Model Railroad Trains: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Model Train Track Curves
Model train track curves may seem like a simple issue, but there can be much more to track curves than meets the eye. Track curves on model railroad layouts require some planning and knowledge of a few relevant issues.
Model train track curves may seem like a simple issue, but there can be much more to track curves than meets the eye. Track curves on model railroad layouts require some planning and knowledge of a few relevant issues.
Best Scale
What scale, or size, of model trains is best?
What scale, or size, of model trains is best?
Model Train Track Grades
Track grade is the slope of a railroad track. The track grade is expressed as the percentage of its rise for the length of its run. For example,if you have 100 inches of model railroad track, and the train climbs one inch, then the grade is 1%. So when 25 inches of track rise 1 inch the grade is 4%. Maximum grade is the steepest slope your trains can climb. Well planned grades can make a layout interesting. Badly planned ones can be a disaster.
Track grade is the slope of a railroad track. The track grade is expressed as the percentage of its rise for the length of its run. For example,if you have 100 inches of model railroad track, and the train climbs one inch, then the grade is 1%. So when 25 inches of track rise 1 inch the grade is 4%. Maximum grade is the steepest slope your trains can climb. Well planned grades can make a layout interesting. Badly planned ones can be a disaster.
Scales for Children
Are you confused about the sizes of toy trains? Here's a guide to choosing the scale, or size, of an electric train set for a child. This article focuses on cost and available space as the primary concerns and proposes smaller electric train scales, resulting in more track layout options for your available space, as a method of maintaining a child's interest in their train sets. When starting a child in model railroading the size of trains can make all the difference.
Are you confused about the sizes of toy trains? Here's a guide to choosing the scale, or size, of an electric train set for a child. This article focuses on cost and available space as the primary concerns and proposes smaller electric train scales, resulting in more track layout options for your available space, as a method of maintaining a child's interest in their train sets. When starting a child in model railroading the size of trains can make all the difference.
Choosing a Train Set
Tips for finding the perfect train set to adorn your Christmas display, give to a young railroader, or get started on the hobby of a lifetime.
Tips for finding the perfect train set to adorn your Christmas display, give to a young railroader, or get started on the hobby of a lifetime.
Tomix N Scale Thomas
N scale Thomas the Tank Engine and friends are manufactured by the Japanese model train company Tomix. They offer Thomas, Henry, James, and Percy models in N scale.
N scale Thomas the Tank Engine and friends are manufactured by the Japanese model train company Tomix. They offer Thomas, Henry, James, and Percy models in N scale.
Model Railroad Planning
These best practices will improve any design.
These best practices will improve any design.
Train Table Construction
Assembly instructions, materials and tools lists for building a simple 4 foot by 8 foot model train table with storage shelf.
Assembly instructions, materials and tools lists for building a simple 4 foot by 8 foot model train table with storage shelf.
DCC Overview
Here is an overview of Digital Command Control (DCC), a system that utilizes digital computer technology for controlling model railroad trains. DCC in model railroading has been around for a decade now and, as the terms used in this technology have defined a new language for the model railroading community, this overview is intended to serve as a primer for beginners.
Here is an overview of Digital Command Control (DCC), a system that utilizes digital computer technology for controlling model railroad trains. DCC in model railroading has been around for a decade now and, as the terms used in this technology have defined a new language for the model railroading community, this overview is intended to serve as a primer for beginners.
Monopoly Railroads
Everybody knows the railroads in the game Monopoly are the Pennsylvania, B&O, Reading, and Short Line. But how many people realize that three of the four were real railroads?
Everybody knows the railroads in the game Monopoly are the Pennsylvania, B&O, Reading, and Short Line. But how many people realize that three of the four were real railroads?
Assembling Your First Train
Introduction for basic train set assembly instructions.
Introduction for basic train set assembly instructions.
Minimum Curve Standards
Your minimum curve depends on your scale, prototype and personal preference.
Your minimum curve depends on your scale, prototype and personal preference.
Bus and Feeder Wires
Tips for choosing and installing electrical wiring busses and feeders for all types of model trains.
Tips for choosing and installing electrical wiring busses and feeders for all types of model trains.
NCE Power Cab
Product review of the NCE Power Cab DCC system.
Product review of the NCE Power Cab DCC system.
