I am trying to create a diorama of an abandoned track line with a weathered and abandoned logging or mining car left on the track. My original intent was to use O scale rolling stock but they are a tad too large for the size of my diorama. When I went on line to look for smaller logging or mining rolling stock, I noticed many are in the On30 gauge. From what I gather, On30 rolling stock are O scale items but using tracks equivalent to HO. I know in the real world many logging and mining companies used narrow gauge track for their businesses. Here are my questions: Would using an ON30 piece on a narrow gauge track look out of place on a diorama that will use a tunnel portal, trees, etc all in O scale? Would using a narrow gauge rolling stock and track actually be a more accurate depiction than using an O scale/gauge track and rolling stock? Any advice would be helpful
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Logging and mining companies used either standard or narrow gauge equipment depending on their circumstances. O scale scenery would be appropriate. If using a tunnel portal, I personally would seek out an S Scale timber or stone portal, as a standard O portal might look a bit big as narrow gauge equipment is smaller. But there are exceptions to that rule, which is part of the charm of narrow gauge.
...From what I gather, On30 rolling stock are O scale items but using tracks equivalent to HO. I know in the real world many logging and mining companies used narrow gauge track for their businesses. Here are my questions: Would using an ON30 piece on a narrow gauge track look out of place on a diorama that will use a tunnel portal, trees, etc all in O scale? Would using a narrow gauge rolling stock and track actually be a more accurate depiction than using an O scale/gauge track and rolling stock? Any advice would be helpful
Yes, On30 uses O scale locomotives and rolling stock operating on HO gauge track, which represents 30" narrow gauge (prototype).
Any O scale accessories would be proper for On30, including runnel portals, buildings, figures, trees, etc.
If you intend to combine standard gauge prototype with narrow gauge prototype in O scale, the combination of regular O gauge track and On30 track (most use HO track) is entirely appropriate.
Thanks, guys. This website is so good for informative answers.
Another route if space is at a premium is to go with O-9 which is O scale running stock but on N gauge track.
This is something I'm working on now.
James
Another route if space is at a premium is to go with O-9 which is O scale running stock but on N gauge track.
This is something I'm working on now.
James
I did not know their was a O scale car that would run on N scale track. We are in the process of taking down our 3 rail layout but the new one I was planning on having a narrow gauge with our 3 rail line. My 1st thought was On30 but I like the kits you have shown. I did look at their website, not sure how hard it is to order one or find one as of yet. Thanks for the new direction I may take. Nick