quorneng's user avatar
  • 211
10 votes
2 answers
1k views

How to lubricate the 4.5v train motor for set 7722?

How I can lubricate the 4.5v train motor on my #7722 train set? It squeals.
Nick's user avatar
  • 101
9 votes
4 answers
3k views

Are there plans to release new trains for AFOL?

I just built the Maersk train, what an amazing model! I did a little research and found that it was released in 2011 and the Emerald Night was released in 2009. Given the two year gap it seems ...
craigmoliver's user avatar
  • 1,749
9 votes
3 answers
6k views

How many flexible tracks does it take to make a complete oval?

I have couple of straight tracks, no curved tracks, so the only option now from me is to buy the new 7499 straight + flexible tracks. Therefore: How many boxes of 7499 tracks do I need to make a ...
Antonio Serutti's user avatar
9 votes
5 answers
6k views

How to disassemble the propulsion wheels of the LEGO/DUPLO train engine base part# 28743 drivetrain?

I have a push and go motor, also known as Hub No5 model also known as engine base part #28743 The issue I have is that the train can not climb the bridge anymore, unless using the locomotive alone ...
HpTerm's user avatar
  • 223
9 votes
3 answers
3k views

Simplest approach for rail sets automation

How would you tackle the automation of a lego rails set. I am looking for a solution that can be achieved with available parts. From the answer I will chose either to invest into lego rail sets for ...
Coyote's user avatar
  • 1,326
9 votes
1 answer
5k views

LEGO Trains 12v: Identify This?

This is a very popular picture, which almost all LEGO Trains' fans from the 1980s would recognize. I have the train in the foreground, 7740, but not the 4th car (the red one). Can anyone please ...
Farhan's user avatar
  • 389
9 votes
2 answers
605 views

Duplo Locomotive: What is this inner part used for?

Background I was forced to completely disassemble a duplo locomotive. My son played with it in a sand box and, guess what, it was not working anymore. I used a small brush to clean every single part (...
Benoit's user avatar
  • 193