Model railway's global uber-view

Rail enthusiasts can now enjoy views of Scandinavian fjords, the Swiss Alps, and even Mount Rushmore - in Germany.

Twin brothers Frederick and Gerrit Braun have built the world's longest model railway in the city of Hamburg.

It has six miles of track, cost £8m to build and its 1,150 square metres (12,380 square feet) take in the US, Scandinavia and the Swiss Alps.

By the time the layout is completed in 2014 it will be twice as long and will take in France, Italy and the UK.

The Braun brothers, 41, began work on the Miniatur Wunderland project in 2000.

Their model railway now comprises 700 trains with 10,000 carriages, 900 signals, 2,800 buildings and 160,000 individually designed figures.

It even includes scale models of the Rocky Mountains, Mount Rushmore, the Swiss Matterhorn, and a Scandinavian fjord complete with 4ft cruise ship.

The scenery took 500,000 hours, 700kg of fake grass and 4,000kg of steel to build.

So large is the layout that 160 staff are employed to show visitors around the railway.

"Our idea was to build a world that men, women, and children can be equally astonished and amazed in," said Gerrit Braun, according to the Daily Telegraph newspaper.

"With this attitude we managed to create technology which amazes our visitors."

Source

Train tracks to link Asian nations

Train lovers and travel nuts have long had a dream of going from Europe to Singapore by rail.

The journey to the East goes well as far as China, and the upgrading of tracks - sometimes with high-speed trains - is easing passage as far as Hong Kong.

From then on south, the rail buff, and potential cargo carriers, must wait just a few more years.

From south China into South East Asia is a bigger leap than it looks on the map - and not only for trains.

Diplomacy and funding from France and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have been agreed for the next step, from China to the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi.

And there are more routes being built from Kunming in the Chinese province of Yunnan.

Regional transport specialists told the BBC that two-thirds of the line from Kunming to the Chinese side of the border is completed, and a project is under way on the Vietnamese side to Lao Khai on the border.

MORE from the source at BBC News

France to unveil super-fast train

The AGV (Automotrice Grande Vitesse) train will travel at up to 360km/h (224mph), powered by engines placed under each carriage, the company says.

The unveiling at Alstom's research centre in La Rochelle will be attended by French President Nicolas Sarkozy.

With an engine under each carriage, the AGV - which translates as "high-speed, self-propelled carriage" - is unlike the TGV, which has engines only at the back and front.

The TGV's maximum speed currently is 320km/h.

The AGV's new engines are more energy-efficient and the innovative multiple-unit design allows more passenger space, Alstom says.

It also reduces maintenance costs, the company says.

The new train achieved a new world rail speed record for a train on conventional rails last April, reaching 574.8km/h (356mph).

The Italian operator NTV has already bought 25 of the trains, and will operate them on the Italian high-speed network at a speed of 300km/h in 2011.

Source

Every model railroad magazine in one place!

Ever had a problem finding the great model train magazines that are around these days? Perhaps they do not stock some of them where you live? Well the search is over thanks to this great site we just found. click here.

Devoted collector’s ‘ultimate train set’ set to fetch £30,000 at auction

Clifford Patrick, of Surrey, created the set in his attic and was a collector of Hornby O-Gauge model railways until his death in 2003. The entire collection is to be auctioned separately by his family. Duncan Chilcott, of the auctioneers Chilcotts in Tiverton, Devon, said that it was one of the finest and most impressive prewar model train sets.

“The layout included sidings, tunnels and sections of countryside, and among all this were Dinky model cars, taxis and trucks, figures of railway workers and passengers, and sheep and horses, also in good condition. It all looked very realistic, just as Frank Hornby had intended,” he added.

Among the most coveted items are the Folkestone Flyer (likely to fetch £1,000 to £1,500) and the Cornish Riviera Express (£500 to £800) electric passenger train sets. A further 12 locomotives could be sold for up to £400 each.

Dr Patrick’s other models include flying boats, jet airliners, rare classic and sports cars, and groups of stations and platforms.

The sale of 345 lots will be on October 23.

