page_title: Z scale
section_title: Drawbacks
hierarchical_section_title: Z scale / Drawbacks
caption_attribution_description: English: "Val Ease East" turntable and yard scene showing a 2-6-0 "Mogul" steam locomotive being turned. A scratch-built Russell snow plow sits on a turntable spur. Scene shot on the Val Ease Central Railroad (VECRR) layout in Z-scale (1:220).
context_page_description: Z scale is one of the smallest commercially available model railway scales, with a track gauge of 6.5 mm / 0.256 in. Introduced by Märklin in 1972, Z scale trains operate on 0–10 volts DC and offer the same operating characteristics as all other two-rail, direct-current, analog model railways. Locomotives can be fitted with digital decoders for independent control. Model trains, track, structures, and human/animal figures are readily available in European, North American, and Japanese styles from a variety of manufacturers.
context_section_description: Due to the small size of Z scale and, in particular, the low weight of the locomotives (a small Z scale engine can weigh as little as 20 g (0.71 oz)), it can be challenging to ensure reliable operation. In particular, the track must be kept clean, as minuscule particles of dust, dirt, or corrosion can easily stop locomotives. Poorly-installed trackwork can be a source of consistent derailing of rolling stock (although this is true, to some extent, in any scale). All of this can create issues for modellers who are interested in prototypical operations – in particular, switching.
  The low weight of Z scale locomotives contributes to their difficulty pulling trains up grades. In practice, the grade is kept under 2% for reliable operation of trains up to seven, four-axle cars; shorter trains can operate on grades up to 4%.  Pulling power of locomotives can be increased by use of traction tires, or by adding weight using high-density material – tungsten powder (used in metal golf club driver heads) and lead are popular choices.
  The smaller market for Z scale results in a limited range of available products, including both rolling stock and accessories; some of the demand is therefore met by cottage industries.
caption: "Val Ease East" division yard scene showing scratch-built Russell snow plow and detailed Mogul on the turntable.
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