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Loco Wheels Trying to Run…But The Loco Stays Still – Why?
David writes:
“I have an HO Scale KATO 37-6110 Amtrak Phase V Late GE P42 Genesis Diesel #19 Standard DC. I have had this engine since Apr. 18, 2023 and purchased it online. It stopped running after about 5 months and passed the warranty date. I didn’t know how to fix the problem.
Is it possible my layout, is causing the issue as it has a grade % of a 3-inch drop and a run out of 10 foot? Could the problem have been caused by the engine running faster downhill and laboring going up? The wheels look clean.
Can that damage the engine in some way? If we cannot find the problem should I replace the truck motors front and back? I can do that because I have found the truck motors online. Thank You much!”
If you can assist David, please add your comments under this post.
Model Train Poll Results – How long have you been a model railroader?
The results of our readers poll are in. The question –
How long have you been a model railroader?
30 to 50 years (23 Votes)
50+ years (18 Votes)
5 to 10 years (11 Votes)
20 to 30 years (9 Votes)
10 to 20 years (8 Votes)
2 to 5 years (5 Votes)
Under 2 years (4 Votes)
I have not yet started in the hobby (3 Votes)
Thanks to everyone who took part.
This Quick 3 Minute Tutorial Shows How This Scale Model Creamery Milk Factory Was Constructed Step-By-Step
You can download this plans for this scale model and/or the other models in the series at
https://www.modelbuildings.org/railroad-industries-scale-models
These background buildings are perfect for displaying behind track and against backdrops on HO scale, N scale, or S scale model railroads.
Noch 60873 Modellwasser Artificial Water Problem
Rob writes:
“I’ve used the Noch Model Water product and after 3 days, it has dried cloudy as opposed to clear. I applied it in one pour, to a depth up to about 3mm and left it outside under an awning (with no direct sunlight, wind or rain). Can anyone tell me what I have done wrong? Can anyone tell me how to fix it (other than to rip it out and try again)? Thanks in advance.”
Painting Boxcars
Philip asks:
“I was going to repaint several old boxcars by hand with a bush, but saw little cans of Tamiya model spray paints in an art store. Has anyone used them? Would this be easier and give a smoother finish than using a paint brush?”
To answer Philip’s question, or to view the answers, click on the COMMENTS link below.
WATCH This Free Demo Showing How To Make Background Industry Building For Your Model Train Layout
You can download the plans for these background industry buildings at
https://www.modelbuildings.org/rail-yard-warehouses-pack-deal
The web page also has a helpful chart showing the approximate sizes of these buildings in HO scale, OO scale, N scale as well as the life size equivalent.
RESULTS OF MODEL TRAIN POLL – New Year Model Railroading Resolutions
Last week the question was asked:
Have you made any New Year model railroading resolutions, or have you set any goals for this coming year relating to your model trains or layout?
The following replies came in from readers:
YES – I decided to complete a project I started (28 Votes)
YES – I decided to increase my understanding of DCC (26 Votes)
YES – I decided to begin a new project (24 Votes)
YES – I decided to improve my knowledge of the hobby (22 Votes)
No – I haven’t made any specific resolutions relating to the hobby (22 Votes)
YES – I decided to purchase some new trains, accessories, or structures (21 Votes)
YES – I decided to resolve a problem that has been annoying me (15 Votes)
YES – I decided to clean my layout (15 Votes)
Yes – I decided to increase my understanding of Arduino or other technologies (14 Votes)
YES – I decided to expand my layout (8 Votes)
Unfortunately, I don’t have a layout yet (10 Votes)
Will Weathering Affect The Resale Price Of Trains?
Ian asks:
“I probably have another year or 2 before I seriously start thinning out my train collection. I have weathered 17 engines over time and wondered if has increased or decreased their resale value. I think I’ve done a good job but that might not be what buyers are looking for. Has anyone sold similar engines weathered versus box new condition?”
You can post a comment or suggestion below.
How To Make Tunnels and Tunnel Portals For Your Model Train Layout
Plans for the tunnel portals mentioned in this video are available for download from
Desoldering Track and Wires
Duncan asks readers:
“Does anyone know the best way to desolder track? I want to separate several lengths of tracks, but on the first one I tried the rail heated and it came loose from a tie. Please advise. Thanks”
You are welcome to contribute your thoughts by using the COMMENTS link below.
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