Rod Stewart is a model railway enthusiast

His secret is a spectacular model railway set. Laid out at his mansion in Beverley Hills, it is a perfect 1:87 scale model of New York’s Grand Central Station in the 1940s.

It comprises 100 ft of track, scores of period locomotives and carriages with a backdrop of skyscrapers, streets, railway buildings and hundreds of tiny passengers.

The 62-year-old rock 'n’ railer, as he may now become known, has long craved recognition for his private hobby. He said several years ago that such an honour would “mean more to me than the cover of Rolling Stone”.

He explained: “I’m a great model railway enthusiast and I’m building a huge layout over there in California so that takes up a little bit of time and football takes up a little bit of time.”

It is just as well that Stewart, whose previous blonde model lovers have included Kelly Emberg and Rachel Hunter (his second wife), has sold 250 million records and had 62 hit singles. Recreating Grand Central Station is not child’s play.

The largest train station in the world, it has 44 platforms, 67 tracks, a cavernous concourse with clock faces made from opal and a clock on the front of the station that is the largest example of Tiffany glass in the world. Find out more here

TRAIN TRADER (Southern Hemisphere)

These guys are the southern hemisphere's leading retailer of new and pre-owned electric model trains, accessories and fixtures, and Sydney's largest specialist model train shop and repairer. They stock an extensive range of quality pre-owned model locomotives and rolling stock, and specialize in those hard-to-get collectors items. You will find excellent examples from the following manufacturers:

Marklin, Marklin mini-club, TRIX, Hornby, Wren Railways, Hornby Dublo, LGB, Lima, Rivarossi, Roco, and Fleischmann. Contact them here

32nd Annual Dayton Train Show

This is one of the biggest and best in the state of Ohio with thousands of square feet featuring the largest exhibition of operating train layouts in the area, vendor tables and trains for the kids to ride.

The show, presented by National Model Railroad Association, features over 300 tables that will showcase all the new, antique and collectible trains and accessories needed to start or expand a model train hobby.

Continuous “how-to” clinics, door prizes and a layout raffle round out the show. Kids can look for the “Thomas the Tank Engine” display and enter to win a “Thomas” train set.

Hours are Saturday, November 3 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m and Sunday, November 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission is $5, good both days of the show. Children under 12 are admitted free. Parking is free. For more information on this event go here

New Model Train Videos Posted

To watch the videos below simply click the Play button under the picture.

Depending on your connection speed, they may not play smoothly. If that happens click the Play button again (this will pause it) and wait a few minutes to let the video stream. Then click Play and it should be fine. Special thanks to the many people who helped compile these videos.

Enjoy!

Reedsvill Railroad with Johnny Cash

Japanese train model "ENODEN".

Narrow gauge model exhibition

Model railway exhibition in the "smalspoormuseum Valkenburgse meer", a narrow gauge railway museum in the Netherlands.

Drummer Creek Garden Railroad Video

Learn about the Greatest Hobby in the World! Large Scale Model Railroading

Aztec Trains Model Railroad Track Cleaner

John Claudino shows some of his model railroad track cleaning cars that he designed and
manufactures. His track cleaning cars can be used on HO and N Scale model railroads.

Nice layout at a model railroad show (Click to play)

Update on next edition and a free gift for you

Just a quick note to let you know that due
to health reasons, Albert has still been
unable to finish the new edition.

We're very sorry about this and will let you
know if and when it is completed.

You can however get a great guide
called "How to operate and build a model
railroad" for free by clicking here:

http://www.modeltrainreport.com/

Thanks for your understanding,

Tech support

Model Railroader magazine's "Layout in a Week" project.

During the week of February 6, 2006, watch the MR staff build the Black River Junction – a '50s-era HO scale model railroad. In addition to watching the construction process, be sure to check the Weblog for progress updates and to see close-up photos of some of the work. The Black River Junction series will be featured beginning in the January 2007 issue of MR. Enjoy the show!

Click Here For The Model Train Layout Project

Posted by Albert Williamson

Henri Collin's Model Diesel Locomotive!

