Model Railroad Trains: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
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.
Scales and Gauges
A model train's "scale" is the relationship between its size and the size of an actual train. "Gauge" is the distance between a train track's rails. Classic toy trains were made in larger scales and gauges, but smaller sizes are popular today. Here is a guide to model railroad scales and gauges.
A model train's "scale" is the relationship between its size and the size of an actual train. "Gauge" is the distance between a train track's rails. Classic toy trains were made in larger scales and gauges, but smaller sizes are popular today. Here is a guide to model railroad scales and gauges.
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.
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.
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.
Quality Model Railroad Sets
Quality model railroad train sets between $100 and $500.
Quality model railroad train sets between $100 and $500.
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.
Steam Locomotive Classes
A list of steam locomotive classes
A list of steam locomotive classes
Model Railroading 101
What every beginner needs to know about model railroading.
What every beginner needs to know about model railroading.
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.
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.
Track Pieces
This is a guide to model railroad track pieces. Individual model railroad track component pieces fall into six categories: straight, curve, flex, crossing, turnouts, and function tracks. Turnouts are also known as "switches", and in the UK referred to as "points".
This is a guide to model railroad track pieces. Individual model railroad track component pieces fall into six categories: straight, curve, flex, crossing, turnouts, and function tracks. Turnouts are also known as "switches", and in the UK referred to as "points".
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.
Turnouts
Model railroad switches, like those in real-life railroading, are used to route rail traffic. In model railroading, switches are most commonly referred to by the technical term "turnouts". In the UK rail switches are referred to as "sets of points". or just "points". Model railroad track switches are available in all scales, and various radii.
Model railroad switches, like those in real-life railroading, are used to route rail traffic. In model railroading, switches are most commonly referred to by the technical term "turnouts". In the UK rail switches are referred to as "sets of points". or just "points". Model railroad track switches are available in all scales, and various radii.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Setup and Run a Model Train
A beginner's guide to setting up and running a model train set.
A beginner's guide to setting up and running a model train set.
Narrow Gauges
A guide to model railroading narrow gauges.
A guide to model railroading narrow gauges.
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.
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.
HO Unitrack WGH Plan Set
Kato's HO Unitrack WGH Plan Set is an excellent Unitrack starter set for HO enthusiasts.
Kato's HO Unitrack WGH Plan Set is an excellent Unitrack starter set for HO enthusiasts.
Children's Layouts
Children with electric toy trains usually want to experiment with different ways to layout their tracks.
Children with electric toy trains usually want to experiment with different ways to layout their tracks.
About O Scale
O Scale in model railroading explained.
O Scale in model railroading explained.
ghost car
Definition of ghost car: a model railroad freight or passenger car equipped with a motor and drive wheels.
Definition of ghost car: a model railroad freight or passenger car equipped with a motor and drive wheels.
LGB
LGB stands for "Lehmann Gross Bahn", German for "Lehmann’s Big Train." LGB was the originator of G scale model railroading, sometimes referred to as garden scale. Manufacturing of LGB trains has been taken over by another German model train manufacturer, Marklin GmbH.
LGB stands for "Lehmann Gross Bahn", German for "Lehmann’s Big Train." LGB was the originator of G scale model railroading, sometimes referred to as garden scale. Manufacturing of LGB trains has been taken over by another German model train manufacturer, Marklin GmbH.
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.
InterMountain Railway Company
A profile of the InterMountain Railway Company, a manufacturer of railroad train models in both N and HO scales.
A profile of the InterMountain Railway Company, a manufacturer of railroad train models in both N and HO scales.
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.
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?
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.
Buying and Selling
How to buy and sell model railroad trains.
How to buy and sell model railroad trains.
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.
DCC Made Easy
A DCC primer and buyer's guide from Kalmbach Books.
A DCC primer and buyer's guide from Kalmbach Books.
E-Z Track Plans
Bachmann's track planning book for their HO Scale integrated roadbed model railroad E-Z Track System.
Bachmann's track planning book for their HO Scale integrated roadbed model railroad E-Z Track System.
AZL GS Locomotive Trains
AZL's Daylight trains give Z scalers their own Southern Pacific Morning Daylight trains.
AZL's Daylight trains give Z scalers their own Southern Pacific Morning Daylight trains.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Alco PA SP Daylight on East Valley Lines Layout
Kato N scale Alco PA in SP Daylight livery on the layout of the East Vally Lines N scale model railroad club in Los Angeles.
