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!
Write A Caption For This Strange Photo
The Bay of Quinte Railway was a small regional rail line located in Hastings County, ON, Canada. This unusual photo shows a collision between two engines back in 1892.
How you you think it happened? Add your comments below.
Our readers like funny captions so, if you are feeling creative, you are welcome share one for everyone to enjoy.
What Height Should A Telegraph Pole Be?
Pradyot from the UK models in N Scale and has this question for readers:
“What is the correct height of a telegraph pole in N scale? The height of signal post please? ”
Add your comments or answers using the COMMENTS link, or if you have a question you would like considered for publication on this blog, simply use the ASK A QUESTION link.
DCC and Turnouts – What Will Work?
Ed sent in this question for readers to tackle:
“I’m in the process of building my first N Scale layout. I’m using Kato Unitrack and an NCE PowerCab. I have yet to figure out the best way to operate my #6 Kato turnouts. Can a Digitrax DS64 be used with the NCE PowerCab for this purpose? If not, is there any other “turnkey” product that a non-electrical savvy person use?”
Add your answer, or view the answers, in the COMMENTS below.
Submit your question to the Blog Moderator using the ASK A QUESTION LINK.
Train Set To Run Around Ceiling
Alan would like help from readers with planning his O scale layout:
“I am about to build a model railroad helix in o-scale. I have found a woodworking house to cut the segments employing something called a c in C machine. I am opting to use a full sheet of plywood and since I need 10 segments to raise the train four feet, between the purchase of the plywood and the cutting, it is quite costly, so before proceeding I thought I would ask for your insight. Additionally, I request you provide me with an opinion on what O-scale track to use? I intend to run this along my ceiling and need approximately 200 linear feet plus the curved track for the helix. Lastly what radius of curved track would you use? Any assistance/insight you provide will be most appreciated!”
Add your comment below.
What’s the Maximum Length of Flex Track?
Mari models N scale and posted this question:
“Trains usually derail at rail joints on curves. If rails 10 feet long are used, we can avoid joints on curves. Is there any way to make rails 10 feet long? Are they sold sold? Are flex tracks 10 feet long sold?”
Add your COMMENTS below.
Using A Helix Design Tool
Gary sent in this question for readers:
“I have now used a helix design tool, but need to know how to transfer it to a 4’x8′ sheet of plywood.
Any available conversion to a full size pattern?”
Here is a link to a free helix design tool.
Creating a Rail Yard
Brock sent in this question for others to comment on:
“I would like to have a goods yard on my British Railways OO/HO layout. Any Advice?”
Unfortunately this question is rather vague so it will be hard for readers to provide good answers. Perhaps Brock could add some more specific details in the COMMENTS under this post.
VGN Electric EL-2B Locomotive
Here is a question from Roba who would like to know the value of a locomotive:
“I have an HO VGN RR EL-2B electric locomotive that is in mint condition still in the box. I used to live beside the VGN RR and remember the locomotive very well. It used to run from Elmore WV to Roanoke VA. until 1959 when it was discontinued after the VGN merged with the Norfolk & Southern RR. Anyone know what the value of this loco Is? I could be wrong on the date. They merged in 1959 but the Loco may have run a little while longer. Thanks in advance”
This blog doesn’t do buy/sell/or swap so contact details are not exchanged.
Converting a Triang R159A/R250A Victorian Railways (Australia) B Class Loco to DCC
Ian who model in HO sent in this question:
“I have a Victorian Railways (Australia) B Class double ended Bulldog Cabins – GM/EMD F3A – that I want to convert to DCC. The bogies are all metal bogies, so consequently when the loco is placed on the tracks it automatically shorts. I’m led to believe that it is possible to DCC this locomotive. Can any of your readers confirm this for me please? Also what is the best way to achieve the end result? Thanks in advance.
Add your comments below.
Buster Keaton Rides A Train – 1923 – VERY FUNNY!
Comedian Buster Keaton was a pioneer of silent comedies in the 1920’s.
Keaton loved trains and had Stephenson’s Rocket recreated along with just on a mile of rickety track just for this film. Will the train stay on the track? It is kinda crazy, but an historic masterpiece.
Add your comment below.
Is Block Wiring a Good Idea when Running DCC?
Ben has OO and asks readers:
“I heard block wiring is not necessary for DCC, whereas with DC it was essential. Although that makes sense, surely on DCC it would still be sensible to isolate electrical problems by isolating one block at a time?
I know people use multiple drops with DCC as a way of evenly distributing power and increasing reliability. So maybe I’m barking up the wrong tree? Feedback appreciated.”
If you have a question you would like published – simply click the ASK A QUESTION link to submit your question for review by the Blog Moderator.
To assist Ben with his question – use the COMMENTS link.
What’s the effect of power routing on decoders?
Online train club member Colin models N scale and asks:
“I am using NCE DCC Power Pro and my question relates to the problems I am having with installing Switch-Cats on my layout. I am wondering if the power routing affects the accessory decoders? I am unable to get the turnouts to work.”
Hard To Find Loco…If It Exists?
This website doesn’t do Buy/Sell/Swap, however Tom more interested in information on a specific HO loco that he thinks he has seen as some time:
“I am looking for a particular model engine that may or may not have been made by someone. The original engine is a Lima 51-ton Consolidation-type 2-8-0 purchased in 1905 by the Cranberry Lake Railroad [a/k/a Rich Lumber Co.] in Wanakena, NY . The build number is 1015.
I realize that it is a longshot to have that exact locomotive modeled by someone. If there is, SUPER! If not, would you know of something close that I could modify?”
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