Tomica Sale | Fun with Plarail by the Singapore Uncle

This is a simple setup at single tier in an attempt to squeeze both the R-19 Auto 2 way switch and R-16 Auto 3 way switch within a floor area less than 2m X 2m.
It is for a single train and the train will eventually travel on every part of the setup.

The train that I am using is from the Odakyu Romancing Car Type 50000 Basic Type. SUPER VALUE FOR MONEY!!! Only cost SGD19.95 (some stores state it as a discounted price, anyway this is the price), and sold in most toyshops. Those I know are Kiddy Palace, Toys R Us, OG, Isetan, Takashimaya, Tom $& Stephanie, Toy Planet at Changi T3. The set comes with the train and 8 pieces of R-03 curved rail, just enough for you to make a circle. Since most trains start minimally at SGD29.95, I think it’s excellent value. =)

There are 2 modes that you can choose from the Auto switches, Manual and Auto (nautrally…). Manual allows you to switch tracks by pushing the lever. What’s really cool is the Auto mode. Everytime a train goes by, the lever will automatically switch lane, and this allows various complex routes that your train can take. In my setup above, my train can go on 4 routes.
Playing with the Auto switches, do note that when you split 1-2 or 1-3, you will eventually have to converge back to your main track.
For new players, I would recommend that you start with the R-19 auto 2 way switch first, as it is still a lot of fun, yet easy to connect. The R-19 set also comes with a 2-1 track (one of the 2 pieces in an R-13 pack) that will allow you to converge back onto your main track.

The R-16 splits 3 ways and does not come with any converging tracks, so you will have to get a bunch on your own in order to converge back onto the main track.
If you intend to invest in a bunch of tracks, this is definitely a MUST HAVE piece, cos the mechanism is really cool!!!

I got the Tomica Station & Crossing Set and the Tomica Service Centre set at a bundled price of $99 at OG. Personally I’m more of a Plarail guy but it’s a real steal. I must say I find the Tomica engines rather loud and it does not really blend with the Plarail system. But my kid is having a SMASHING! time with them, so that’s priceless.

Features of the Tomica Station & Crossing Set: There is a crossing for train and cars. By default, trains have the right of way. Cars are allowed to cross only when you push a button.