Why don't more modellers fit smoke generators to their engines?

Smoke generators are a great idea for introducing an extra level of realism to your locomotives. The concept is simple enough, you can buy a kit containing a smoke generating chimney with two wires attached to connect to your locomotive, some instructions and a bottle of oil to get you started. So why are so many modellers reluctant to install one?

Well, it is true enough that connecting one is easy, you simply connect the smoke generator's wires (one positive and one negative) to the pickups on your locomotive, then pop a few drops of oil down the chimney, turn on the controller and watch the steam (smoke) flow. However, most models today will present you with one major problem; space.

Not only does your model have to provide you with enough space to cram a generator in. That space will also have to be vertical, so unlike finding a space for a decoder or sound chip where any crevice will do, it must also be a space of specific size, located directly under the model's chimney and vertical. The likelihood of meeting those criteria is slim, but not completely unheard of.

So how do some modellers achieve it?

Often modellers that fit smoke generators are very experienced, they are willing, fearless and knowledgeable enough to alter or adapt their prized models (and sometimes they are just lucky when it comes to available space).

But if you fancy giving it a go, why not try it as an experiment with an old unloved engine first, after all, how else are you going to become willing, fearless and knowledgeable!