Everything on model trains, model railroads, model railways, locomotives, model train layouts, scenery, wiring, DCC and more. Enjoy the world's best hobby... model railroading!
The Optimal Model Train Consist
Trevor asks:
“I think I’ve got it right putting my heavy or larger cars at the front of the train and positioning the other cars behind with the lightest cars closest to the caboose? I have both diesels at the front facing the same direction nose to tail, or should I runs my diesels tail to tail? What’s right or is it just a preference thing?”
You can submit your own question for publication – see the link below.
Coming Soon! An exciting new series of derelict scale model background buildings
In a few days, two new series of scale model background buildings will be available for download. The series shown here features several abandoned industrial buildings, and the other series includes some factories and workshops. The plans can be downloaded and built to OO, HO, or N scale and are some of the most realistic-looking models ever released.
Running Model Trains After Hurricane Ida Flood
Gary was impacted by Hurricane Ida and asks:
“We had IDA dump 10” in our basement. None of my O scale train equipment was damaged. My question is, the track. I had kept a 50-55 degree humidity. It has come down to good numbers. I’m worried about the track surface. What should I do and/or use.”
Using NCE Switch-Kat and Kato 4ch Turnout Controller
Ivan asks:
“My HO track and turnouts are Bachmann. Can I use the Switch Kat and Kato 4ch controller? The Bachmann turnout has 3 wires, whereas Kato turnouts have two? How would you wire that so that it would work?”
Kadee 50-footer Boxcar Coupler
Garry posted:
“One of my Kadee 50 footers has a bent coupler I need to fix but I’m not sure how to remove the coupler cover without damaging it. I guess they are not designed to be fixed?”
Send in your question to be published con the blog. Use the ASK A QUESTION link.
Dirty Stuff On Rails
Kev writes:
“I’ve only been running my trains for a short time and already there is black stuff building up on the rails. If I don’t clean it away my engine loses some power. I don’t think it’s grease, oil, or the paint I used on the ties and rails which I shined with bright boy. What is it and the cause, and how can I prevent it from coming back? Do others have this problem?”
Post your comments below, or have your own question published by using the ASK A QUESTION link.
Cork Track Base
Jeff asks readers:
“I have an old HO scale setup on a 4’x6’ sheet of plywood. The old track is on a raised cork bed. The train barely moves on the track. After applying several cleaning methods, unsuccessfully, I’m told I need some new track. I would like to purchase new updated tracking but am unfamiliar with it. Most importantly will it fit on my previously installed cork bed. Any help to get me started would be greatly appreciated.”
Add your comments to assist Jeff below.
Track Voltage Loss
Neil models HO and asks:
“My loco drops 2 volts and slows the further away it gets from my power terminal track. Do I need 2 power terminal tracks positioned at opposite ends of my 9 foot track? Can someone clarify please?”
Get your question published on the blog too. See the link below.
NEW! Plans For 11 Scale Model 3D Shops Now Available To Download… Photo-Realistic!
CLICK THE VIDEO BELOW TO WATCH THE 2 Minute DEMO.
PDF plans for series #1 and series #2 are now available for download at https://www.modelbuildings.org/oo-n-ho-scale-3d-shopping-center-for-railroads
Code 100 Track Question
Beginner to the hobby Orjan asks:
“Sorry for my ignorance but in simple terms what does code 100 mean? If I go with code 100 would I always need to use the same track code?”
You can send in your own question for publication by using the ASK A QUESTION link below.
Gear Slipping on HO Scale Norfolk and Western Class J
David posted this:
“My sons love model trains but it is something I never messed with as a child. I am fully indulging their hobby looking for things on Craigslist and eBay. I just gave my son an HO Norfolk and Western 4-8-4 train I bought used off of eBay for his birthday. It ran around the track once perfectly, but then it started acting like the motor was not catching the gears properly. It runs but acts like a transmission slipping. I have repaired Thomas track master trains and a small HO Freedom Train but this train is larger and more complicated at least to me.
1) Is there a resource any of you would recommend for adjusting or replacing gears on such a model?
2)We live in Western North Carolina. Are there places I could take it for repair if it is beyond my scope and abilities? Thanks”
Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Whistler
Bill writes:
“Dear Railroaders, I hope all are safe and well. I have a A.C. Gilbert Co., Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Whistler, and believe it to be a Model 577. Running 3-rail O gauge trains. I have no wiring instructions or manual for the Whistler. Does anyone know where to access installation instructions, a parts list and/or wiring diagram? It would be greatly appreciated. Best regards.”
Submit your suggestions here.
Which EZ Track To Use
Darren who models HO asks:
“I’m using EZ track and am planning to add a two-stall engine shed to my layout. Which track should I use to have two lines run into the shed before combining just after exiting the shed? Will there be any likely issues?”
Post your comments below, or use the ASK A QUESTION link to have your own question published.
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