Kato N scale Alco PA in SP Daylight livery on the layout of the East Vally Lines N scale model railroad club in Los Angeles.
Woodland Scenics
Profile of Woodland Scenics a major manufacturer of model railroading scenery supplies and accessories. The Woodland Scenics company is the manufacturer of the SubTerrain foam system for sculpting the landscape of model train layouts.
Profile of Woodland Scenics a major manufacturer of model railroading scenery supplies and accessories. The Woodland Scenics company is the manufacturer of the SubTerrain foam system for sculpting the landscape of model train layouts.
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.
UK Scales and Gauges
Millimetre Based Model Railroading Scales and Gauges in the UK
Millimetre Based Model Railroading Scales and Gauges in the UK
Anaheim Special
The 2008 National Train Show, the Anaheim Special was a wonderful event. I particularly enjoyed the numerous layouts both modular and stand-alone. But finally meeting some of he manufacturer representatives with whom I've corresponded in my work as About.com's Model Railroad Guide was also a distinct pleasure.
The 2008 National Train Show, the Anaheim Special was a wonderful event. I particularly enjoyed the numerous layouts both modular and stand-alone. But finally meeting some of he manufacturer representatives with whom I've corresponded in my work as About.com's Model Railroad Guide was also a distinct pleasure.
Model Railroad Trains - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Model Railroad Trains guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the Model Railroad Trains guide site.
3-Rail Model Railroad Setup
How to lay three rail O scale model railroad track and connect its power supply.
How to lay three rail O scale model railroad track and connect its power supply.
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.
Narrowing WS Inclines
How to narrow Woodland Scenics incline foam for N and TT scale grading
How to narrow Woodland Scenics incline foam for N and TT scale grading
Athearn
A profile of Athearn Trains, an American manufacturer of HO and N scale model railroading products. The Athearn Trains company is a division of Horizon Hobby, Inc.
A profile of Athearn Trains, an American manufacturer of HO and N scale model railroading products. The Athearn Trains company is a division of Horizon Hobby, Inc.
Hundman Publishing
Major publisher of model railroading related periodicals and books.
Major publisher of model railroading related periodicals and books.
John Cater's On30 Porter Locomotive and Train
On30 Porter steam locomotive with scratchbuilt/kitbashed On30 railroad cars by modeler Dr. John Cater.
On30 Porter steam locomotive with scratchbuilt/kitbashed On30 railroad cars by modeler Dr. John Cater.
Reality Reduced TV
Reality Reduced is a series of podcasts on topics related to N scale model railroading.
Reality Reduced is a series of podcasts on topics related to N scale model railroading.
Running Model Railroad Trains
A tutorial on how to operate a model railroad train.
A tutorial on how to operate a model railroad train.
Model Railroad Trains - Profiles
An index of Profiles for the Model Railroad Trains guide site.
An index of Profiles for the Model Railroad Trains guide site.
timesaver
A time saver layout is defined as a small railroad yard layout used as a puzzle game. A switching locomotive is placed on the layout with a number of railroad cars. The cars are placed at diverse positions on the layout. The operator uses the locomotive to collect the cars from their different positions on various yard tracks and relocate them to positions designated as their finish points. The goal is to rearrange the cars in the least "moves" and/or the shortest amount of time.
A time saver layout is defined as a small railroad yard layout used as a puzzle game. A switching locomotive is placed on the layout with a number of railroad cars. The cars are placed at diverse positions on the layout. The operator uses the locomotive to collect the cars from their different positions on various yard tracks and relocate them to positions designated as their finish points. The goal is to rearrange the cars in the least "moves" and/or the shortest amount of time.
Manufacturer: Atlas
Atlas Model Railroad Co. is one of the leading manufacturers of model railroad trains and accessories in the United States.
Atlas Model Railroad Co. is one of the leading manufacturers of model railroad trains and accessories in the United States.
Bachmann
A profile of Bachmann Industries, the world's largest manufacturer of model railroad trains and accessories. The Bachmann company markets model railroad trains in HO, N, O, On30, and large scale.
A profile of Bachmann Industries, the world's largest manufacturer of model railroad trains and accessories. The Bachmann company markets model railroad trains in HO, N, O, On30, and large scale.