This beauty is powered by a Kubota 2 cylinder diesel engine.

You can see the locomotive in action in the Turnhout (Belgium) city park. Click here for his hompage for more pics and details.

India train derails, killing 100

One hundred people have been killed after a passenger train derailed in floods in southern India, railway officials say.

Rescue workers have been searching for people trapped in carriages amid fears the death toll could rise further.

Initial reports suggest an irrigation tank burst, causing a bridge to collapse, derailing seven carriages.

The crash occurred early on Saturday south of Hyderabad, the state capital of Andhra Pradesh.

Heavy rains have killed more than 100 people in south India this week.

Holidaymakers

The Delta Express crashed near the town of Veligonda in Nalgonda district, about 30km (18 miles) south of Hyderabad.

Seven of the 14 coaches and the engine of the train were derailed and at least three coaches fell into the flood waters.

Divers from the air force and navy used blow torches to cut through the wreckage to free the scores of people still feared trapped. Some survivors were clinging to luggage racks and ceiling fans.

India's state-run railway system carries more than 13m passengers a day.

It has one of the world's largest rail networks, but also a poor safety record.

About 300 rail accidents are reported every year, resulting in a high number of casualties.

Source: Train News

Wiring your model railroad track

To read this great article with pictures click here
-albert williamson


Model railroader Pam Lindsey show how to wire track.

Materials:

HO-scale transformer
Power rail joiners
Rail nippers
Wire strippers
Flathead screwdriver
Eraser-type track-cleaning tool
Power drill, with 1" and 1/4" bits
8" two-part wire
Safety glasses
Soldering iron and solder

1. Position a transformer at any corner of your layout, in a spot where you don't plan to build anything. Be sure it's close to the track but not close enough to interfere with the operation of the train. The transformer is positioned close to the track to minimize exposed wires. It's important to make sure there's enough room between the power pack and the track so that the power-supply cord doesn't interfere with the train's smooth operation.

2. Drill two holes with a 1/4" bit -- on one side of the track, next to the rail, and between the ties, directly across from the transformer box. Drill through the cork rail bed, the insulation board and the plywood to create a hole so the wires can be run under the board and out of sight.

3. Using a hobby knife, cut a 2" by 2" square from the insulation board down to the plywood, approximately 2" behind the transformer. Remove and discard the square of insulation.

4. Using a 1" bit, drill two holes side by side and overlapping through the plywood in the area exposed when the 2" by 2" piece of insulation was removed (figure A). The hole must be large enough to accommodate the power-supply cord so it can be dropped through the hole and under the table.

5. Take approximately 8" of flexible two-part wire, and pull the wires apart. Do not remove the plastic covering on the wires. Feed one wire through one of the holes drilled beside the track in step 2, keeping approximately 1 1/2" of wire above the table. Repeat with the second wire on the other side of the track (figure B).

6. Use wire strippers to remove approximately 1/2" of the plastic coating at the end of each of the wires that remain above the table. With a soldering iron and solder, touch the side of the rail approximately two railroad ties away from the spot where the wire comes up through the holes in the table (figure C), and leave a small drop of solder on the side of the rail. Solder on the outside of the rail, and don't leave solder on the top of the rail, as it would make the train derail.

7. Touch the solder and the soldering iron to the stripped end of each wire, leaving a small drop of solder on each wire. Turn the wire horizontal with the rail, and join the wire and the rail (figure D) with the soldering iron, making sure the wire is even with the rail. Repeat the process on the other side of the rail, using the second stripped wire.

8. Now you'll need to attach the other ends of the wires to the back of the transformer box. Bring the wires from under the table through the hole you created in it. Use wire strippers to remove approximately 1/2" of the plastic covering from the end of each wire. Twist the individual strands from each exposed wire (figure E) over each other. Bend the end of each wire to create a small hook, which will make it easier to place the wire on the back of the transformer. Position each hook so it's facing the direction in which the screw rotates when tightened. With wire wrapped around each screw, under the head, tighten the screws (figure F) at the spot marked "variable DC." Transformers vary greatly, so make sure to read the directions in the owner's manual.

