Tips & Resources
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!
Locomotive Pull Power
Rich is having problems with getting his locomotive moving and wants to hear from others who might know what he can do to improve his locomotive pull power:
“I have just recently put together some track and the old “O” model train. I know very little about special details concerning electrical requirements for this system. I have a power supply, ac transformer to output of 6 to 18v ac, but at full rotation of the supply knob, the engine can barely move the set of 8 cars on the flat surface. Can someone tell me do I need a heavier duty transformer, or what?”
Add your feedback on Rich’s locomotive pull power posting by clicking the green comments link below.
Numbers on Locos And Code 100 Term?
Here are two reader questions that are answered in the ebook. If you would like to have a go at answering them without looking up the answers, click on the green comments link below:
“I would like to know what is the difference in code100 and code 83 track”
“I would like to know how locomotives get there numbers? I my case it would be steam.”
Two Quick Model Train Tips
Here are two quick model train tips from my ebook:
1. Running your trains at least once a day helps keep the rails from getting dirty in the first place, so that’s a fun way to keep rails clean, and feels less like work.
2. Many model train passenger cars that are being retailed don’t have interiors. As a result when you look inside them they look like a toy train. One simple solution is to buy some commercial window tinting film from a hobby, hardware, or car accessory store. A small strip of the tinting film can be attached to the inside of the clear plastic that makes up the windows of most passenger cars. The tinting film can look like polarized glass which is very difficult to look through.
How To Get The Most From Your RR Layout
Here are 7 quick tips to help you get the best from your layout:
- Aim to have a heavy locomotive with adequate power available.
- If you want to run really long trains then it is best to have clean track that is level or with only gentle curves.
- Keep your trains well maintained.
- The wheels on the locomotive should be kept clean, traction tires clean, bearings lubricated (including side rod linkage on steam).
- Have the locomotive motor checked regularly.
- Rolling stock should have clean wheels and lubricated bearings.
- Couplers should move freely to maintain alignment.
For more model train tips go to http://www.model-train-help.com
Model Train Videos Prove Popular
Thank you for the excellent feedback on my series of model train videos – I’m glad people are enjoying them.
If you haven’t already had a look at the free sample video you can access it here http://www.model-train-help.com/sample-video.html
Here is some info on a couple of videos in the 42 model train video series:
Video #17. Electrics Explained
In this video clip, James explains the control panel he built to control various points on his layout including the signals. He shows you how he has motorized all the turnouts on the main tracks and why he’s left all the other turnouts, such as the interchange, as manual throw turnouts. James has used different methods to attach the turnouts depending on their location on the layout and shows how he has mounted the DCC system under his baseboard.
After a quick tour James explains how to measure the track voltage and how to reduce the voltage to prevent decoders from overheating or failing. He then shows you step-by-step how to build a ‘diode matrix’ set.
Video #23. Making Scenery Foliage
Florist foam is an inexpensive, versatile material to use when making foliage and groundcover for your model railroad layout. Watch how to go about it step-by-step. Then, see a demonstration of applying ‘dried moss’ as foliage. It is so easy when you know how!
The model train video series is available at http://www.model-train-help.com/member-only-videos.html
Range Of Model Railroad Questions To Tackle
Model railroading is a fantastic hobby especially when we all help each other solve problems. Here are reader questions you might like to help out with. To comment on these questions, simply click on the green comments link below this posting.
N-Scale Couplings Cause Problems
Doc is having problems with his model train couplings and asks:
“I am have trouble with my car couplings staying together while running my units. Is there anything anyone may know about this and is there one better coupling than another?”
Multi Level Dream Layout
Douglas asks:
“I am looking for a multilevel layout 8X16 design to run 3 or 4 O trains. Do your readers think this is a feasable dream? Any ideas?”
Track Removal
Marty has an N scale layout and asks this interesting question:
“Can anyone guide me in the removal of old “Glued” down track from styrafoam as im afraid I might ruin it. Any ideas from your readers please.”
How Many Cars Per Engine On HO Layout?
John has a couple of questions for readers:
“I have several locomotives and I want to know how many cars should I run per engine. I have three analog engines and four DCC engines (two are Atlas locos.) and at least 60 cars.
I know quality is an issue and you get what you pay for, but I would say most of my locos are towards the cheap end except for the Atlas Locos. Also, what’s the easiest way to clean your tracks?”
To answer John’s questions or comment on his posting, click on the green comments link below.
Why Do Trains Slows Down And Speed Up?
Jim operates an HO DC layout and asks readers this question:
“I have two tracks runing on a 100 sq. ft. table. The engines slow down when they get about half way around and then they will speed up, what is the problem?”
If you would like to help Jim solve his problem, add your comments to this blog by using the green comments link below.
Beginner Needs Help With Scales
Brian is a beginner in the hobby and, like many others, is confused with scales and where to start. Those who have purchased my Model Train Help ebook will realize that these and answers to other questions are well explained in the ebook.