Kato HO Scale WGH Set
Kato's HO Unitrack WGH Plan Set is an excellent Unitrack starter set for HO enthusiasts.
Kato's HO Unitrack WGH Plan Set is an excellent Unitrack starter set for HO enthusiasts.
spur
In railroading the definition of the term "spur" is a railroad track on which cars are left for loading, unloading, or storage.
In railroading the definition of the term "spur" is a railroad track on which cars are left for loading, unloading, or storage.
MTH Electric Trains
A profile of the MTH Electric Trains company, a manufacturer of O and HO scale model railroad trains.
A profile of the MTH Electric Trains company, a manufacturer of O and HO scale model railroad trains.
Smith Hollow - Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Layout
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.
Z Scale train on the layout of modeler Jim O'Connell
Z Scale train on the layout of modeler Jim O'Connell
Z Scale train on the layout of modeler Jim O'Connell
N Scale Con-Cor Zephyr in Winter Evening Scene
N Scale Con-Cor Zephyr in Winter Evening Scene
N Scale Con-Cor Zephyr in Winter Evening Scene
grade, track
The meaning of the term "grade" in railroading is the slope of a railroad track.
The meaning of the term "grade" in railroading is the slope of a railroad track.
Kato GS-4 Locomotive
Kato's N scale GS-4 locomotive is decorated in Southern Pacific's "daylight" color scheme. It combines with Kato's Morning Daylight car sets to reproduce the famous passenger train which ran from Los Angeles to San Francisco in the 1940s.
Kato's N scale GS-4 locomotive is decorated in Southern Pacific's "daylight" color scheme. It combines with Kato's Morning Daylight car sets to reproduce the famous passenger train which ran from Los Angeles to San Francisco in the 1940s.
Garden Railroad in Las Vegas by Mike Young
Garden railroad featuring Denver and Rio Grande Western passenger train (D&RGW) in Las Vegas by Mike Young
Garden railroad featuring Denver and Rio Grande Western passenger train (D&RGW) in Las Vegas by Mike Young
Upshire by L.A. Breakers
Upshire is an O scale model railway layout of a British village with UK prototype trains built and run by the L.A. Breakers model railroad club.
Upshire is an O scale model railway layout of a British village with UK prototype trains built and run by the L.A. Breakers model railroad club.
Jim O'Connell's Turn Table at Gnawbone Villiage
Z Scale turntable on the layout of modeler Jim O'Connell
Z Scale turntable on the layout of modeler Jim O'Connell
Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Climax Locomotive
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.
Mehano
A profile of the Mehano toy company, a Slovenian manufacturer of toys including model railroad trains. Mehano specializes in European prototype model trains in HO, TT, and N scale. The Mehano Company also offers some North American prototype trains in HO and N scale.
A profile of the Mehano toy company, a Slovenian manufacturer of toys including model railroad trains. Mehano specializes in European prototype model trains in HO, TT, and N scale. The Mehano Company also offers some North American prototype trains in HO and N scale.
Model Train Addiction
A list of ways to identify Model Train Addiction
A list of ways to identify Model Train Addiction
E5 (EMD)
Definition of E5: The E5 locomotive was the seventh in EMD's E Unit series of enclosed body locomotives. It is defined as a slant nose style covered wagon type passenger diesel electric engine. Manufacture of the first E6 locomotives were completed before the first E5. The E5 differed from the other slant nose E units in that it was clad in stainless steel for use with the famous Zephyr passenger trains of the Burlington Route.
Definition of E5: The E5 locomotive was the seventh in EMD's E Unit series of enclosed body locomotives. It is defined as a slant nose style covered wagon type passenger diesel electric engine. Manufacture of the first E6 locomotives were completed before the first E5. The E5 differed from the other slant nose E units in that it was clad in stainless steel for use with the famous Zephyr passenger trains of the Burlington Route.
Track Components
Model railroad track components, their names and uses.
Model railroad track components, their names and uses.
Atlas
A profile of the Atlas Model Railroad Co., one of the leading manufacturers of model railroad trains and accessories in the United States. The company produces model railroad trains in O, HO, and N scale.
A profile of the Atlas Model Railroad Co., one of the leading manufacturers of model railroad trains and accessories in the United States. The company produces model railroad trains in O, HO, and N scale.
