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Engine Condition

Phil writes:

“I ran across a Lionel engine that is about 70 yrs old and in poor condition. I have attempted to clean it up, but I can’t get the engine drive wheels to move manually. I only have the engine and some cars. The engine is a Lionel 027. Any info on this train would be appreciated.”

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Quality of Locomotives

Andy asks:

“Hi all. I’m getting back into the hobby after a 40-year absence. There is a good deal going on an N scale loco that I like. Can I have a consensus from your readers on the quality/reliability of Broadway Limited Imports equipment? Thanks in advance”

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Broadway Limited Rolling Thunder Compatible With MRC 2000

Chris asks:

“I have an original MRC 2000 DCC system that runs up to 10 HO scale trains. I just purchased a beautiful CSX Broadway Limited rolling thunder and I’m hoping the sound functions will work with my MRC 2000. Anybody know?

You can contribute your comments below.

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Broadway GE ES44AC

Don Models N Scale and posts this question:

“I cannot get the 3 Broadway GE ES44AC that I own to run at more than a crawl. I have changed cv’s as per advice to no avail. Any help with the settings would be appreciated. They run on a very large Digitrax layout. Thank you.”

Please contribute your thoughts if you are able to assist Don.

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NEW Background City Series – Pack C

Download, print, and build these buildings from the latest catalog.

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Wire Connections – 12 Gauge, 20 Gauge, 22 Gauge

Gary models in HO and posted this question:

“I will have drops 20 gauge to 22 gauge wires and will run a 12g buss. I presume I can’t use suitcase connectors to connect the 20g or 22g to a 12g wire. However, I can only locate yellow t taps for 12g which need a 10g or 12g connecting wire on a spade. Can I use yellow t taps for 12g with 20g or 22g wire on the spade? I hope this doesn’t sound too confusing because I am starting to get confused myself now? HA! HA!”

Contribute your thoughts below.

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NEW Background City Series – Pack B

Now available to download, print, and build to OO scale, N scale or HO scale.

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Types of Bachman Track

Vic models HO and writes:

“I have an older Bachman train set that has track that uses track connectors. I cannot find this type of track anywhere. All I can find is the EZ Track type that snaps together. Does anyone know what the type of track I have is called and where I can buy more?”

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NEW Background City Series – Pack A

Download – Print – Build

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Which Bachmann Turnout For 22″ Radius Curve?

Jammie asks:

“I want the best HO Bachmann turnout for a 22″ radius curve. I read the #5 turnout is for 18″ radius curves, but which is suitable for 22 inch?”

Add your suggestions below.

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ON SALE – 13 Plans To Make A Wild West Town Complete With Saloon, Sheriff Office, School House, Telegraph Office, General Store, etc.

https://www.modelbuildings.org/wild-west-town-pack-deal-c/

The street scene photo above was kindly supplied by Mike Racine.

Mike said, “I named the town Racine City Nevada. I built this for my Pop because he loves old west stuff. The buildings were awesome and easy to build. It just takes a little patience, a steady hand (sort of), and a bit of creativity. The cool thing is you can add whatever woodworks on the outside and the combinations are endless. I just wanted to that with your products and a good imagination you can make any train layout or diorama a beautiful work of art.”

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Double Shelf Layout

Hanks asks readers:

“I am building an HO double shelf layout in a small room. The question is, how high should the second shelf be if I am going to use a helix to reach it? If possible please be specific and detailed in your response. Thanks.”

Contribute your suggestions below.

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Turntable Reverse Polarity

Tony models OO and asks:

“Having got my Arduino-controlled Turntable working at last, will I have to reverse the polarity of the complete railway setup when the engine does a 180-degree turn on the turntable? And, if so, how do I do it? Ta in advance for your help.”

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Making Hay Bales For A Diorama Scene

Mark asks:

“In the scale HO I wish to create hay bales… any suggestions will be helpful. I have constructed a stable and have horses. I am looking for a felt-like fabric to paint maybe? Like the stuff hats are made of. Any ideas please?”

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DCC Engine Sounds Working on Older MRC Command 2000 Control

Chris models HO scale and asks:

“I just bought a beautiful CSX broadway limited rolling thunder engine, so I’m wondering if the sound (not the thunder part) will work on my old MRC Command 2000 controller?”

Add your comments below.

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No Track Power After Ballasting

Darryl runs HO and would like some help:

“I ballasted about a third of my track and have tried to run a train, but no power to the track. It worked before with good voltage, and I haven’t changed any wiring. I have DCC and the cab still has power. Where should I start? Hoping for some help.”

Add your comments (or view comments) below.

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Track Nails – In or Out?

Ryan asks:

“Should I take the track nails out after ballasting?”

Add your thoughts below.

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Upgrading Existing Couplers with Remote Control

Jacob posted:

“I saw the attached idea online and wondered if anyone had any experience attaching tiny threads to operate the knuckle coupler?”

Add your comments below.

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