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!
Model Railroaders – Where Do You live?
The results of our latest reader poll are in. The question – Where Do You live?
Results were as follows:
USA (51%)
Australia/New Zealand (16%)
United Kingdom (11%)
Canada (11%)
Somewhere else in Europe (6%)
South Africa (4%)
Asia (1%)
Metal Wheels For Model Trains
Ralph asks readers:
“Can someone tell me he differences between a 33″ and a 36″ HO wheel and how to measure these wheels?”
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.
Soldering Track
Max asks:
“I’ve chosen to go N scale and am finding the small size good but challenging in some ways. What are the downsides if I don’t solder or wire each rail section?”
Please post your comments under this question if you can assist Max.
Car Weights
Terry model HO scale and asks:
“I have a variety of car types on my layout and wondered if there’s a proper weight for each different car type?”
You can add your comments/thoughts below.
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.”
Kato Motor Removal
Wayne models N Scale and posts this question:
“How do you take the motor out of a Kato EMD E8/E9 without damaging the contact strips on the top?”
To help Wayne please post your thoughts below.
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.
P2K Diesel E8 Derails
David asks:
“I can’t figure why my P2K E8 derails coming off my turnout. I checked it over and can’t find the cause?”
If you can help David, then please add your comment or suggestion under his post.
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)
Gearing of Engines
Jim asks:
“What is Super Gearing, what does or what is it supposed to do, and how does it affect engine performance? Is this worth the time and effort to install? Just curious.”
Regauge Loco Wheels
Allan asks:
“I need a few tips on regauging loco wheels – diesel and steam. I have 3 diesel locos and 1 steam.”
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
Motor Brushes Replacement
Scotty writes:
“I have an older model HO Flying Scotsman. Whilst cleaning motor, one of the brushes broke. Does someone know where I can get a replacement? Thanks.”
Post your suggestions below.
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