E8 (EMD)
The E8 locomotive was the fourth in EMD's E Unit series of enclosed body covered wagon style passenger diesel engine electric locomotives. It is a bulldog nose unit.
The E8 locomotive was the fourth in EMD's E Unit series of enclosed body covered wagon style passenger diesel engine electric locomotives. It is a bulldog nose unit.
Erie-Built (FM)
The Fairbanks-Morse introduced enclosed carbody disel locomotives, produced to compete with the EMD E and ALCO PA units, were dubbed the Erie-builts because they were assembled at the General Electric plant in Erie, PA. This was because Fairbanks-Morse lacked the necessary space at their on facilities.
The Fairbanks-Morse introduced enclosed carbody disel locomotives, produced to compete with the EMD E and ALCO PA units, were dubbed the Erie-builts because they were assembled at the General Electric plant in Erie, PA. This was because Fairbanks-Morse lacked the necessary space at their on facilities.
yard engine
A yard engine is defined as a railroad locomotive, or engine, dedicated to service within a railroad yard. Most such engines are switch engines or "switchers".
A yard engine is defined as a railroad locomotive, or engine, dedicated to service within a railroad yard. Most such engines are switch engines or "switchers".
truck
The meaning of the term "truck" in railroading is a railroad car wheel assembly usually having two or more axels. Railroad cars normally have two trucks, one at each end. Trucks rotate freely beneath locomotives and railroad cars in order to allow them to navigate turns.
The meaning of the term "truck" in railroading is a railroad car wheel assembly usually having two or more axels. Railroad cars normally have two trucks, one at each end. Trucks rotate freely beneath locomotives and railroad cars in order to allow them to navigate turns.
F Unit (EMD)
Definition of F Unit: An F Unit is the term for a diesel locomotive series of models built by EMD in the 1940’s and 50’s.
Definition of F Unit: An F Unit is the term for a diesel locomotive series of models built by EMD in the 1940’s and 50’s.
Model Railroad Trains - FullReviews
An index of FullReviews for the Model Railroad Trains guide site.
An index of FullReviews for the Model Railroad Trains guide site.
Kato USA, Inc.
A profile of Kato USA, Inc. the American subsidiary of the Japanese model railroading company, Kato Co., Ltd.
A profile of Kato USA, Inc. the American subsidiary of the Japanese model railroading company, Kato Co., Ltd.
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.
Texas State Fair Photo by Dr. Vincent Iannelli
The Big Tex Garden Railway by Paul Busse at the 2008 State Fair of Texas. Photo by Dr. Vincent Iannelli, MD.
The Big Tex Garden Railway by Paul Busse at the 2008 State Fair of Texas. Photo by Dr. Vincent Iannelli, MD.
Choosing A Railroad to Model
For the model railroading beginner, choosing a railroad early can save you money.
For the model railroading beginner, choosing a railroad early can save you money.
Charlie Allen's HOn3 Colorado Lines 1937
A photo of Charlie Allen's HOn3 Colorado Lines 1937 taken by Randall Roberts at the National Model Train Show in Anaheim, CA during July 2008.
A photo of Charlie Allen's HOn3 Colorado Lines 1937 taken by Randall Roberts at the National Model Train Show in Anaheim, CA during July 2008.
Russell Straw's N Scale Daylight Train
Russell Straw's N Scale Daylight Train
Russell Straw's N Scale Daylight Train
Kato Morning Daylight
Kato's Morning Daylight passenger cars, with their GS-4 locomotives, give modelers a replica of the famous Southern Pacific Morning Daylight trains of the 1940s.
Kato's Morning Daylight passenger cars, with their GS-4 locomotives, give modelers a replica of the famous Southern Pacific Morning Daylight trains of the 1940s.
Jim O'Connell - Two Steamers Z Scale
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.
Randall Roberts' East Valley Lines Photo
Diesel on trestle of East Valley Lines layout.
Diesel on trestle of East Valley Lines layout.
Joern Pachl's American TT Scale Layout
An image of Joern Pachl's American TT Scale Layout
An image of Joern Pachl's American TT Scale Layout
Runing 3-Rail Model Trains
A tutorial on how to operate a three-rail model railroad train.
A tutorial on how to operate a three-rail model railroad train.