Thomas the Tank Engine
Thomas the Tank Engine delights children everywhere. Here are Thomas toy trains that are real electric trains instead of push toys.
Thomas the Tank Engine delights children everywhere. Here are Thomas toy trains that are real electric trains instead of push toys.
Track: Integrated Roadbed
Integrated roadbed track is defined as any track attached to a roadbed. This track makes assembling a model railroad train layout much easier. Many people erroneously refer to this type of track as snaptrack, snap track, or snap-track. However, SnapTrack is a brand name for a track with no integrated roadbed. Today children's toy train sets benefit from the use of integrated roadbed track. Here is a list of brands, scales, and types of integrated roadbed track for your electric trains.
Integrated roadbed track is defined as any track attached to a roadbed. This track makes assembling a model railroad train layout much easier. Many people erroneously refer to this type of track as snaptrack, snap track, or snap-track. However, SnapTrack is a brand name for a track with no integrated roadbed. Today children's toy train sets benefit from the use of integrated roadbed track. Here is a list of brands, scales, and types of integrated roadbed track for your electric trains.
Model Railroading 101
What every beginner needs to know about model railroading.
What every beginner needs to know about model railroading.
Model Railroad Track Setup
How to lay model railroad track and connect its power supply.
How to lay model railroad track and connect its power supply.
Turnouts
Model railroad switches, just like real-life railroad switches are used to route rail traffic. In model
Model railroad switches, just like real-life railroad switches are used to route rail traffic. In model
Children's Toy Train Tables
Here are some children's train table and train board space planning ideas. A toy train table or train board can be used to keep a child's toy train track layout intact between play-sessions. This helps avert the tedium of having to put away track between uses, which may detract from a child's enjoyment of their electric trains.
Here are some children's train table and train board space planning ideas. A toy train table or train board can be used to keep a child's toy train track layout intact between play-sessions. This helps avert the tedium of having to put away track between uses, which may detract from a child's enjoyment of their electric trains.
Track Types
An overview of model railroad track types and codes including an explanation of track code numbers and rail metal types.
An overview of model railroad track types and codes including an explanation of track code numbers and rail metal types.
spur
: A spur is a railroad track on which cars are left for loading and unloading. Spurs are also used sometimes
: A spur is a railroad track on which cars are left for loading and unloading. Spurs are also used sometimes
Your Train Won't Run
steps to take to troubleshoot and repair a model train that will not run
steps to take to troubleshoot and repair a model train that will not run
Model Railroad Track Easements
Easements can be simulated using segmented model railroad track pieces. A true easement is a parabolic curve. This means its radius is different at any point along it's path. Unless you are using flex-track, model railroad track curves have fixed radii. But you can simulate an easement by placing segments of smaller radii inside of segments with greater radii when building your curves.
Easements can be simulated using segmented model railroad track pieces. A true easement is a parabolic curve. This means its radius is different at any point along it's path. Unless you are using flex-track, model railroad track curves have fixed radii. But you can simulate an easement by placing segments of smaller radii inside of segments with greater radii when building your curves.
Parents' Guide to Toy Trains
A primer on toy trains, electric trains and model railroading for parents. Topics include when to start children on electric trains, how available space is a primary concern in the selection of a train, and how to utilize electric trains as an educational tool.
A primer on toy trains, electric trains and model railroading for parents. Topics include when to start children on electric trains, how available space is a primary concern in the selection of a train, and how to utilize electric trains as an educational tool.
Steam Locomotive Classes
A list of steam locomotive classes
A list of steam locomotive classes
ESM X-58
Product review of the ESM X58 class N scale boxcar model.
Product review of the ESM X58 class N scale boxcar model.
O Scale
Introduction to O scale model trains.
Introduction to O scale model trains.
San Diego Model Railroad Museum - Tehachapi Pass
Every picture tells a story, and these inspire us to the best our hobby has to offer.
Every picture tells a story, and these inspire us to the best our hobby has to offer.
N Scale
Introduction to N scale model trains.
Introduction to N scale model trains.
Helix
A helix is the ultimate train elevator and always a center of attention on a model railroad. Although intimidating, even a large helix is a very manageable project.
A helix is the ultimate train elevator and always a center of attention on a model railroad. Although intimidating, even a large helix is a very manageable project.
