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!
When to Use a Rectifier for Lighting
Tony M posted this question for readers:
“My question is about adding lights to buildings on my layout. The bulbs I have are 1.5v and my power packs are 19v ac output. My buildings I have that already have lights work ok, but the 1.5v bulbs blow when I hook them up, which is because of voltage difference. I am just a bit unsure how to fix this problem. Do I need a rectifier?”
Crossover Problem
Chris asks: “I’ve a problem with my HO Atlas (X) cross over in that I get a stall and will not go through. If I power through it sometimes works and others a hesitation. I’m running straight DC with equipment from the 1960-1970’s except for track (Peco & Atlas).”
Resolving A DCC Problem
Franks is hoping someone can assist with this problem:
“I have 2 identical OO gauge BR 0-4-0 Class 06 diesel shunters. At present I have an oval test track. I have fit identical Decoders to both (laissdcc 2 function 6 pin). One runs perfectly well in the direction that the other trains with the same decoder run but one only runs the opposite way. It runs perfectly in forward and reverse but if I turn it round to run the same way as the other trains it will not go in either forward or reverse. Presently I am using a Hornby select controller as I am waiting for the return of my NCE powercab from America. I have tried altering the wiring in the loco all to no effect. Could this just be a faulty decoder or is it something to do with the loco or Hornby select. Any replies would be much appreciated. One very frustrated modeler.”
Laying Atlas 100 Super Flex Track
Joseph has this question:
“Guys. I need a straight answer please. When laying HO flex track does it matter how you lay it? It’s about split right now some say out side some say inside some say it don’t matter. Please help I’m really confused. I’m building a 20 x 12 foot layout and I’m looking for the right way and the best way to go about it. Thanks guys.”
Replacement Parts for 1935 American Flyer Steam Engine
Raymond has this question for readers:
“I inherited my fathers 1935 American Flyer Passenger O27 Train set years ago. I have a problem where the front and rear wheels are falling apart. They are made of white pot metal. I cant seem to find any replacements for them. Does anyone have any knowledge of where to purchase replacements?”
Power to O Scale Outdoor Layout
Matt asks:
“I need some help with how to power my outdoor O-scale train. I have probably 100 feet of track and I’m assuming the power source that came with my small MTH set will not be sufficient. Can anyone direct me to some help?”
How To Make A Fire Scene
Ron K has N scale and asks readers for advice:
“I want to model a small fire scene in a building complete with smoke, flames, fire trucks etc. Can someone give me some hints on how to make this look real?”
Ron, I included a couple of fire scenes I spotted at recent train shows.
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Fixing Problem Crossovers and Switches
Derek asks readers:
“Bachmann nickel silver #5 switches and #6 crossovers look good, but don’t operate that well. I’m having problems with derailments when a train enters a turnout. The rails seem to move a fraction, just enough to create a gap. The frogs are okay. The first 4 or 6 engine wheels usually make it over the turnout without a problem. However, problems can happen when the wheels on the following trucks pass over the same spot. They often want to go in a different direction.
I thought I might have a go trying to fix it with my Dremel tool by grinding the stationary rails so as to create a small notch where they touch the moving rails. I wondered about strengthening the springs underneath the turnouts, but I’m not sure if this is a good idea or how to go about it.
I would really appreciate some advice from others who know more about these problems than I do. Thanks.”
The ASK A QUESTION link is under every post if you have a question you would like published.
Loksound Decoder Problem
Graeme has this question for readers:
“Hi I have an N scale Kato sdp40f fitted with a loksound decoder. My question is when I want it to move off there is a 2-3 second delay before it moves, now this would not be a problem except I have it hooked up to two other locos which move off straight away. I’ve tried adjusting start voltage and cvs 2-5-6 as well as cvs 3 acceleration and 4 de acceleration but I can’t get rid of the delay before moving off any ideas on how to make it move off as soon as power is applied other than that it runs great the loksound was Kato factory fitted.”
Rotating Beacon on Model Railroad Problem
Bob models S scale and sent in this question for readers:
“I have a rotating beacon that does not rotate. No sure how the fins on the top should be angled? The beacon is connected to 18v on my transformer. I have adjusted the vanes but still does not rotate.”
Problem with Digitrax Decoder
Richard has HO scale and wants to hear from others:
“I have two Digitrax decoders that I have sent back to the company for repairs at least 5 times. They said there must be something I am doing wrong and they refuse to help me, but I have two other engines which are running fine on the layout as well. Each time I get the decoders back they test fine on my Ulrich Decoder tester, then when I hook them up to the engines they stop, and the red light on the testor comes on. Am I missing an hv number or what am I doing wrong?”
Problem with DCC Programming
Steve sent in this question for fellow train buffs:
“My son recently purchased what he was told were HO DCC locomotives. One is a Bachmann that is DCC equipped and is working fine. The other is an Atlas FM Trainmaster that we can’t seem to program to run. I tried loco 3 setting as well as the road number. The lights will come on, but it sounds like a dial-up modem. So my question is, did Atlas offer this locomotive in DC? I looked for information on the web, but only found information on it in DCC with sound. Any help would be appreciated.”
Problem with Chattering and Oscillating Servo Point Motors
He is a question posted by Barrie:
“I have a problem with the servo motors that control the turnouts on our N scale club layout chattering or oscillating when an old type DC loco is run on the layout. This doesn’t happen if new type locos are run or the system is run as DCC (Our N scale Layout has been wired to operate as DC or DCC). The club N scale layout has a HO/OO layout directly below and when they run some of their old DC locos it causes their turnouts and ours to chatter. I think it may be RFI generated by the loco motor and the minute sparking that occurs at the loco wheels while running. We have used about 70 model aircraft type servo motors to control all the turnouts on both layouts. These turnouts are wired back to electronic control boards around the layout that can each handle 8 servos.
Each servo is then operated by single pole single throw switch on the main schematic panel which is wired back through the electronic control board. The N & HO/OO turnout systems are separate and each is powered by a 5v & 12v computer type power supply. The turnout power system is also electrically separate from the track power supply. Any suggestions how we can overcome this problem would be appreciated.”
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