Tillig TT Scale Startset
The Tillig Startset from Germany is an inexpensive way to get your child started with electric trains
The Tillig Startset from Germany is an inexpensive way to get your child started with electric trains
AAR Wheel Arrangements
For describing the wheel arrangement of diesel and electric locomotives in North America, the American Association of Railroads has established a notation system. Commonly referred to as AAR wheel arrangement, it is quite different from the Whyte notation used for describing the wheel arrangements of steam locomotives.
For describing the wheel arrangement of diesel and electric locomotives in North America, the American Association of Railroads has established a notation system. Commonly referred to as AAR wheel arrangement, it is quite different from the Whyte notation used for describing the wheel arrangements of steam locomotives.
Group 160 N-Track Club #1
A gallery of layout and module photos from the 2008 National Train Show, The Anaheim Special. Images include Upshire by L.A. Buffers, Colorado Lines 1937 by Charlie Allen, Windmills by Glenn Karcher, Alameda Street Industry in the 1960s by Brad Myers, modulres by the Group 160 N-Trak club, Feather Canyon River by Bruce Goehman, and an unusual five sided module by Jim O'Connell.
A gallery of layout and module photos from the 2008 National Train Show, The Anaheim Special. Images include Upshire by L.A. Buffers, Colorado Lines 1937 by Charlie Allen, Windmills by Glenn Karcher, Alameda Street Industry in the 1960s by Brad Myers, modulres by the Group 160 N-Trak club, Feather Canyon River by Bruce Goehman, and an unusual five sided module by Jim O'Connell.
NMRA
The National Model Railroad Association sets standards for the model railroading industry in the United States.
The National Model Railroad Association sets standards for the model railroading industry in the United States.
Brad Myers' N-Trak Alameda St. Industry #2
A gallery of layout and module photos from the 2008 National Train Show, The Anaheim Special. Images include Upshire by L.A. Buffers, Colorado Lines 1937 by Charlie Allen, Windmills by Glenn Karcher, Alameda Street Industry in the 1960s by Brad Myers, modulres by the Group 160 N-Trak club, Feather Canyon River by Bruce Goehman, and an unusual five sided module by Jim O'Connell.
A gallery of layout and module photos from the 2008 National Train Show, The Anaheim Special. Images include Upshire by L.A. Buffers, Colorado Lines 1937 by Charlie Allen, Windmills by Glenn Karcher, Alameda Street Industry in the 1960s by Brad Myers, modulres by the Group 160 N-Trak club, Feather Canyon River by Bruce Goehman, and an unusual five sided module by Jim O'Connell.
Dr. Joern Pachl's American TT Scale
Dr. Joern Pachl's American TT Scale Layout
Dr. Joern Pachl's American TT Scale Layout
Kato's PRR Broadway Limited and E8 Locomotive
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.
Philippe Coquet's S Scale Layout
Philippe Coquet's S scale American prototype layout.
Philippe Coquet's S scale American prototype layout.
Kato GS-4
Kato's N scale GS-4 locomotive is decorated in Southern Pacific's "daylight" color scheme. It combines with Kato's Morning Daylight car sets to reproduce the famous passenger train which ran from Los Angeles to San Francisco in the 1940s.
Kato's N scale GS-4 locomotive is decorated in Southern Pacific's "daylight" color scheme. It combines with Kato's Morning Daylight car sets to reproduce the famous passenger train which ran from Los Angeles to San Francisco in the 1940s.
Children's Trains
Things to know about toy trains for children.
Things to know about toy trains for children.
Bowser Manufacturing
A profile of Bowser Manufacturing, an American maker of HO and O scale model railroad trains, with a few N scale freight car offerings.
A profile of Bowser Manufacturing, an American maker of HO and O scale model railroad trains, with a few N scale freight car offerings.
Branchline Trains
Branchline Trains manufactures HO scale rolling stock, structure kits in various scales, and other model railroading accessories.
Branchline Trains manufactures HO scale rolling stock, structure kits in various scales, and other model railroading accessories.
WGH
The acronym WGH stands for "World's Greatest Hobby". It is a slogan of the Model Railroad Industry Association.
The acronym WGH stands for "World's Greatest Hobby". It is a slogan of the Model Railroad Industry Association.
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.
E7 (EMD)
The E7 locomotive was the fourth in EMD's E Unit series of enclosed body covered wagon style passenger diesel engine electric locomotives. It is a bulldog nose unit.