About O Scale
O Scale in model railroading explained.
O Scale in model railroading explained.
Model Railroad Space Planning
An overview of space planning for model railroad train layouts and types of space allocation for model train layouts.
An overview of space planning for model railroad train layouts and types of space allocation for model train layouts.
Trundle Bed Train Platform
Build a train platform that can roll under a bed for storage. This can be used for electric trains or wooden train toys.
Build a train platform that can roll under a bed for storage. This can be used for electric trains or wooden train toys.
Ripping Plywood
Use a circular saw to help make benchwork for a model train platform.
Use a circular saw to help make benchwork for a model train platform.
Lay Flex Track
Explains flex track and how it is used.
Explains flex track and how it is used.
HO / OO Scale
Introduction to HO and OO scale model trains.
Introduction to HO and OO scale model trains.
Choosing a Scale
A discussion of factors influencing a model railroader's choice of scale.
A discussion of factors influencing a model railroader's choice of scale.
Track Pieces
Regardless of the scale you are working in, individual model railroad track components fall into six
Regardless of the scale you are working in, individual model railroad track components fall into six
Reverse Loops
A special toggle switch is all you need to add a reversing loop to your DC control model railroad.
A special toggle switch is all you need to add a reversing loop to your DC control model railroad.
N Scale Model Train Couplers
Couplers are an important consideration when buying N scale model railroad trains. You need to make sure the couplers on your locomotives and cars are compatible.
Couplers are an important consideration when buying N scale model railroad trains. You need to make sure the couplers on your locomotives and cars are compatible.
Install DCC Decoder
Simple instructions for installing a DCC decoder.
Simple instructions for installing a DCC decoder.
Making Paved Roads
Introduction and materials lists for modeling paved roads.
Introduction and materials lists for modeling paved roads.
Weathering Techniques
Hub of articles for various weathering techniques to age model trains.
Hub of articles for various weathering techniques to age model trains.
Soldering Tips - Track / Wire
Tools needed for soldering on model trains.
Tools needed for soldering on model trains.
New to Model Railroading
How to make informed choices when buying your first model railroad equipment.
How to make informed choices when buying your first model railroad equipment.
Planning a Helix
Planning a helix for a model railroad takes time and patience, but good plans can avoid costly construction mistakes later.
Planning a helix for a model railroad takes time and patience, but good plans can avoid costly construction mistakes later.
L-Girder Benchwork
L-girder benchwork can be built with a variety of common building materials.
L-girder benchwork can be built with a variety of common building materials.
G Gauge
Introduction to G gauge model trains.
Introduction to G gauge model trains.
ExactRail Berwick 7327 Boxcar
ExactRail HO Berwick 7327 boxcar model review
ExactRail HO Berwick 7327 boxcar model review
Model Layout Foam Insulation
A tip about sculpting landscape on a model railroad layout using rigid foam insulation. Links to a series of YouTube videos demonstrating the sculpting of this kind of foam insulation.
A tip about sculpting landscape on a model railroad layout using rigid foam insulation. Links to a series of YouTube videos demonstrating the sculpting of this kind of foam insulation.
Backdrops
Learn how to add effective backdrops to any model railroad scene.
Learn how to add effective backdrops to any model railroad scene.
Model Train Vacations
Portable z scale model railroads are small enough to take on any trip.
Portable z scale model railroads are small enough to take on any trip.
S Scale
S scale is defined as 1:64 or 3/16ths of an inch to one foot. S gauge track is an unusual 0.884 inches. This article is an overview of S scale and S gauge, including the History of S scale and modern S scale manufacturers in both three-rail AC and two-rail DC varieties. S scale is frequently regarded as synonymous with American Flyer trains, which were made by A.C. Gilbert who originated S scale and S gauge.
S scale is defined as 1:64 or 3/16ths of an inch to one foot. S gauge track is an unusual 0.884 inches. This article is an overview of S scale and S gauge, including the History of S scale and modern S scale manufacturers in both three-rail AC and two-rail DC varieties. S scale is frequently regarded as synonymous with American Flyer trains, which were made by A.C. Gilbert who originated S scale and S gauge.
Easements and Superelevation
Understanding superelevation and easements for track curves.
Understanding superelevation and easements for track curves.
