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LED Lights For Steam Engines

Bernie asks:

“Interested to know what color LED lights is best used in steam locomotives because I’m about to change to LEDs. I’m HO scale.”

Contribute your comments below.

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See the Range of Retail Stores You Can Build in the Background or Foreground of Your OO Scale, HO, or N Scale Layout

Plans for the background shops featured in the above video can be downloaded here:

https://www.modelbuildings.org/naturally-weathered-shops-pack-deal

Plans for more background and foreground shops can be downloaded here:

https://www.modelbuildings.org/town-city-shops

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DCC Conversion

David writes:

“I plan to convert my small (and modest) N scale layout from DC to DCC. I’ve read scads of articles on the most popular DCC systems available. Can someone recommend the most-preferred or most-used system for a 4 by 8 N scale layout?”

Please add your suggestions below.

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DCC Decoders

David asks:

“I have four N scale Kato locomotives that are NOT DCC-Ready. What brand of decoder is most-used or most-recommended? Does a single decoder control the engine’s movement, light(s), and sound?”

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Resister Size For Various Voltages

Ron models HO scale and asks:

“What size resisters do I need for various light voltage? I have purchased a few 1000 ohm resisters for my lights. I am building a layout that’s is a squared circle 12’x4’ by 4’x4′ and the other side is the same. I have well over 500 lights. Thanks in advance for any advice.”

Add your comments below to assist Ron.

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Passenger Diesel Engine – DCC

Richard writes:

“I am looking to purchase an engine that would be equal to Athearn. Had a Broadway Limited engine, but there were many problems and it could not pull what my Athearn did. It should be F-3 or F-7. So far I have not been able locate anything in the USA. Does someone know where I should go to locate one?”

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Kemtron Brass Mogul Locomotive

Michael writes:

“I have just bought a Kemtron brass mogul loco O scale which I think is a model of Wabash number 573 almost fully built, (in a shoe box). Some parts are missing, like the air pump, coal bunker, etc. etc. Can anybody please tell me where I can get spare parts ? Thank you.”

Add your comments or suggestions below.

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Athearn Genesis F3, F7, and F9 Locomotives

Martin asks:

“Can someone explain the difference between the Athearn Genesis locomotive F3 / F7 / F9 models which all look similar?”

You can add your comments below.

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How The Car Types and Brands Compare

Steve is starting off with HO and writes:

“”How do you rate the car types and brands in terms of detailing and reliability? Which brands or models stand out, and which brands should I avoid? US 1960s and 1970s era interests me. I will be avoiding plastic wheels and knuckle couplers based on what I’ve read.”

Readers are welcome to contribute thoughts below.

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How Run Down and Derelict Buildings Can Bring Character and Realism To A Backdrop Scene

See the full range of background buildings below.

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Soldering Tools and Components

Warwick asks:

“I am new to soldering and would like to know what to buy. I have space enough for a 8 x 4 layout in HO and expect I will need something suitable for multi-purpose use. What do you recommend?”

You can comment below.

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Calculating Track Rise Based on Length

Michael asks:

“When creating slopes up or down how many inches do you rise or drop in a 12″ or 1′ run increments?”

This free calculator should be helpful to Michael https://www.modelbuildings.org/track-grade-calculator

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Discoloration of Atlas Switch Center Rail

Kerry writes:

“On my O gauge layout I noticed the center rail of the Atlas switch is discolored. The track on either side is ok. Any idea what causes this? I have six switches and they all exhibit this?”

Add and view comments below.

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Model A Fire Scene

Including an emergency scene on a layout is always popular with visitors because it can add action, excitement and interest to a scene. It also provides the opportunity to include special effects, flashing lights, siren sounds, and lots of vehicles, TV crews, and spectators. This scene was snapped at a Brisbane Train Show.

Plans for burnt out buildings, fire/police/ambulance stations can be found at:

https://www.modelbuildings.org/fire-department-ambulance-police-station-models

https://www.modelbuildings.org/city-series

https://www.modelbuildings.org/derelict-railroad-models

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Front Tender Wheels Derail

Leslie asks:

“I have an Athearn 4-8-4 DCC and the left front of the 4 tender wheels keep derailing. They are spring and swivel. Oiling made no difference. Thoughts?”

You can see and add comments below.

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Logging Flatcars

Rowan models N scale and asks:

“I have been looking online for 30ft to 40ft flatcars… not singles, but can’t decide what best for using on my logging layout. I will want to transport freshly felled logs to the sawmill, and cut lumber from the sawmill to a furniture factory in town. Ideas please?”

Please add your thoughts below.

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Impressive Silos To Build

You can download these plans at https://www.modelbuildings.org/industrial-silos-pack-deal/

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DCC Narrow Gauge Trains

John writes:

“Please help me. I have just started with DCC narrow gauge. What type of controller should I get? I have just turned 66, and computers are not my strong point but I can get by. What is the best way to start? I have had OO gauge in the past. The reason I have to go smaller s a lack of space. I live in Halesowen. Is there a club near me ? Can any one help me? Regards”

Contribute your thoughts below.

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