If you would like to give Brian some tips of your own, simply click on the green comments link below this posting. Here is Brian’s question.
“I am getting ready to retire and have been interested in starting model railroading for many years. I do not know anything about scales and am wondering where to start with this so I can end up with something that can be enjoyed, added to and not have more than one scale involved. Any help from your readers would be appreciated.”
Answer using the ‘comments’ link under these words.
Trucks and Track Joints
Nick operates HO and has two questions for you:
1. Do your readers think I should use steel trucks on all cars?
2. How do they feel about interchanging track. ie, Lifelike, Bachmann etc? Should every joint be soldered together?
To help Nick, click on the green comments link below.
How To Submit A Model Railroad Question
Would you like to know more about DCC operation, signal wiring, scenery building, locomotive power, choosing rolling stock, stuck couplers, weathering techniques, how to make an LDE project – or anything to do with model railroading?
Would you like to learn more about HO scale, Double 0, N scale, Z scale, O, S, HOn3, or G scale?
Perhaps you have a question about model train manufacturers like: Bachmann, Atlas, Hornby, Athearn, Kato, Marklin, Accurail or another brand?
Submit your model railroading question for publication on the Model Train Help Blog site.
Experienced model railroaders are encourage to help others in the hobby by sharing ideas and answers to the submitted questions.
Test Your Model Railroading Knowledge
Here are a couple of questions from model railroaders who would like your help. To offer suggestions simply click on the green comments tag below.
Test Your Knowledge 1
“I recently came across a very nice Bachman 4-8-2 Union Pacific Steam locomotive (#7009). It has two plug in connectors from the tender to the locomotive. It runs well on my std HO track. I do not know anything about DCC equipped trains and wondered if this model has that capability? I have looked on the net but cannot find the 7009. (It may be 5+ years old) Can
your readers help me??”
Test Your Knowledge 2
“Is the somewhere I can find foliage that drapes over a wall and hangs down or can your readers tell me how to make some? I have made the ground cover as you describe in your Model Train Help ebook and it looks great, thanks. “
Model Railroading Knowledge
From time to time model railroaders submit questions for readers of this blog to answer. Below are two questions you might like to have a go at answering:
Model Railroad Question #1
“I am just starting out with o gauge trains. I would like to know how I can hook up barrier strips and jumpers for my 6×11 layout? How many CTC lock-ons would I need. I bought the 3- 8 screw and jumpers and barrier strips. Would your readers have a any information how I can hook the strips & jumpers to my lay out. I have no idea how to hook them up. Maybe a Diagram will be helpful.”
Model Railroad Question #2
“I don’t know very much about this hobby yet but I’m learning. I would like to know what kind of transformer can I use. I have two Lima trains and I am building the platform for it and some one offered me a Hornsby 12 Volt DC transformer with 16 volt AC output. Is this enough to run trains, changes, and lights all together? I will appreciate help from others in the hobby. Thank you.”
If you would like to help these readers, simply click on the green comments tag below and submit your answer or suggestion.
Model Train Video Feedback
My series of 42 model train videos has proved more popular than I expected and the feedback has been encouraging. I’m glad everyone has enjoyed watching them despite the fact that I am not very expert with a camera. I think most people understand I’ve concentrated more on content than a flashy presentation. I appreciate the support and encouragement. Here is a sample of the feedback:
“Not only have I enjoyed watching the videos, I find it so much easier watching scenes of what to do. Well done Robert!” B Peterson, Illinois, USA
“Robert, I just wanted to say thank you. I’ve learned more in a month from your railway videos than I did reading several books. They’ve been well worth the investment.”P Hughes, UK
“It’s good getting sent a new train video (or two) every week. I wait with anticipation and then watch each video over and over again. I’ve gained lots of ideas and I’m going to recommend your video series to lots of people.”Paul H, WA, Australia
More information about the videos: http://www.model-train-help.com/member-only-videos.html
“You said the RR videos were not Hollywood quality – who cares? They’re great entertainment and helpful too!” H Moore, Houston, Texas, USA
“Hey Robert! The videos are real good. Big help. Thanx!”Marcus C, NZ
“I like the fact they’re amateur videos and not some flashy studio production. They’re even better than I imagined…real people who know what they’re talking about. These videos are well worth getting!” S Mitchell, Canada
“I’m really enjoying watching your model railroading videos. Thanks so much. I’ll be recommending them to club members”Arnie H, California, USA
“My wife said I was crazy buying your videos but she’s enjoyed watching them too. She’s happy, because she knows they will keep me out of mischief!”B Alexander, USA
“That guy James in the videos sure knows his stuff. Even I’m impressed!”George S, SA
“I’ve saved each video to my computer so I can watch them whenever I want a break from doing chores around the house. Thanks.”M Kennedy, USA
More information about the videos: http://www.model-train-help.com/member-only-videos.html
“I made my first baseboard after watching the video tutorial. You made it so easy to understand.”K Johnson, UK