Maximum Grade Standards
Standards for the steepest grades your model trains can climb.
Standards for the steepest grades your model trains can climb.
Block Wiring
Wiring tracks for block control - attaching feeders and making connections to the switches.
Wiring tracks for block control - attaching feeders and making connections to the switches.
TT Scale: American Orphan
TT scale is defined as 1:120 or ten feet to the inch scale. TT gauge track has rails spaced 12mm. TT scale was introduced to American model railroading by H.P. Products in 1946. This article is an overview of TT scale, including the History of TT scale, modern German and other Eastern European TT scale manufacturers, and some thoughts on the future of the exotic TT scale.
TT scale is defined as 1:120 or ten feet to the inch scale. TT gauge track has rails spaced 12mm. TT scale was introduced to American model railroading by H.P. Products in 1946. This article is an overview of TT scale, including the History of TT scale, modern German and other Eastern European TT scale manufacturers, and some thoughts on the future of the exotic TT scale.
Spring Mills Depot Canstock Boxcar
Manufacturer's Site A Canstock Car is a boxcar specifically designed for hauling large rolls of aluminum
Manufacturer's Site A Canstock Car is a boxcar specifically designed for hauling large rolls of aluminum
Gluing Scenery
Materials and tools to add scenery to model train layouts and dioramas.
Materials and tools to add scenery to model train layouts and dioramas.
EMD E6 Profile
Prototype history of EMD's E6 diesel locomotive and a list of available scale models.
Prototype history of EMD's E6 diesel locomotive and a list of available scale models.
Classification Yard Planning
Advice for planning a more efficient and prototypical freight classification yard for a model railroad.
Advice for planning a more efficient and prototypical freight classification yard for a model railroad.
On30 Model Trains
O scale trains and HO gauge track make a great combination for a variety of users.
O scale trains and HO gauge track make a great combination for a variety of users.
Replacing Wheels
Instructions for replacing wheels on model trains.
Instructions for replacing wheels on model trains.
Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Trestle
A gallery of images featured in the About.com Model Railroad Trains blog Wordless Wednesday posts.
A gallery of images featured in the About.com Model Railroad Trains blog Wordless Wednesday posts.
HO Knuckle Couplers
Listing of HO knuckle coupler manufacturers and products.
Listing of HO knuckle coupler manufacturers and products.
Digitrax Zephyr DCC System
The Digitrax Zephyr all-in-one DCC system is perhaps the most powerful DCC starter system for the money.
The Digitrax Zephyr all-in-one DCC system is perhaps the most powerful DCC starter system for the money.
Troubleshooting Poor Operation
Troublshooting tips for correcting poor or sporadic operation of model trains
Troublshooting tips for correcting poor or sporadic operation of model trains
Track Occupancy
Track occupancy detectors allow you to know where you trains are even when you can't see them. They are also essential elements in prototypical signalling systems.
Track occupancy detectors allow you to know where you trains are even when you can't see them. They are also essential elements in prototypical signalling systems.
Z Scale
Introduction to Z scale model trains.
Introduction to Z scale model trains.
Modeling Water
Adding Water begins with preparing the surface below.
Adding Water begins with preparing the surface below.
Building a Helix
Joining the arc segments must be done with care to avoid horizontal or vertical kinks that can affect the trackwork to come.
Joining the arc segments must be done with care to avoid horizontal or vertical kinks that can affect the trackwork to come.
Finishing Track
Make your track as realistic as the trains you run on it.
Make your track as realistic as the trains you run on it.
Weathering with Chalks
Techniques for aging models with powdered chalks.
Techniques for aging models with powdered chalks.
Modeling Rust
Adding the base coat of lighter rust.
Adding the base coat of lighter rust.
Athearn Genesis GP15
Athearn's brand new HO scale GP15 sets a new bar for detail and performance for models of this popular road switcher locomotive.
Athearn's brand new HO scale GP15 sets a new bar for detail and performance for models of this popular road switcher locomotive.
Fox Valley Models 7-Post Boxcar
Product review of Fox Valley Models Soo Line 7-Post boxcar.
Product review of Fox Valley Models Soo Line 7-Post boxcar.
Troubleshooting Model Trains
Introduction to troubleshooting tips for model trains.
