Editing Z scale (section)

== Drawbacks ==
[[File:VECRR-VEEturntable.jpg|thumb|"Val Ease East" division yard scene showing scratch-built Russell snow plow and detailed Mogul on the turntable.]]
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 {{convert|20|g|oz|2|abbr=on}}), 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 modelers who are interested in prototypical operations{{snd}}in particular, switching.

The low weight of Z scale locomotives contributes to their difficulty pulling trains up grades. In practice, the [[grade (slope)|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{{snd}}tungsten powder (used in metal golf club driver heads) and lead are popular choices.<ref name="ztraction">[http://www.zscale.org/articles/traction.html Improving Locomotive Traction], Zscale.org</ref>

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 [[Putting-out system#Cottage industry|cottage industries]].{{Citation needed|date=June 2012}}