Japanese #13 (finescale 1:80) difficulties

[catcliffedemon]

Hi, I'm new to the forum and I'm looking to take my first steps into the wonderful world of Japanese railway modelling.

 

Japanese 1:80/HO uses 16.5mm track but I'm interested in the challenges of modelling the correct gauge of 13.375mm (scale 1,067mm). This is obviously a huge difference and I'd like to know if there is much of a following for these standards. According to Wikipedia there is scale/gauge combination known as #13 (for 1:80 on 13mm gauge track), which is a step in the right direction. However, I'd be amazed if ready-to-run HO locomotives from the likes of Kato, Tomix and Micro-Ace would accept wheels spaced 3.5mm closer without serious modification.

[harukablue]

Hi models IMON are finescale 13mm manufacturers and also 1/87 on finescale track, take a look at their web site, http://www.imon.co.jp/ and use a translation tool to translate. I am sure that most of the model that are ready to run by the large makers can be easily converted to run on narrow gauge track.

[miyakoji]

Magnificent models, but the prices make me want to cry.

[catcliffedemon]

Haha, yes, I have a Japanese acquaintance in Kawasaki who collects HO scale Ajin-produced brass. The models are wonderful, but well out of my price range!

[Nick_Burman]

Hi, I'm new to the forum and I'm looking to take my first steps into the wonderful world of Japanese railway modelling.

 

Japanese 1:80/HO uses 16.5mm track but I'm interested in the challenges of modelling the correct gauge of 13.375mm (scale 1,067mm). This is obviously a huge difference and I'd like to know if there is much of a following for these standards. According to Wikipedia there is scale/gauge combination known as #13 (for 1:80 on 13mm gauge track), which is a step in the right direction. However, I'd be amazed if ready-to-run HO locomotives from the likes of Kato, Tomix and Micro-Ace would accept wheels spaced 3.5mm closer without serious modification.

 

Aclass has kits to convert their models to #13 gauge. So far this applies only to rolling stock.

 

 

Cheers NB