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Raised Second Track

Steve writes:

“Hi everyone. I was a newbie and I did a full HO layout for the first time on a 8 x 4 board and really enjoy it. Was thinking about expansion upwards and was thinking of running a raised track on top of the one I have – the only piers/risers I see have flat bottoms which obviously won’t work. Any ideas or is my idea one that can never work. Thanks in advance.”

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Track and Engine Type

A different Mike who posted below writes:

“it’s been a while since I have been in the hobby so do I buy a set or individual engine and cars? Wondering about the type of track, brand for all of the above? I want N scale, diesel, and am looking at small layout and a mining scene. Thanks.”

Please contribute your suggestions to assist Mike below.

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Kato vs Athearn vs Bachmann

Mike asks:

“I am new to the model train world and would like to know Kato engines and rolling stock compares to Athearn and Bachmann? I am about to buy items to set up my first HO scene. Thanks guys.”

Contribute your thoughts below.

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Track Insulators

Barry writes:

“It has been a long time since I have written anything, about anything. We will be moving to the sunflower state (Kansas) and l will have a room for my model railroad HO scale 10 x 12. On the picture is a layout or design if your readers could help me a little on where the track insulators would go? Thanks.”

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C.K. Edwards Auto Industries Parts and Spares Building to Construct in N Scale, OO, or HO Scale

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The Gainsborough Group Industrial Equipment Building For HO, OO, and N Scale Layouts

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Removing Track Ballast

Tony asks:

“Is there a quick way to remove the ballast from sections of track? I inherited the layout and I assume my Dad used some kind of PVA white glue. Can it be dissolved without making too much mess?”

Contribute your thoughts below.

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J.C. Walsh & Sons Engineering – Make to N Scale, OO, or HO Scale

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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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