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!
Kadee 148 Whisker Verses Number 5 Couplers
Neville asks”
“I have 3 older Athearn diesels dating back to the ’80s and one a bit earlier. Looking at the coupler boxes I think the Kadee Whisker #148 might be my best option. Any thoughts?”
You can post your thoughts below. Thank you.
How To Maximize Your Track Space – WATCH VIDEO
Save up to 77% on background building plans here https://www.modelbuildings.org/background-buildings/
Download the latest catalog showing the full range of buildings here https://www.modelbuildings.org/catalog/
Shrink Tubing Instead of Bullfrog Snot?
Lee who models in N scale asks”
“Have you guys tried shrink tubing on traction tires? Will it work?”
Please post your thoughts below if you are able to assist Lee.
Strip Paint From Athearn and Atlas Shells
Kent asks:
“I want to strip the paint from one Atlas and one much older blue-box Athearn. I read to use 91% isopropyl alcohol but wondered how safe the stuff is, do I just soak it in a container of some kind (for how long), and/or scrub it (using what)? I would do it right rather than guess. Thanks if you can help.”
To advise Kent please post your comments underneath.
Download These 9 True-To-Life scale Model Houses and 4 Garages Perfect For HO Scale, N Scale, Or OO Scale Railroads
You can access the plans to make these 9 houses and 4 garages ready for download here https://www.modelbuildings.org/9-houses-and-4-garages-pack-deal ???
Cutting Rails
Gavin asks:
“I was given some old track that I could cut to prototypical lengths for staging and trackside scenery. I don’t think rail nippers will do the job. Any thoughts?”
Please add your thoughts below to assist Gavin.
Problem With Kadee Couplers Uncoupling
Shawn asks:
“I use both the regular Kadee couplers and the magnetic type. Problem is; with cars uncoupling during operations. My layout is flat so there are any grade issues. I thought it might be because the couplers weren’t all at the same height, but they seem to be. Help if you can please.”
You can assist Shawn by posting your comments and suggestions below.
Watch Young Railroader Make His First Building
https://www.modelbuildings.org/industries-structures-industrial-scale-models-for-trains/
New Locomotive Suggestions
Craig models in HO and posted this question:
“I am looking to add a DC locomotive to my operation. I have 18 degree rail with tight operations. The setup is early sixties era. Any suggestions?”
You can add any suggestions to guide Craig under this post.
55 Atlas Turnout Issue
Melvin asks:
“My trains run smoothly except for a little hesitation on my 55 Atlas turnout points. Would the poor connection be due to a lot of use or corrosion? I would like some suggestions from anyone who has been thru this. Thanks in anticipation.”
Contribute your comments and view comments from other readers below.
How to Select The Right DCC Decoder
Clifford asks:
“I know I’m a slow starter, but have finally decided to convert from DC to DCC. My question is which decoders to purchase for my various locomotives. How do I match up a loco model with the correct decoder and sound system?”
You can submit your comments below to assist Clifford.
Watch How To Build This Old Wild West Telegraph Office and Stage Coach Depot
You can download the plans and construct to HO, OO, or N scale at https://www.modelbuildings.org/wildwest-mining
Cattle On The Railway Tracks At The Golden State Model Railroad
Layout Rules and Historical Relevance
Dave asks readers:
“Can someone point me to a set/sign of rules for ‘My Model Railroad’ that includes a comment about an anachronism on the layout?”
Layout Automation
Douglas has HO and asks readers:
“Does anyone have experience with layout animation, such as cranes or loaders including loading or unloading things like boxes, coal, cargo, logs, or livestock into or out of model railroad cars. Are there kits for this or are they more home built?”
Flange Depth Code 70 Track
Samuel has an HO question:
“Does anybody know the greatest loco flange depth that can run on code 70 track?”
Reply under COMMENTS below if you can help Samuel.
Which Baseboard Materials To Use?
Justin is starting out in OO and asks:
“I will use 100mm x 50mm timber (I think that’s 2×4 in the USA) for the framework of my first-ever layout. I think that should do the job. I am however I bit unsure about what material to use for the baseboard. Can your readers advise please? Thanking you.”
13 Old Wild West Town Models To Make Including This Authentic Looking Telegraph Office and Stage Coach Station – WATCH VIDEO DEMO
Watch this quick demonstration of how to build the old wild west telegraph office and stage coach station building. You can download the plans and see all 13 wild west models here https://www.modelbuildings.org/wildwest-mining
This video shows construction to OO scale, but the plans can also be constructed to HO scale or N scale.
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