Introduction to troubleshooting tips for model trains.
Gondola Loads
From precast to homemade, there are lots of options for realistic loads for gondola cars.
From precast to homemade, there are lots of options for realistic loads for gondola cars.
Narrow Gauges
A guide to model railroading narrow gauges.
A guide to model railroading narrow gauges.
Kit Assembly Basics
Kit Assembly Basics
Kit Assembly Basics
Night Backdrop
There's more to making a night sky than black paint.
There's more to making a night sky than black paint.
O Scale Issues
Three Reasons I Don't Recommend O Scale for Children's toy train sets.
Three Reasons I Don't Recommend O Scale for Children's toy train sets.
RR Crossing Details
Add details to a railroad crossing scene to make it more realistic.
Add details to a railroad crossing scene to make it more realistic.
Girls Model Train Set
A marketing debacle in the late 1950s, the Lionel Girls' Model Train Set is a sought-after collectors item today.
A marketing debacle in the late 1950s, the Lionel Girls' Model Train Set is a sought-after collectors item today.
Benchwork Tools
Tools helpful for building model railroad benchwork
Tools helpful for building model railroad benchwork
Appraising Model Trains
What's my old train worth? Learn where to find the answers to this common question.
What's my old train worth? Learn where to find the answers to this common question.
Standard Gauge
: As with prototype trains, gauge is the measure of the distance between the rails. Standard Gauge has
: As with prototype trains, gauge is the measure of the distance between the rails. Standard Gauge has
Blackstone Models K-27
Product review of Blackstone Models HOn3 K-27 steam locomotive.
Product review of Blackstone Models HOn3 K-27 steam locomotive.
Classification Yard
The difference between an efficient classification yard and an operations nightmare is all in the planning. Learn the steps to design the right yard for your purpose.
The difference between an efficient classification yard and an operations nightmare is all in the planning. Learn the steps to design the right yard for your purpose.
Display Board
Build a simple display board for model trains as a fun project or learning experience.
Build a simple display board for model trains as a fun project or learning experience.
Train Set Track
Describes proper steps to assemble track in model train set
Describes proper steps to assemble track in model train set
How a DCC Decoder Works
A somewhat technical overview of how a DCC decoder works in a model railroad train locomotive. DCC (Digital Command Control) decoders are tiny, complex electronic devices that not only contain computer control systems, but power management as well.
A somewhat technical overview of how a DCC decoder works in a model railroad train locomotive. DCC (Digital Command Control) decoders are tiny, complex electronic devices that not only contain computer control systems, but power management as well.
Thomas DCC Guide
Links to DCC Decoder installation guides for the Thomas the Tank Engine locomotives.
Links to DCC Decoder installation guides for the Thomas the Tank Engine locomotives.
Prototype Empty Boxcar
If you've got an empty freight car and are looking for an inspiring load, take a look at these prototypes and models.
If you've got an empty freight car and are looking for an inspiring load, take a look at these prototypes and models.
Lighting Buildings
Choosing the right bulb is essential to getting the most out of any lighting project.
Choosing the right bulb is essential to getting the most out of any lighting project.
Knuckle Couplers
Description of knuckle couplers available for model trains, including brief prototype history.
Description of knuckle couplers available for model trains, including brief prototype history.
Powering Switch Frogs
Adding power to a switch frog is as simple as connecting three wires.
Adding power to a switch frog is as simple as connecting three wires.
Modeling Water with Plexiglas
A sheet of Plexiglass makes modeling water easy.
A sheet of Plexiglass makes modeling water easy.
Building a Paper Hotel Kit
Introduction to building paper model kits with a Walthers hotel.
Introduction to building paper model kits with a Walthers hotel.
Power Supply
Outlines steps to hook up power supplies for model train sets.
Outlines steps to hook up power supplies for model train sets.
Model Railroad Scenery - Add a River and Bridge to Your Layout
Add the excitement of a river and bridge to your model railroad layout step-by-step.
Add the excitement of a river and bridge to your model railroad layout step-by-step.
Benchwork for Bridges
Make room for a bridge by modifying the platform, or benchwork.
Make room for a bridge by modifying the platform, or benchwork.
Kato Connectors
Kato Connectors: How to make extensions and adapters for Kato wiring using mini tamiya and koyosho connectors.
