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!
VGN Electric EL-2B Locomotive
Here is a question from Roba who would like to know the value of a locomotive:
“I have an HO VGN RR EL-2B electric locomotive that is in mint condition still in the box. I used to live beside the VGN RR and remember the locomotive very well. It used to run from Elmore WV to Roanoke VA. until 1959 when it was discontinued after the VGN merged with the Norfolk & Southern RR. Anyone know what the value of this loco Is? I could be wrong on the date. They merged in 1959 but the Loco may have run a little while longer. Thanks in advance”
This blog doesn’t do buy/sell/or swap so contact details are not exchanged.
Converting a Triang R159A/R250A Victorian Railways (Australia) B Class Loco to DCC
Ian who model in HO sent in this question:
“I have a Victorian Railways (Australia) B Class double ended Bulldog Cabins – GM/EMD F3A – that I want to convert to DCC. The bogies are all metal bogies, so consequently when the loco is placed on the tracks it automatically shorts. I’m led to believe that it is possible to DCC this locomotive. Can any of your readers confirm this for me please? Also what is the best way to achieve the end result? Thanks in advance.
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Buster Keaton Rides A Train – 1923 – VERY FUNNY!
Comedian Buster Keaton was a pioneer of silent comedies in the 1920’s.
Keaton loved trains and had Stephenson’s Rocket recreated along with just on a mile of rickety track just for this film. Will the train stay on the track? It is kinda crazy, but an historic masterpiece.
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Is Block Wiring a Good Idea when Running DCC?
Ben has OO and asks readers:
“I heard block wiring is not necessary for DCC, whereas with DC it was essential. Although that makes sense, surely on DCC it would still be sensible to isolate electrical problems by isolating one block at a time?
I know people use multiple drops with DCC as a way of evenly distributing power and increasing reliability. So maybe I’m barking up the wrong tree? Feedback appreciated.”
If you have a question you would like published – simply click the ASK A QUESTION link to submit your question for review by the Blog Moderator.
To assist Ben with his question – use the COMMENTS link.
What’s the effect of power routing on decoders?
Online train club member Colin models N scale and asks:
“I am using NCE DCC Power Pro and my question relates to the problems I am having with installing Switch-Cats on my layout. I am wondering if the power routing affects the accessory decoders? I am unable to get the turnouts to work.”
Hard To Find Loco…If It Exists?
This website doesn’t do Buy/Sell/Swap, however Tom more interested in information on a specific HO loco that he thinks he has seen as some time:
“I am looking for a particular model engine that may or may not have been made by someone. The original engine is a Lima 51-ton Consolidation-type 2-8-0 purchased in 1905 by the Cranberry Lake Railroad [a/k/a Rich Lumber Co.] in Wanakena, NY . The build number is 1015.
I realize that it is a longshot to have that exact locomotive modeled by someone. If there is, SUPER! If not, would you know of something close that I could modify?”
1960’s – 1970’s Diesel Engine. Which Model and Manufacturer
Club member Daniel has this question for readers:
“I would like some suggestions to help me select my next locomotive to run on my 1960’s – 1970’s DCC HO layout. Any suggestions on the best manufacturer or model? I understand this is a very wide ranging question, so I’ve thought a bit about what I really want:
- Price – maybe $150 to $250USD range.
- Reliable performance needs to be a priority as I would would rather have fewer, better engines that can do the job and won’t cause me headaches.
- Style of diesel is not so important. It just needs to fit the era of my US railroad.
Any ideas please?”
Planning a Super Elevation
Club member Lawrence has this question for readers:
“How much should I super-elevate my curves? My plan is to use 1/32 inch thick basswood for my super-elevation at the outer end of the ties. I calculate that at around 3 scale inches in HO scale. Is that sufficient to make it worthwhile, or is it too much? I’m just not sure.”
Locomotive Cleaning, Lubricating and Maintenance
Club member Cameron asks this question:
“I have a number of steam and diesel HO scale locomotives of varying quality from different manufacturers. I’d really appreciate some hints on cleaning, lubricating and correct maintenance procedures of engines before I stuff things up. Thanks.”
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Scratch Building A Critter… and What is a Critter?
The term “Critter” is one of those not so common model railroading words that confuses many in the hobby.
It is hard to put an exact definition on what a “Critter” is, but generally it could be any self propelled locomotive that runs as a support engine to move other cars around as opposed to being in regular mainline operation. Critters are often reasonably small (3 tons or less) with a small cab, or in some cases no cab at all. Most have a x-4-x wheel arrangement but some in the hobby would argue there are no hard or fast rules on what defines a locomotive as being a “Critter” or not. Some would say a double trucked locomotive of any construction could fit the definition whereas others might disagree. Could a small lightweight piece of MOW equipment that is not considered to be a “locomotive”, but is still capable of pulling cars on a mainline, be a Critter? Would a “Shay” fall under the definition, or would only a small Shay fit the definition? When is a critter, a critter, or not a critter?
Over the years I have heard people define a variety of locomotives as being “Critters” when others might disagree, so it is one of those railroading terms that perhaps we could do without? You might disagree. Anyway, it would be interesting to here what others think, and how you might best define a “Critter.”
That brings me to a question posted by William who asks others:
“Howdy, this is William and I have been busy with trains again. I have this project…an On30 mechanized bugger. Here is a photo of it that I found on-line. The driver sprocket is covered by a plated cover. I have seen this part and want to purchase one and can’t remember where I saw it. Please help with identification: manufacturer, item#…thanks in advance!”
If you would like to answer the question from William, or give your thoughts on what defines a loco as a “Critter”, then used the COMMENTS link to have your say, or to see what others have to say.
Distance Between Rail Height and Lighting Above
Wayne posted this question and is hoping for some help from others in the hobby:
“I am building an HO shelf layout. What is the recommended distance from the top of the rail to the valance above where the lighting source will be located? The shelf will be approx. 28″ wide. I am thinking of bringing the valance out 14″ from the wall? Thanks.”
Tamper Track Machine Question
Sam posted this question for readers:
“I recently purchased an n gauge tamping machine Hobbytrain. Does anybody know how to fit a DCC chip into it?”
If you have a question you would like considered for publication, please use the ASK A QUESTION link below any posting.
Mixing India Ink With Isopropyl Alcohol For Weathering
Koot posted this question:
“The India ink I use for a wash with 
Isopropyl alcohol separates and black sediment settles at the bottom of the container. On the label it says that the ink can be diluted with distilled water. Why the separation?”
Add your COMMENTS below or post your own question using the ASK A QUESTION link.
You Can Make the LONGEST Background Building in the World with these Plans for just a few $$!
Download the plans just once and you can print out several copies to make a VERY LONG scale model backdrop building in OO gauge, HO, or N scale. Just extend the backdrop building as far as you want. You can even join the red brick building to the gray brick building (both are the same size) to are variation. Easy to follow construction diagrams included.
http://www.modelbuildings.org/Pack-K-Industries-Backdrop-Structures.html
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