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!
Front Wheels Jump Track
Timothy asks readers:
“I have several HO engines that the front wheels jump the track, even on straight sections. They act like there is a spring missing that may hold wheels to the track. I don’t see where there is any place to put them (springs). Not just one brand either.”
Types of Diesel Locomotive Bodies
Here are three different body styles seen on Pacific National diesel locomotives. In front is the cab unit; the middle is the hood unit; with the box cab at the rear. Sure to bring back some memories for some.
How to Wire Double-Throw (DPDT) Switch
Lester model N scale and asks readers:
“I like to know how to wire a DPDT switch. I own a DCC system NCS. I want to make a section on my main track as a program track. It is isolated from my main track. What I need is a diagram on how to wire it so that the program track becomes a main track when it is thrown on and the other way the program track has power and the main doesn’t.”
Cleaning Engines
Allan has a question for readers:
“Hi, I live in an area with high sulphur content and have a few engines that are getting slow and are showing signs of contamination around the brass copper etc and want to clean this off but not sure what to do or use? Any help please.”
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.”
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