Kato Connectors: How to make extensions and adapters for Kato wiring using mini tamiya and koyosho connectors.
Staging Yards
Staging Yards have many uses, espescially if you choose to operate like the prototype.
Staging Yards have many uses, espescially if you choose to operate like the prototype.
Electrical Tools
Tools for model railroading electrical projects.
Tools for model railroading electrical projects.
Scale
definition of scale
definition of scale
Couplers
List of coupler types and tips for modeling, operating and converting different couplers in multiple scales.
List of coupler types and tips for modeling, operating and converting different couplers in multiple scales.
Supporting the Span: Abutments and Piers
Add proper supports for your bridge with abutments and piers.
Add proper supports for your bridge with abutments and piers.
DRGW Trackplan
A simple trackplan for a 4 foot by 8 foot model railroad depicting the narrow gauge Denver and Rio Grande Western in HO scale.
A simple trackplan for a 4 foot by 8 foot model railroad depicting the narrow gauge Denver and Rio Grande Western in HO scale.
Fiber Optic Lights
Potential uses for fiber optic lighting effects on model train layout layouts.
Potential uses for fiber optic lighting effects on model train layout layouts.
narrow gauge
The definition of narrow gauge as applied to railroading is any track whose gauge (space between the rails) is less than that of standard gauge (4ft. 8.5in.).
The definition of narrow gauge as applied to railroading is any track whose gauge (space between the rails) is less than that of standard gauge (4ft. 8.5in.).
IHC
A profile of International Hobby Corporation, an American manufacturer of HO scale model railroad trains and accessories.
A profile of International Hobby Corporation, an American manufacturer of HO scale model railroad trains and accessories.
Model Railroad Waybills
Understanding waybills and how they make model rsilroading more interesting and realistic.
Understanding waybills and how they make model rsilroading more interesting and realistic.
Cleaning Model Trains
How to clean model trains.
How to clean model trains.
Corrugated Roofing
Modeling common corrugated metal roofs and sidings in any condition using plastic and aluminum foil.
Modeling common corrugated metal roofs and sidings in any condition using plastic and aluminum foil.
Making Forests
Making miniature forests - building the trunks
Making miniature forests - building the trunks
Faded Paint Weathering
How to apply paint with an airbrush to fade the paint on model trains
How to apply paint with an airbrush to fade the paint on model trains
Helix Prototypes
Even an extreme construction like a helix is not without a prototype in railroading. Get inspiration for your model grades.
Even an extreme construction like a helix is not without a prototype in railroading. Get inspiration for your model grades.
Superior Interior
Every picture tells a story, and these inspire us to the best our hobby has to offer.
Every picture tells a story, and these inspire us to the best our hobby has to offer.
Add a Grade
Most real railroads aren't flat, our models don't have to be either. Adding a grade to a model railroad takes a little planning but offers big rewards in operation and appearance when done correctly.
Most real railroads aren't flat, our models don't have to be either. Adding a grade to a model railroad takes a little planning but offers big rewards in operation and appearance when done correctly.
Open Grid Train Platform
Diagram for a basic open grid train platform.
Diagram for a basic open grid train platform.
Detailing Tinplate Track
Improving the look of older O Gauge and S Gauge track with roadbed, ties and ballast.
Improving the look of older O Gauge and S Gauge track with roadbed, ties and ballast.
Hopper Loads
Coal, stone and ore loads are among the most typical loads for hopper car models.
Coal, stone and ore loads are among the most typical loads for hopper car models.
TOFC Modeling
Ideas for modeling TOFC (Trailer on Flatcar) trains, equipment and operations.
Ideas for modeling TOFC (Trailer on Flatcar) trains, equipment and operations.
Union Pacific's Bailey Yard
Every picture tells a story, and these inspire us to the best our hobby has to offer.
Every picture tells a story, and these inspire us to the best our hobby has to offer.
Customizing Models
Customizing model trains for better operation and appearance creates unique models. This article introduces the various techniques that are easy to learn, one car at a time.
Customizing model trains for better operation and appearance creates unique models. This article introduces the various techniques that are easy to learn, one car at a time.
Prototype Planning
Modeling from the prototype can be a rewarding challenge. Learn how to capture the character of any scene for your layout.
