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!
York Model Railway Show A Big Success
The York Model Railway Show is one of the biggest in the UK and usually hosts around 40 working layouts. These photos were taken at this year’s Easter show. Well done to all involved!
Tips on starting a G scale 5 inch live steam garden railroad
Harper asks readers:
“I wish to start a garden railroad by the time I have a full paying job. I have started planning ahead and already have been looking at a suitable locomotive. Layouts have also been one thing that I have been planning ahead on. My question really, though, is… Is there anything else I need to consider or start planning on?”
The Meaning Of Locomotive Numbers?
Tim asks readers:
“What do the nos. in front of the loco. ,0-6-0, 4-4-0, 4-8-4, etc mean?”
Selecting High Performance Diesel Locomotives
Kevin would like to hear your preferences with regards locomotive brands:
“I am completing an 4′ x 8′ N scale layout and am at the point where I going purchase two diesel locomotives. I am looking for recommendations as to high performing locomotives that other model railroaders have had good experience with. My layout uses Kato Unitrack. Thank you in advance.”
Engine Does Not Run Anymore
Tom is new to O scale as asks readers:
“I have three engines which all stopped running after 10 to 15 minutes on the track. The lights come on. They just do not move. Three other engines have been working fine for days. Any ideas or suggestions?”
Scale Model Animal Figures
Dave models HO and want to add some animal figurines to his layout:
“Can anyone point me to a provider of HO scale pronghorn and bighorn figures?”
Confused With DCC Bus Wires
Bruce models HO and asks readers:
“I’m building a new layout in my garage 24×20. Should I run my bus wire from point A to halfway around one direction, and the other way to half way around, but not joined together at the halfway point? Or should I just make a single loop from point A to point A. Regular street talk will be best for me so I don’t get confused by all the tech talk thanks. Thanks.”
Scale Comparisons N and HO and 00and ON30 – UK and USA
Jordy asks reader:
“What are the ratios in the USA and Canada for all four sizes above compared to those in England?? Are they the same ie – 1:76/1:48/1:87 not sure of N too small for me? Kind regards.”
Can I Convert Track Plans from One Track Brand to Another?
Steven asks:
I have track plans using Atlas track. I already have some Bachmann EZ Track. Is there any way I can convert an Atlas track plan to using EZ Track?
World’s 25 Most EXTREME & DANGEROUS Railroads
Part 1 (Sorry about the ads on these videos. They are out of my control. I can’t get rid of them.)
Part 2
TMCC Trainmaster Command Control
Ian asks readers:
“I don’t know about T.M.C.C. and would appreciate any pointers to help fill in my knowledge gap. I have heard others talking about Radio Control similar to model aircraft and wonder if it a real possibility to set up this method as I am about to retire D.C. for my H O setup and am at the decision time. Comments from the Blog will be of great assistance.”
Train Restoration
David models S scale and sent in this question for readers:
“I am trying to locate a restorative service that provides the good quality. Also desire to replace incandescent with LED and install can motor, etc. Thank You.”
Metal Loco Kits
Fred asks readers:
“Does anyone know anything about the manufacturer ‘SKR’ who make N gauge white metal loco kits?
I have two of them but can’t find any references to the manufacturer in case of spares. Any help appreciated.”
Confusion With DCC
Drew needs advice from readers and asks:
“I have a rather large HO layout – arranged in a L shape – 20 ft x 8 ft – which I am converting to DCC. Since DCC is supposedly AC power (or so I have been told), why are boosters needed since AC keeps a constant current regardless of the distance to the power supply (well, within reason…)? I have also purchased two (2) boosters for my layout. Since I now have three power supplies does it matter where I place the boosters on the “L”? Thanks VERY much for the answers!”
Add your comment or suggestion below this posting if you can help Drew.
Finding Logging Locos (Shays)
Bryan asks readers:
“I finally have the time to enter the hobby, and really want to do something in the logging industry. I’ve been dreaming for years, but not watching prices! Where in the world does one find HO Shay’s these days for less than $1200?!!
I’d really like to join in on the hobby, but seriously, how in the world can you get started at those prices? Also, it seems that availability (why prices are so high?) is really limited. Any direction/advice is really appreciated.”
Digital Command System vs TrainMaster Command Control
Steve asks readers:
“Hi, I really (think I) want to move from Conventional to DCS (Digital Command System) / TMCC (TrainMaster Command Control). The current O scale layout is 8 x 16, and use Conventional Postwar, Modern, and TMCC Lionel, along with Modern P1, P2, and P3 MTH Locomotives.
- The current Layout
- 8 track blocks using 2 ZW transformers.
- Three (3) Mainlines connected by 2 common sections, with 3 spurs off the main lines.
- Switches are isolated power (non-track) connected to a Lionel 1033,
- Accessories are toggle switched to an LW.
- The 3 main tracks run off 3 bus lines with dropdowns about every 6 feet.
- The two common sections are wired directly to two(2) ZW terminals.
- The layout is basically two separate large loops – an upper and a lower level- with an inner figure 8.
- At the south end the figure 8 and the lower outside loop use a common track section about 6 feet long. At the north end the upper and lower outside loops share a common track for about 2 feet.
So my transformers power an “A” loop, “B” loop, “C” loop as Mains, an “A-B” common, and an “A-C” common, then the 3 isolated spurs on the remaining 3 terminals. Each uses a separate ZW terminal. The remainders are on the ZWs are for isolated sidings,Everything is color coded so I pretty well know what wires goes to what.
So my questions are:
1) TMCC vs DCS
2) What’s involved in moving to DCS / TMMC
3) Can I run post war, and my moderns
One problem I do currently have is that unless my isolated blocks are all at the exact voltage the post war Locos trip into neutral when changing blocks.
Can you help me please?”
Which Locos Have The Best Pulling Power?
Gary asks readers for brand and model preferences:
“Which HO locomotives are the best when it comes to pulling power?”
Layout Sideboards O Scale
Daniel asks readers:
“I am using 1″ foam on top of plywood tables. I would want to apply side boards to all sides to protect foam edges. Should it be higher than foam for other materials over foam, i.e.; ballast , grass, soil, etc? Thanks for any comments.”
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