RADIO-CONTROLLED LGB

I am struggling to set up a LGB train to work using a FlySky 2.4ghz radio-control system. I have the transmitter and receiver, but what else do I need?

Nigel, by email

Editor: Thiscan only be general advice, as it varies depending on the loco you are planning to power, but the basic concepts are the same for all models. I should also point out that I’ve not carried out this conversion myself, but the principle is the same as the model boats I’ve fitted out.

You’ll need the FlySky transmitter and receiver, a battery and speed control. For model boat work, I’ve always been happy with the Viper range (www.mtroniks.net) as they are reliable even after taking a dip underwater – something you shouldn’t need to worry about with a loco!

Thespeed control includes instructions, but essentially, you plug the signal wire into the receiver, then attach the battery to the speed control (it has a Tamiya style plug) and the motor wires to the motor.

Choosing a battery will largely depend on the space available in the loco. Put it in the cab of a Toy Train or Stainz and your options are reasonable. I’d avoid LiPo batteries if you aren’t confident charging them, but otherwise, a NiCad, or better still NiMh, would be fine. Go for the maximum capacity you can fitin the model. You may also want to disconnect the track pickup skates while poking around in there. Of course, there will be people reading this that disagree, probably with more experience. I’d love to hear more, so if that’s you, please write in.

Final thought – as I say in my editorial, this is a friendly hobby. Why not see if someone at your local G-scale or 16mm scale group can offer some hands-on advice? We all have to start somewhere, and there’s no reason not to ask.