The E7 locomotive was the fourth in EMD's E Unit series of enclosed body covered wagon style passenger diesel engine electric locomotives. It is a bulldog nose unit.
consist
A consist is defined as a set of locomotives coupled together to pull a long train.
A consist is defined as a set of locomotives coupled together to pull a long train.
draft gear
Definition of draft gear: the device used to connect a railroad locomotive or car's coupler to its frame, sometimes called a "coupler mounting box".
Definition of draft gear: the device used to connect a railroad locomotive or car's coupler to its frame, sometimes called a "coupler mounting box".
observation car
An observation car is defined as a passenger car designed to be the last car in a passenger train.
An observation car is defined as a passenger car designed to be the last car in a passenger train.
road number
The meaning of the term "road number" is: a serial number used by a railroad to uniquely identify its locomotives and cars.
The meaning of the term "road number" is: a serial number used by a railroad to uniquely identify its locomotives and cars.
About - Model Railroad Trains Buyer's Guide
Find Guide reviews, top picks, and advice you can use before you buy.
Find Guide reviews, top picks, and advice you can use before you buy.
DCC Decoder Connections
A quick reference to the color code for hard-wired DCC decoder installations.
A quick reference to the color code for hard-wired DCC decoder installations.
Model Power
A profile of the Model Power company, a manufacturer model railroad trains and accessories
A profile of the Model Power company, a manufacturer model railroad trains and accessories
American Flyer
American Flyer is an historic brand name in model railroading.
American Flyer is an historic brand name in model railroading.
Manufacturer: Athearn
Athearn Trains offers a selection of HO and N scale model railroading products.
Athearn Trains offers a selection of HO and N scale model railroading products.
Dave Vollmer's Pennsylvania RR
Photo of a Pennsylvania steamer running on an excellent door-size model train layout.
Photo of a Pennsylvania steamer running on an excellent door-size model train layout.
Covered Wagons... Diesel Style
The definition of Covered Wagon Locomotive is a diesel electric engines with an enclosed carbody design. It is so defined as to differentiate from the hood type diesel electric locomotives which became more popular in later decades. The term covered wagon is most frequently applied to EMD E and F unit locomotives, but may also be applied to ALCO PA as well as Baldwin Centipede, BabyFAce, and Sharknose engines.
The definition of Covered Wagon Locomotive is a diesel electric engines with an enclosed carbody design. It is so defined as to differentiate from the hood type diesel electric locomotives which became more popular in later decades. The term covered wagon is most frequently applied to EMD E and F unit locomotives, but may also be applied to ALCO PA as well as Baldwin Centipede, BabyFAce, and Sharknose engines.
Shop Window Dinosaur
A dinosaur in the window of The Original Whistle Stop, in Pasadena, CA, devours a Union Pacific locomotive.
A dinosaur in the window of The Original Whistle Stop, in Pasadena, CA, devours a Union Pacific locomotive.
Philippe Coquet's S Scale Big Horn Layout
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.
From Philippe Coquet's S Scale Layout
Diesel parked by Pizza Parlor from Philippe Coquet's S Scale Layout
Diesel parked by Pizza Parlor from Philippe Coquet's S Scale Layout
Kato Morning Daylight on East Valley Lines Layout.
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.
Jim O'Connell Z Scale Canyon Photo
Steam locomotive pulling a train through the canyon on Jim O'Connell's Z scale layout.
Steam locomotive pulling a train through the canyon on Jim O'Connell's Z scale layout.
Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Hawk View
Overhead photo of Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Layout
Overhead photo of Jim O'Connell's Z Scale Layout
MOROP
The European Union of Model Railroad and Railroad Friends (MOROP) sets standards for the model railroading industry in Europw. The federation is based in in Berne, Switzerland.
The European Union of Model Railroad and Railroad Friends (MOROP) sets standards for the model railroading industry in Europw. The federation is based in in Berne, Switzerland.
Blackening Center Rails
A method for blackening O gauge center rails using Neolube
A method for blackening O gauge center rails using Neolube
diesel locomotive
Definition of diesel locomotive: locomotive with a diesel engine.
Definition of diesel locomotive: locomotive with a diesel engine.
Organization: NMRA
The National Model Railroad Association sets standards for the model railroading industry
The National Model Railroad Association sets standards for the model railroading industry