“Thank you for making the videos as they are a pleasure to watch each week. I also appreciate the fact that I can see other peoples layouts in other countries on video as I am not well enough to travel. You deserve to be congratulated.”Pierre C, Canada
“I just wanted to say thank-you for the videos you send me each week. They have really come in handy over the last couple of weeks. I’ve been building my layout for almost a year and a half (I wish I had these videos and your book sooner!!). Thanks again, I’m going to recommend your videos to lots of people!”Bill T, Australia
“Your e-book is the best out there, and I would like to recommend it, and your videos I get every week to anyone that has any interest in this hobby.”Wayne S, UK
“…your video lessons are excellent! They are just what I have been searching for, for a long time now – really good!”Marty H, USA
“After receiving access to the weekly video downloads, I can say with confidence that these are the best. I liked James’s idea of a register of locos with DCC settings. He gives some great ideas in the videos.”Kerry W
“I’m up to week 12 in your videos and am enjoying them. I’ve watched the 3 video of the Wanganui train show about four times. They’re wonderful to watch.”Matt G, USA
“I have been involved in model railways for a little over 14 years. I would like to say that, not only have I learned a lot from your videos, but I have enjoyed watching them over and over again. I highly recommend your videos to other railway modelers.”Lance D, UK
Model Train Videos With Australian Trains
Two of the videos in the new model railroad videos series are:
Video #7. Agriculture & Industrial Layouts
There are many clever model railroading scenery ideas in this video. Watch a sugar cane train on its journeys from fields to sugar mill. This layout features: a wheat growing district, a loaded coal train, open-cut mine and port facility. There’s even an outback town with livestock yards portrayed.
Video #8. Soldering The Track
In this model train video tutorial James shows you how to solder and wire track for a reliable connection every time. James talks you through the process step-by-step and reveals a little trick to get a good solder.
Feedback from model railroad fan Roger:
“I just wanted to drop you a line and say how much I have enjoyed your videos. I have already received the first 10 model train videos and they are great. When I received your first E-mail about the series, I was not sure as to whether I wanted to spend the money or not. I must say, just as your Model Train Help book is great, the train videos are great and well worth the money. Your videos have convinced me that I must visit Australia and see this stuff first hand.”
Roger B, Ohio
Model Railroaders Submit Questions
Here are questions from three keen model railroaders. If you would like to suggest an answer or share your model railroading ideas, simply click on the comments tag below to answer the question or add your thoughts.
Question 1:
“Can your blog readers tell me how do I change the address on a Marklin mfx loco?”
Question 2:
“A question for your readers. Can transformers for HO be used to power N gauge layouts, or must they say HO,N,O etc. on them?”
Question 3:
“I am a doctor working in a city at the southern tip of India. We have hardly any model railway enthusiasts here. I have recently updated to DCC. I have only Hornby systems. Can your readers advise me regarding a good shunter diesel.”
If you would like to answer one, or all three, of these questions simply click on the comments tag below.
42 Amateur Model Railroad Videos Released
After a year in the making a series of 42 amateur model railroading videos were finally released today.
These videos do not pretend to be Hollywood productions as they focus more on providing good content rather than flashy presentation.
The 42 model train videos cover a range of model railroading topics and include tours of several private layouts… not normally open to the public.
These videos, available by download, also feature visits to some train shows and include lots of useful ideas and tips to help hobbyists build, or improve their own model railroad. Other video topics cover baseboard construction, electrics, foliage making, DC and DCC operation. The series even includes three videos about building a garden railroad.
These videos range in length but average around nine or ten minutes each. The step-by-step tutorials in the videos provide answers to many common (and not so common) model railroading problems.
Access to these videos is by “membership only” so is restricted to a limited number of keen model railroaders.
To find out more about these model train videos and to read the list of contents and see a sample video click on this model train video link.
Happy railroading!
Model Railroad Terms Create Confusion
Model railroading is a popular hobby in most developed countries but there are a few differences to be aware of. The most noticeable is the type of railroad and rolling stock. Apart from that, there a a few model railroading terms that differ from country to country.
For example the term ‘Model Railroad’ is used widely in the USA, yet in countries like the United Kingdom and New Zealand the term ‘Model Railway’ is more commonly used. There is however a bit of overlap because in the USA and New Zealand the term ‘HO scale’ is used, whereas the UK refers to ‘OO scale’, so it can be a little confusing for new comers to the hobby.
Another example of different terms is being used is the wording used to describe a Train Station. Depending on where you live, or the type of structure, a Train Station can be described as being a: Railroad Station, Railway Station, Railway Terminal, Railway Terminus, Railroad Terminal, Railroad Terminus, Train Depot and Train Station.
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
