Model Railroad Projects and Techniques
By Ryan Kunkle, About.com Guide
- Planning and Design
- Benchwork
- Get on Track
- Wiring and Electronics
- Detailing Model Train Locomotives and Cars
Planning and Design
Layout planning and design can be a hobby unto itself. A good plan can also be the launching pad for a great model railroad. And the planning doesn't stop just because construction begins.
- Planning a Model Railroad
- Planning from the Prototype
- Planning a Classification Yard
- Planning and Building Staging Yards
Benchwork
A good model railroad starts with a strong foundation. From simple train tables to multiple level engineering, sturdy benchwork is a base for a lasting and enjoyable layout.
- Build a Simple Train Table
- Build a Trundle Bed Train Platform
- Build L-Girder Benchwork
- Make Your Own Benchwork from Plywood
Get on Track
Good track is the key to reliable operations on any model railroad. Careful attention to detail here can pay big dividends for years to come.
- Techniques for Sectional Tracks
- Techniques for Flexible Tracks
- Improvements for "Tinplate" Track
- Curve Easements and Superelevation
Wiring and Electronics
Block control, DCC, lighting, sound...electricity brings a model railroad to life. Electronic projects can be very intimidating for beginners, but you don't need an advanced degree to apply the technologies you need to your model railroad.
- Bus and Feeder Wires for Your Model Railroad
- Soldering Tips for Model Trains
- Install a Switch Motor
- Wire Reverse Loops, Wyes and Turntables
- Install a DCC Decoder
- Install a Switch Decoder
- Lighting for Buildings and Scenery
- Inexpensive Lighting for Multi-Level Layouts
- Simple Signalling Circuit
Detailing Model Train Locomotives and Cars
Even with the plethora of beautiful models available today, many modelers take great pride in making their models unique. Something as simple as weathering to show age can make a dramatic difference in the look of a model. More ambitious projects include adding details, painting and decaling, or even building a model entirely from scratch.
Scenery
Nothing gives a model railroad personality like scenery. Whether you prefer towering mountain peaks or skyscrapers, high plains or coastal seaports, convincing scenery is within anyone's reach.
- Add a Bridge Scene to Your Railroad
- Hardshell Scenery
- Foam Scenery
- Ground Cover
- Static Grass
- Make Your Own Fallen Leaves
- Fast and Easy Rocks
- Model Paved Roads
- Model a RR Crossing
- Backdrops
- Hide Benchwork, Pipes and Other Details
- Miniature Cornfields
- Easy Forests
- Scratchbuild a Structure
- Make Chain Link Fencing
- Make Corrugated Metal Sidings and Roofs
- Modeling Night
Operations
You've made your trains and your layout look like the real world - now let's make it work like a real railroad. Prototypical-based operations can make any layout more interesting and can become a hobby within the hobby. Learn how to make your operations more realistic with waybills, interchanges, yards and more!
- Plan and Build a Classification Yard
- Planning and Building Staging Yards
- Add a Clean-out Track to Your Yard
- Improved Yard Operations with Pushpins
Modeler's Toolbox
The right tools can make all the difference. Get the tools you'll need to tackle any project.
- Modeler's Toolbox
- Maintaining Your Trains
- Cleaning and Oiling Steam Locomotives
- Easy Wheel Cleaners
- Model Trains Photography
Project Layout - Denver and Rio Grande Narrow Gauge
Build this HOn3 layout based on the narrow gauge Denver and Rio Grande Western from start to finish!