Railroad Forums 

  • Getting started with NJ Transit

  • Discussion related to everything about model railroading, from layout design and planning, to reviews of related model tools and equipment. Discussion includes O, S, HO, N and Z, as well as narrow gauge topics. Also includes discussion of traditional "toy train" and "collector" topics such as Lionel, American Flyer, Marx, and others. Also includes discussion of outdoor garden railways and live steamers.
Discussion related to everything about model railroading, from layout design and planning, to reviews of related model tools and equipment. Discussion includes O, S, HO, N and Z, as well as narrow gauge topics. Also includes discussion of traditional "toy train" and "collector" topics such as Lionel, American Flyer, Marx, and others. Also includes discussion of outdoor garden railways and live steamers.

Moderators: 3rdrail, stilson4283, Otto Vondrak

 #66992  by liquidskin
 
Hi. Recently had an incredible urge to get into model trains. Id like to get started with a NJ Transit model. Thing is, I cant seem to find these anywhere... also, im not exactly sure of what im looking for. Keep in mind, im new to this. What would you guys reccomend for me, someone who is looking to get into modelling njt. Thanks.

 #67008  by Otto Vondrak
 
Welcome to the hobby, and welcome to our site! We're glad to have you aboard!

Have you ever had any experience with model trains before? Be prepared for a little bit of a sticker shock when it comes to the prices of some of these models. Also, if you are going to be running passenger trains, you will need to have some fairly broad curves. Train set track usually comes with 18" radius curves, you will need something at least 22" or broader to allow for reliable operation.

If you are totally new to model railroading, I would like to suggest you find yourself a good reliable train shop where you can get to know the people there, and find some books for beginners. There are some great books that go through step-by-step how to create your first model railroad. From building a base, to laying track, to electrical hook-up, to scenery and more.

You asked specifically about NJT models- I assume you meant for HO scale? You have a few options. Walthers, a major model railroad distributor, offers NJT coaches and cab cars:

http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/932-6072
http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/932-6082

Your other options are listed here: http://www.hobokenterminal.com/models.html

Word of warning- just because you find a model decorated for NJT doesn't mean that NJT actually had one in real life.

For specific questions about NJT, please visit our New Jersey Transit forum.

-otto-

 #67156  by mlrr
 
I would also suggest an ALP44 made by Atlas. They still linger in hobby shops, but try and pick one up fast. The best way is to search for them online for the best deals.

try: www.toytrainheaven.com. I think I saw one listed for about 60 or 70 as opposed to 135 and change as the list price.

You may also be able to find NJT F40PH locomotives. I think Bachmann Spectrum has a run and I know Walthers had done a run of these. Again, the best place to search is online.

Definately follow Otto's suggetstions! My suggestions are for building your roster.

Welcome to the hobby and good luck!
 #67614  by RiverMP21
 
liquidskin wrote:Hi. Recently had an incredible urge to get into model trains. Id like to get started with a NJ Transit model. Thing is, I cant seem to find these anywhere... also, im not exactly sure of what im looking for. Keep in mind, im new to this. What would you guys reccomend for me, someone who is looking to get into modelling njt. Thanks.
I've got a fairly complete list of all produced NJT models on my website, at http://www.hobokenterminal.com - click on "Virtual & Model Trains"

Welcome!