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!
240V 10amp Extension Cord Wire on Model Railways?
Phillip moderls OO gauge and asks:
What’ the correct wire thickness?
“I have plenty of 240V 10amp extension cords in my shed. I was therefore wondering if the wire could be used for bus wires on a OO/HO DC model railway? Or, would the wire be too thick for the power going from the controller to the track?”
1/72 Models on HO Train Track
Bob is hoping someone can help:
“I’m considering getting one of those really big 1/72 German WWII military railway gun models for the HO layout and putting it on some kind of track.
I’m thinking for a static display I could probably get by with just a few feet of track. I believe I could make the track to suit the model’s trucks using code 100 rail on plastic HO tie strips. Of course I would prefer to be able to pull the models like any other piece of rolling stock.
The only way I can see to set up the models to be pulled by a loco would be to use HO track and either modify the model’s trucks or replace them. I doubt if the model’s wheels and axles would be suitable for actually moving the model. The prospect of scratch building four or eight 5-axle or 6-axle trucks is a bit daunting.
Has anyone set up one or more of those big guns on a layout, or tried to do it? Thanks for sharing your experience.”
Clever Idea – Making Corrugated Tin and Coal sacks
John T has kindly shared these ideas:
Here is a tip for who is interested tin and coal sacks.
I brought ready made corrugated plastic sheets then I made my own Iused the brought sheet an foil tray from a meat pie cut it to shape then placed the foil on top. I run a finger nail down the creases to make it very realistic.
Coal sacks
I brought three boxes of tips you uses for roll ups from a pound shop pressed them a little to the desired shape. I removed some filling from the top end and placed model coal in and painted the sacks.
Hope this is of interest to you.
Hopefully John can upload a photo in the comments section of his post.
Locomotives and Tracks
“Hi everyone, I am Karthik from India, I’m new to this hobby of rail road models, my question is that, there are a large number of manufacturers in model railroads. Is it possible that an N Scale KATO or MICRO TRAINS made locomotives and rolling stock can run on ATLAS or BACHMANN made N scale tracks or a Flexitrack?”
Running Multiple Trains
Joel wants to learn more about the hobby and asks this question of more experienced model railroaders:
“Watching some vids I think I see multi trains on the sam mie line, but one is stopped while another is in motion. Is this possible or should I be using better ventilation as I paint? Thanks.”
It doesn’t matter if you are an experienced railroader or an absolute beginner, don’t be embarrassed to post a question no matter how simple or complex it might be. The best way to learn and progress in the hobby is to ask plenty of questions. Most model railroaders are more than happy to share their experience and particuarly encourage newcomers to the hobby. We all began with abdolutely no knowledge, so send in your questions if you need help with anything regardless of how simple or unusual your question might be. There are probably plenty of others reading this blog who will want to know the answers too.
Loss of Power on Points
Barry models in N scale and has this question for readers:
“Hi, I hope some one can help. Up till yesterday my track was running without any problems. After giving the track its weekly clean l found that the train run perfectly well until coming to one set of points it then stops dead. The trains run perfectly well ether side of the points. HELP PLEASE.”
Wheel Gauge Adjustment
Benj sent in this question:
“I want to alter the wheel gauge on my O-Scale 2-track truck. The wheels are actually too close together. Do any of your blog people know what to do?”
Add your comments by using the COMMENTS link under this posting.
Ideas For Scenery and Structures
Morgan would like some ideas for his HO shelf layout from anyone who has any suggestions:
“My shelf layout is 12″/yes, one foot deep. To be 24′ long, currently finished only one 8′ board/left end. On that board I have barely enough track, and very little room for buildings, etc. Will probably need false fronts on the wall to “simulate” business for the railroad. 3″ at the most in depth. But can be 3′ wide, meaning more than one building. With this narrow a layout, I do not anticipate backdrop. Maybe just drawing paper painted pale blue on the wall. This is not to be a showplace. Mostly just for me. So I’m looking for ideas. Basic area is West TX, so it’s pretty barren. I have tons of cars, so the industries can be most anything. ?? An ice platform for refrigerator cars. ?? LOL But oil and stock pens are good. Ideas and suggestions, please.”
Switch Machine For Shinohara Double Crossover
Lou is planning a double crossover and posts this question:
“I am planning to install an HO Shinohara double crossover on my system. The tracks sit on 1/2″ plywood base board and cork road bed. Although all my rolling stock runs on DCC all the switches run on DC.
My question is what make and model switch machine will work best mounted under the base board? Do I need 4 switch machines or can I get away with less if some how ganging them up to operate the turnouts?”
Shipley Model Railway Society Trains in Operation
Thanks to Jason for sending in these photos of trains on the Shipley Model Railway Society layout in the UK. The Society was founded in 1978 and has around 40 members who come from towns across Yorkshire including: Ilkley, Keighley, Otley, Guiseley, Harrogate, Horsforth, Bradford and Brighouse.
Layouts in the clubrooms are 4mm and 7mm (EM and OO gauges). The Society operates trains from Great Britain in the 1920’s through to the present day. It has an assortment of European, Canadian, and American rolling stock.
Plywood or Foam Insulation Board?
New member to the Online Model Train Club Chris Peterson has this question for readers:
“Quick question – is foam insulating board better than using ply-wood? I will be building height on top using layers of extruded foam so I can carve into it. Is this the right way? I like that it’s lightweight. Is there any fire danger?”
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