Modeling from the prototype can be a rewarding challenge. Learn how to capture the character of any scene for your layout.
BTTB TT Scale Starter Set
The Berliner TT Bahnen USA. Set, a German TT scale train set from the 1980s, is an unusual collector's piece in America and an interesting introduction to TT scale model railroading.
The Berliner TT Bahnen USA. Set, a German TT scale train set from the 1980s, is an unusual collector's piece in America and an interesting introduction to TT scale model railroading.
Early Model Trains
early live steam model train at the National Toy Train Museum.
early live steam model train at the National Toy Train Museum.
Choosing the Right Bridge
Choosing the right bridge to fit your space is the first step.
Choosing the right bridge to fit your space is the first step.
Simple Signal Circuit
A simple signal circuit for bi-diectional signals for model trains.
A simple signal circuit for bi-diectional signals for model trains.
Adding Riverbanks - Framing the Scenery
Add river banks and scenery to the water's edge and plant the bridge in the scene.
Add river banks and scenery to the water's edge and plant the bridge in the scene.
Layout Choices
Choosing the right prototype and design for a model railroad as seen in the Rio Grande Narrow Gauge project layout.
Choosing the right prototype and design for a model railroad as seen in the Rio Grande Narrow Gauge project layout.
Miniature Lighting Projects
Miniature lighting projects for model railroad layouts.
Miniature lighting projects for model railroad layouts.
Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Layout
Train crossing a trestle on Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Layout
Train crossing a trestle on Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Layout
Install Switch Motor
Keep everything in line during these last steps and trouble-free operation is easy.
Keep everything in line during these last steps and trouble-free operation is easy.
Installing Backdrops
Backdrops greatly improve the look of a model railroad. The first step is installing a smooth vertical surface for painting.
Backdrops greatly improve the look of a model railroad. The first step is installing a smooth vertical surface for painting.
Install Streetlights
There are many varieties of lighting accessories available for model trains. Choose the right one for your layout.
There are many varieties of lighting accessories available for model trains. Choose the right one for your layout.
Installing Uncoupling Magnets
Uncoupling magnets allow automatic uncoupling of knuckle couplers without using your hands. Magnets work with most tracks and scales and are easy to install.
Uncoupling magnets allow automatic uncoupling of knuckle couplers without using your hands. Magnets work with most tracks and scales and are easy to install.
Freight Car Photos
Freight car photos compliled from the weekly Freight Car Friday blog, grouped by car type. Get the inspiration for your next modeling project here!
Freight car photos compliled from the weekly Freight Car Friday blog, grouped by car type. Get the inspiration for your next modeling project here!
Install Uncoupling Magnets
Uncoupling magnets allow automatic uncoupling of knuckle couplers without using your hands. Magnets work with most tracks and scales and are easy to install.
Uncoupling magnets allow automatic uncoupling of knuckle couplers without using your hands. Magnets work with most tracks and scales and are easy to install.
Miniature Cornstalks
Model a realistic cornfield in HO or larger scales.
Model a realistic cornfield in HO or larger scales.
Ceiling Tile Rocks
Stack the broken ceiling tile chunks to create realistic rock cliffs.
Stack the broken ceiling tile chunks to create realistic rock cliffs.
CSX 7812 - The Spirit of America
Every picture tells a story, and these inspire us to the best our hobby has to offer. CSX 7812 leads a coal train across Raccoon Creek bridge.
Every picture tells a story, and these inspire us to the best our hobby has to offer. CSX 7812 leads a coal train across Raccoon Creek bridge.
journal box
The definition of journal box as applied to railroading is a box on the hubs of railcar wheels which hold oil for the axle's journal bearings.
The definition of journal box as applied to railroading is a box on the hubs of railcar wheels which hold oil for the axle's journal bearings.
Athearn profile
Profile of Athearn model trains.
Profile of Athearn model trains.
fixing track
Learn the steps to find and correct problems with model railroad track.
Learn the steps to find and correct problems with model railroad track.
Drybrushing
Make subtle additions to a model with this simple paint technique.
Make subtle additions to a model with this simple paint technique.
Do's and Don'ts for Parents
Specific things parents need to think about when buying electric trains and other toy trains for children.
Specific things parents need to think about when buying electric trains and other toy trains for children.