Are HO scale trains just a size of the parts or is it a compatability or both? What I really want to know is can you run any HO scale train on any HO scale track?
In theory any model train that says it is HO will be. You really would be best to talk to a hobby store such as ourselves when looking for ‘model’ trains. Our experience is that many toy ‘Train Sets’ are sold by large retailers with no interest or knowledge of what they are selling. HO trains are all built to the same standards. Quality and finish can vary. HO trains are built to 1:87 scale. (3.5mm to 1 foot) 16.5mm gauge between the rails. Some production standards have changed over the last fifty years. However all HO trains should run without difficulty on modern HO track, and with each other. The National Model Railroad Association sets the standards for model train scales and engineering. Model Railroad Industry Association. Most manufacturers are members and build HO trains to NMRA standards. Compatibility between makes is assured, ( at present there is a move to introduce magnetic couplers, so do check or ask.) Previously NMRA couplers were universal. Most models will now come w
