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!
Would you like to see more “Funny Caption” posts like this one?
That’s the question we asked in the recent poll and over 90% selected “Absolutely – it’s great to read so many clever captions from readers.” There were also nearly 100 funny captions submitted by readers, so I do my best to find some more to include on the blog. Here’s 4 that made the grade (sorry about the pun!).
You can see more of the captions submitted by readers under the earlier post.
Problem With Track Expansion
Andrew asks readers:
“I have a 6×4 foot, HO scale, DC layout with 3 separate tracks. Throughout the hot summer my tracks have expanded under the heat and are taking a while to contract back to the right position. Is there anyone out there who can suggest a way to stop this from happening all together or at least not as severe? “
Turnout Power Supply
Tom asks readers:
“I’m new to the hobby and I just set up my first HO layout. I’m ready to wire it. I have ten Atlas Snap Switches that need power. Atlas recommends an AC power supply that puts out 15 -16 VAC @ 2 – 3 amps. Such a supply seems impossible to find. I’ve seen many people recommend an old computer supply, cellphone charger, etc. . . . but these all put out a DC current. Is there any reason I can’t use DC on the Atlas Snap Switches? (I have two old computer supplies, one puts out 32V @ 3.5 amps, the other 20V @ 11 amps.) Will either of these work without burning out the Snap Switches?”
Old Train Set
Bob asks readers this question:
“My mom just gave me a big box of HO train stuff that I know nothing about. A lot of the cars are dated early 70’s to early 80’s. There is one engine that appears like it was built in the 30’s. I want to set it up for my grandson. It has several engines and lot of track but I don’t see any power supply. What do I need to make it go? Thanks.”
Write a Funny Caption
Let’s have a bit of fun!
Write a funny caption for this old railroad photo and add it to the post by using the “COMMENTS” link below. You’ll also be able to see funny captions supplied by others.
You can also comment on other captions submitted and rate your favorite.
Enjoy!
P.S. Share this posting with your railroading buddies on Facebook or by email. I’m sure they’ll enjoy laughing at the captions too!
Supporting A Layout From Garage Roof Beams
Stewart asks readers for advice:
“How practical would it be to lift a 8×3 layout by chains and pulleys to the supporting beams in my garage so I can park the wifes Suzuki Swift underneath? I would get into terrible trouble if I damaged her pride and joy. Would it be easy to lift, will it tip sideways, and how safe would it be? Could I lower it onto saw horses for support?”
Spot The Difference – 9 Changes to this Fire Scene
Apologies if last weeks spot the difference puzzle was too difficult, but it was in response to a few requests. Maybe I went overboard, however a few still solved the puzzle correctly. Add your answers by using the COMMENTS link below.
This week you can also see the puzzle horizontally (with 9 differences to spot) if that makes it easier to view. Click here.
Problem with Re-assembly of Locomotive
Mark needs help from readers:
“I dis-assembled my Ho AT & SF steam engine to clean. The wheels are connected by two metal strips and the mounting holes are not symmetrical. When operating, the motion of the two bars were an opposing X pattern. I didn’t think to mark them as I never imagined the asymmetry or this problem. I think I tried all of the possible (8) combinations but the wheels lock up every time. Help please.”
Poll Results: Which of these model railroading technologies have you tried?
335 model railroaders responded to the question: Which of these model railroading technologies have you tried? Obviously multiple answers were allowed:
- LED Lights (58%)
- DCC (57%)
- Downloadable Ebooks (43%)
- Downloadable Model Buildings (42%)
- JMRI Software (11%)
- Arduino Electronics (7%)
Learn about Arduino Electronic on model railroads here.
Walthers 130′ turntable used with DCC?
Richards questions readers on this:
“I have the older HO Walthers 130′ turntable which is not DCC ready. Do I need to make any modifications to use it on my DCC layout? I am not concerned with the control for the turntable as that can still run off of aux power, but I don’t know if there is common wiring between the motor control for the turntable and the bridge track itself. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!”
Trestle Kit Question
James has a question he is hoping a reader will help him with. I presume he has contacted the supplier without success otherwise he wouldn’t be asking the question?:
“I have a JV-models HO trestle kit #2014. The instruction say to transfer bent diagram to plywood. The bent diagram is only 5 1/2″ tall and 3′ WIDE AT BASE. The bents can be built to 18″, is the base 3″ at 18″ hgt or is to be extrapolated out to 18″ which would make them 5 1/2″ wide.”
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?”
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
Download Your Free Catalog
