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!
Track And Structure Placement
Would someone like to help Jim:
“Talking with different people there seems to be variations as to layout and dimensions for buildings and other structures in proximity to the track as far as closeness. In other words how far is a rail station, loading platform, etc. from the tracks. Can someone give me some guidelines?”
Loops On Track
Would someone like to help Mark
“I have a loop track. I need a module device that shows a one way then loops around other way to back to the same track by show reverse current. Suggestions please.”
DDC Digitrax System
Randy has a DCC question for readers:
“I want to buy a digitrax system but my power suply is 220V 50Hz not a problem to convert to 110v but it will remain at 50Hz and not the 60 Hz that is standerd for 110V. Is this a problem?”
Steam Engines Derail
Would some like to help this reader?
“I have a Bachmann Northern Steam Engine, 4-8-4 that can’t seem to make it through my EZ switches without derailing. I have tried adjusting the space between the 4 by carriage and the body. Does anyone know a trick to solve this problem?”
Add your feedback using the comments and feedback link below.
Magnetic Couplers
George is trying to locate some magnetic couplers and wants advice from others in the hobby:
“I would like a magnetic coupler for a boxcar equipped with a track cleaner. The name on the box it arrived in is “Roco”. It’s made in Austria. The trucks are attached with plastic rivets. Conversion kit PMI FP-45 Kadee 1114 willl not fit. Neither will Micro-trains #1015-1-B. Can someone help me?”
N Scale Portable Layout
Bev is planning a portable layout and wants ideas from readers:
“I am planning on building a very small portable winter scene layout (about 26″ x 4 feet) that I can set up on a table at work during the holiday season. What is the best material to use as a foundation base for an extremely lightweight layout? Any other comments or ideas from anyone would be appreciated.”
To help Bev click on the green Comments and Feedback link below.
HO & N Layout Design Software
Gordon wants to hear from any readers who have used layout design software and asks:
“Can anyone recommend a layout design software that is easy and quick to use. I have a 4×8 layout and I have moved into a new home and I have a 10×20 ft space available. Can anybody give me some advice please?”
To help Gordon use the Comments and Feeback link below his posting.
Switch Trouble On RR Layout
A readers wants to hear from anyone who can help with his switch problem:
“I am having switch trouble, especially with my 4-8-4 steam engine, the front wheels don’t want to stay on the track.”
Add your feedback below this posting.
Switch Codes
A reader question:
“I am new to model trains. I have bought a Bachmann Empire Builder to start. I have a question for your blog readers. My question is what do the codes mean when used with switches?”
To help this newbie please add your feedback below this posting.
Durango Silverton Train Line
Ron has a question for readers on the Durango/Silverton train line and asks:
“What I am really looking for is a Durango/Siverton train set in N guage. The reason is, my grandfather had the first livery stable in the town of Silverton, CO. I visited that town in 1978 and saw a unique area surrounded by high mountains. I wish I had a lead on any model train builder that has the Durango/Silverton train line. Can anyone suggest someone they may know of?
Circuit Diagram For Steam Whistle
Philip wants to make a steam whistle and would like to hear from anyone in the hobby who has already gone through the process:
“I am looking for a circuit diagram for a steam whistle. I know I can buy them but what is the fun in that. Thank you.”
To help Philip add your feedback using the comments and feedback link below his posting.
Lionel 5690 Locomotive
Kevin is a model railroading beginner and has a question for readers:
“I am really new to this train hobby and this may sound silly but – Does anyone know if there is any significance to the number 5690 found in the keystone decal on the front of some Lionel locomotives. I have noticed it on quite a few. Thanks, Kevin”
Share your knowledge and help this beginner to the hobby. Add your feedback and comments below.
Pulse-Pack Transformer
Mike has a transformer question for readers to try and answer:
“I have a small transformer that I would like help identifying. The name on it is “Pulse-Pack”. Other markings are “Model HO” and “LpC” There is no manufacturer, model, or serial data on it. On the front there is a lever with Off, For., and Rev. indicators and a dial with numbers 0, 5 and 10. Also some kind of a external fuse and a red jewel indicator light. Based on this data, I believe it to be a hobby transformer but would like to know what for and how old it is. All help from someone would be appreciated.”
To add feedback to Mike’s posting click on the Comments, Feedback and Answer link below.
Turnouts On Planned Layout
Steve wants to hear from other model railroaders BEFORE he starts work on planning and building his layout. Steve has a question on turnouts:
“I have not yet started my layout because it’s possible we might sell and move if the economy ever changes. My question is what is the difference from a # 4, #6 or what ever the number may be, which # should be used for a turnout for a siding, or a turnout for just starting another run of track? This may sound silly, but if and when I do construct a layout these are the kind of little things I will need to really now. I built a layout years ago with my sons, but I don’t remember having a choice, we just bought some turnouts and they did the job. However, I would like to now why 4’s or 6’s turnouts could make a difference or not.”
To help Steve click on the comments and feedbacl link below.
Steve, can also refer to the section in my Model Train Help ebook for some assistance with his answer.
Powering Remote Electric Switches
Jim has a question to test readers knowledge:
“Can I pull power from my DCC electrical buss to power my remote electrical track switches or must I set up a separate electrical power source e.g., a small transformer?”
Have a go at answering Jim’s question and share your feedback with others by using the green comments link below. I’m sure Jim would like to hear your thoughts.
Atlas Supreme Powered Frog Switches
Paul wants to hear from anyone who uses Atlas Supreme powered frog switches and asks:
“I would like to ask others if Atlas Supreme powered frog switches can be used in a DCC system? I am building a new layout (finishing one started a long time ago) and I am using Atlas Code 100 nickel silver track and Atlas Supreme switches. I have not figured out what DCC system to use, so would appreciate suggestions from others on this issue also. Thanks in advance!”
Help Paul by using the green comments link below his posting.
Select Control
Ian has an OO layout similar, but not exactly the same as, an HO layout and asks readers this question:
“I currently have two circuits of approx 14 metres in total length. I want to join them together with an express lane, also a shunting yard consisting of a turntable. Would my select unit be capable of handling this or would I have to upgrade to the elite.”
Add your feedback using the green comments link below Ian’s posting.
Wiring Atlas Turnout – Switch Controls
Jake is a retired electrical engineer and needs some feedback from others with experience in the hobby. If you would like to help Jake, use the green comments link below this posting. Here is what Jake has to say:
“As a resurrected model railroader your ebook has been very helpful. My purpose for writing is a dilemma I have for wiring Atlas turnout machines that can use panel lights and toggle
switches. I was hoping one of your many readers could advise me.
I know the switch machines have to use momentary switches to avoid coil burnouts. No one in the industry that I have seen makes a switch controller (except maybe Acme) that can be applied to visual panel control.
I currently use the now defunct GH Products lighted switch controls for the mainline which have always been a pain to adjust and are not reliable. It’s no wonder why the company had difficulties. Good idea, poor execution.
I know the tortoise machines provide wiring detail for the above system but
- my layout begun in 1978 is traditional DC with Atlas products and is
track/wiring complete and - the installation of Tortoise machines would be hyper expensive for me and would require me to totally rebuild my 21 turnouts (9 mainline, 12 yard). However I am inclined to rebuild my panel if I find a solution to the switch control problem.
If someone could help an old retired electrical engineer solve this problem it would be greatly appreciated.”
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