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!
Turnout or Loco Problem?
Caleb who is new to the hobby posted this question:
“What brand manufacturer and type of turnout is best to stop shorting out when my train passes over? I have a Walthers code 83 turnout. Can I do something to the turnout or train to fix this?”
Add your comment below if you would like to assist Caleb.
Newest in the Series – The Gainsborough Group Industrial Equipment Background Building
This large background industry building is the latest in the series of 6 new downloadable color plans available on the website https://www.modelbuildings.org/background-buildings
Feedback from customers who have already made some of the other 5 buildings in the series has been really positive. Thank you, and well done, to those who have sent in photos.
Locomotive Address and Lights Default Setup Factory Reset
Peter models HO and asks:
“I recently did a factory reset (CV8 to 8). All the features I want, lights, etc. work great. The question is if I change my loco address to the cab number of the loco will that change my light’s default setup? I am presently using address 03.”
Add your answer or comment below.
Lighting in Buildings
Jim kindly sent in the idea to share with others:
“Not a question — but a great suggestion. Someone posted a question earlier about lighting in buildings. Here is a suggestion for blocking the light on the walls. Instead of using black paint or construction paper, try contact paper – wood pattern which works just fine. Cut and stick!!!”
If you have an idea to share, send it in using the Ask A Question link below.
Occupancy Detection DCC++ and JMRI
Kane posted this question:
“I surprised myself by getting DCC++ and JMRI working on my layout. Will current draw detection responding across the whole block be needed? I obviously want trains to pass into adjacent blocks, so would like to know the options I have. Thank you in advance.”
The Little Engine That Could – I think I can. I think I can. I think I can. I know I can.
In the spirit of Watty Piper, author of “The Little Engine That Could”, Ron submitted this question:
“I have a charming little engine that I’m sure I can hear puffing out ‘I think I can, I know I can’. I get the feeling it wants to grow into a DCC engine, and I would like that too! My little switcher is an 040 by Model Power. It was cheap to buy (no offense little engine), so I am uncertain if it can ever become DCC? Can someone say yes or explain how I am to break the bad news to my little engine if it can’t ever become DCC? Please help!!!”
Engine Direction DCC
Malcolm writes:
“I just spotted Peter’s question about lights with his dcs52 control. I also have a dcs52 but my new Bachmann engine is running opposite to how the throttle is set. Why would this be the case? Thank you.”
If you can advise Malcolm, please use the comments link.
Don’t forget to post your own questions using the Ask A Question link.
Problems With Genesis Big Boy Locomotive
Douglas asks readers for help:
“I’ve been a model railroader for over 65 years. However, I’ve run into a problem that I cant solve. My Genesis Big Boy will not reprogram. Are you aware of how or where I can program an NCE powercab for this loco?”
Comparing Peco Track With Hornby Track
Andrew is new to OO and posted this question:
“I am a beginner. I have been told to buy Peco track. What are the advantages of Peco or Hornby track and what can you advise me to buy?”
If you can offer Andrew some words of wisdom, please do.
HOn3 Comparison With HO
Rick asks:
“Can HO rolling stock trucks be switched out to N scale trucks to accommodate HOn3 style modeling on narrow gauge track? Does a HOn3 engine look proportional with HO rolling stock? If HO rolling stock trucks can be switched to accommodate HOn3 for narrow gauge track would the rolling stock be too long for the smaller radius turns? Is there a special size truck that can be used for this application?”
You can add your comments below.
Locos Traction Wheels
Ricardo from Buenos Aires, Argentina writes:
“Dear folks my first train set has been Marklin and eventually came over to DC. Don’t know why but since the year dot Marklin added 2 rubber bands to locos traction wheels to improve adherence. Well, if they were stripped of the rubber bands, how would the ride? How many cars could they move?”
Solving Point Problem When Running Switcher Locos
Hugh asks readers:
“I have a Peco electrofrog point and run my 3 large locos ok. The problem is when I run my 2 small switcher engines that pass over the point (frog end) they briefly stall before moving on. It only happens in one direction so I’m a bit baffled. Help please.”
Use the COMMENTS link under this post to add your suggestion(s) and view the answers. Use the ASK A QUESTION link to submit your own question for publication.
What Would Be Your Pick Of Model Train Locomotives?
I thought it might be fun and enlightening to hear some opinions and preferences from our blog readers.
So…
Imagine if you could operate only one locomotive on your layout. What make and model would it be, and why?
Tell others about your favorite loco by adding a comment below.
Solving and Avoiding Stripped Screw Threads In Plastics
Allen J writes:
“Does anyone know how to fix stripped screw threads in plastics? I have been disassembling then re-assembling things and some screws are not gripping the plastic. I thought I was being careful re-inserting the screws into existing holes, but obviously not. I can’t be the only one with this problem?”
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
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