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!
Spot The Difference – DCC – Arduino
I keep getting comments from a few that the “spot the Difference” puzzles are too easy. I’ve accepted the challenge and added more complexity to this weeks puzzle. Can you find the 12 differences in these pictures? Post your answers using the ‘COMMENTS’ link below. This will test the brain, eyesight and patience. Have fun!
To view larger side by side images of this puzzle Click Here
How To Clean a Locomotive Body
Shaun asks readers:
“At a recent train show I bought a Vintage United Brass 4-8-4 Loco & Tender. I appears to be in reasonable working order but over the years has obviously accumulated plenty of dirt and grime on the shell. I don’t want to damage it trying to clean and restore it. How can I do this WITHOUT damaging the finish?”
Changing Horn Hook Couplers to Knuckle Couplers
Another beginner Larry asks this question:
“I’m relatively new to model railroading and have numerous cars and engines with the horn/hook couplers. I would like to change over to knuckle couplers. The ones I have tried don’t match the height gauge I’m using. They are a little low. Any help is appreciated. “
Getting Stated in Model Railroading
Steve is starting off in the hobby and would like some words of wisdom from those with plenty of experience in the hobby:
“I am new to model railways having last used one when I was much younger (now 64) … an RC model aircraft flyer/builder of a number of years who wants to come in out of the cold.
I have an available layout space of 1.7mx0.53m plus a side section of another 2.4mx0.3m. From what I have already read and been advised it would seem that unless I want a basic A-B layout I should really be considering N gauge and not OO ?
I have been reading as much information as I can …. I think I would like to go with DCC system but have no idea which one. A relative has the E-Z one from Graham Farish and he seems quite happy with that. but there seems to be lot out there. There are a large range of track and locomotive manufactures out there .. any comments on which to avoid … or go for.
Basically my initial thoughts would be to buy a ‘set’ which has the controller with it (and hopefully instructions) to start me off – I am hoping to only use trains etc that would have been around in my youth i.e. 1955-65 say.
So this is really a call for help and advice on which suppliers of track and trains to go for (and avoid) plus any other pointers you think are important BEFORE I start. Many thanks for reading.”
Auto Reversing Question
Richards posts this question for readers:
“When using an HO Bachmann EZ Command Control System Digital Automatic Reverse Loop Module 44912 can standard track be used for a non loop run on DCC. Also any way to build in 4 stops with this or any other module?”
Elevated Switches A Problem?
Daniel models O scale and asks readers:
“Have installed an elevated line using 111 Trestles. I want to add an additional loop using a pair of 022 switches. Has anyone done this? I expect supporting the switch motor would be tough. Any suggestions would be welcomed.”
Trouble Understanding Curve Radius
Brian asks this question:
“Hi everybody. Hope someone will be able to help. I am 77 years old and disabled I decided that i should have a Hobby so started a train set OO scale, my board is 11ft X 38 inches. I am having trouble understanding Radius. I want to have three lines running around can I get away with this what does radius mean. I have laid track but feel the curves are to tight for some coaches to go round. Any advice would be Appreciated.”
Converting Engines To Battery Power For RF
David has this question for readers:
“I had to dismantle my DCC powered HO scale railroad when we moved and am considering RF when I rebuild. Does anyone have any pro and/or con comments about running on RF? I’m also told I have to convert my engines to battery power.”
What’s The Best Train Set For Getting Started?
Dale is keen to get started in model railroading (either HO or N scale) and asks readers:
“I want to get a model train setup that I can operate. I’d like DCC with maybe two locos and an interesting track and stay under $500. Any suggestions?”
Solving Electrical Problem With Locomotive
Dennis models in HO scale and asks readers:
“One of my locos is playing up and won’t work when it’s on the track. If I lift it up slightly from the rear with the front wheels still on the track, the wheels start turning like normal. I’m only having this problem with one loco, the rest are fine. Does someone know a likely cause? Thank you in hope.”
Ben’s Tenterden Model Railway Show Photos
Club Member Ben sent in these photos to share. He snapped them at the Tenterden Model Railway Show in the UK.
How To Wire For Switch Control
Club Member Allan asks readers:
“This hobby is quite new to me so I need some advice. I am a bit confused with turnouts and how to control them. Do I need seperate wiring to control the switches or can I control them with DCC? I’m ok with making scenery and woodworking joinery, but struggle to understand technical wiring issues. Please help.”
Lift Up Access Needed
Howard asks readers:
“I am getting to old (and decrepit????) to continue crawling under my OO table to get to my control panel. I thought of adding a lift-up hinged panel but wondered about movement, track alignment, connections etc. and how to hide the join. I haven’t built it yet, but I’m sure I can if I know what not to get wrong. Advice appreciated!!!”
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
Download Your Free Catalog
Use Tiny Railroad Micro Controllers
Model Train Help Ebook