9. Run the power-supply cord from the back of the transformer through the hole in the table (figure G). Before plugging in the power supply, use an eraser-type track cleaner to remove any solder or particles that may have gotten on the track . Brush the track cleaner back and forth along the track a few times, making sure to follow the rails.

10. Plug the power supply into a standard household outlet, and test the track with the first run of your engine (figure H).

Adding Ballast To Your Track For Realism

I've posted a few tips both by myself and aticles by others over time. Yet this one by Kent McBee is nice and simple. Making your model trains realistic is half the fun! Enjoy this article.
-Albert Williamson (ultimateguidetomodeltrains.com)

Materials:

HO-scale ballast
12 ounce plastic or StyrofoamB. cup
Plastic spoon
Small spray bottle
White glue
Water
Liquid detergent
Small school paintbrush
1" paintbrush

1. Fill a spray bottle with water and two drops of liquid detergent, and shake well. Remove the cap from a bottle of glue. Pour half the glue into a resealable container such as a clean margarine tub, cover, and set aside. Refill the half-empty glue bottle with water and two drops of liquid detergent, replace the closed cap, and shake until mixed. This is "ballast mix" glue. Set the mixture aside.

2. Pour ballast into the plastic cup. Using a plastic spoon, carefully apply ballast to the track between the rails and along both sides of the track, generously covering everything but the rails.

3. Shape the ballast to the contours of the cork roadbed with the paintbrushes, gently brushing ballast between the ties and covering the entire roadbed (figure S). Shape the ballast on both sides of the track, covering the entire roadbed.

4. Use a spray bottle to spritz the ballast with the water/detergent mixture. Don't spray the ballast directly: instead, spritz to create a rain-shower effect. This will help the glue mixture soak in.

5. Run a generous bead of ballast-mix glue down the center of the track, between the rails. Then squeeze the glue mixture onto the ballast on both sides of the track. Depending on the amount of ballast you've used, you may need to repeat this procedure to glue all the ballast in place. Allow the glue mixture to dry for at least 12 hours before repeating.

6. After the ballast is dry, run a fingernail along the inside of the track to remove any ballast that may have gotten stuck there. Make certain the top of the rails is free of ballast.

7. Model railroaders recommend purchasing an engine and the largest car you plan to run on the track before building the layout. Once you have these cars, determine whether you can run them on your layout without derailing them.

Train sounds!

Steam and Diesel. Downloadable free train sounds here.

Posted by albert williamson

Multiple levels always adds a nice extra dimension to a model railroad. If you're designing a new layout, why not consider it?

Designing a Model Train Layout

Planning and design are very important in model trains. After all, once the track is in place, the train must run on it! It sounds obvious, yet it is an area many people don't spend enough time on and later regret. Get it right by following these simple tips!

-Albert williamson


It's wise to plan your layout even before laying the track. Using a black marker, begin by drawing the main components of the layout on the insulation board (figure I). There's no need to create elaborate renderings -- just sketch the location of mountains, lakes, rivers, buildings, roads and other major components (figure J). Be creative but not too ambitious: you'll have to build or buy everything you add to the layout.

Our layout was designed to have a 1950s theme and includes a downtown with numerous buildings, a mountain and quarry, a tunnel, a lake, a bridge, two industrial structures and a home. It features two turnouts and two spurs. source

How to assemble a freight car for your model train set

Posted by Albert Williamson



Model railroader Kent McBee explain how to assemble a freight car, using a readily available shake-the-box kit. To read this nice list of steps, with pictures click here


Materials:

Shake-the-box freight-car kit
Plastic modelers' glue with extended needle tip
Hobby knife
6" x 6" x 1" scrap piece of wood
Flathead screwdriver

1. Using a hobby knife and a scrap piece of wood, begin by cutting the small plastic washers off the sprue, or plastic framework (figure H). Carefully trim each piece as closely as possible to create a smooth, finished piece. Cut and trim pieces as needed to construct the model. This will eliminate misplacing small pieces you will need later.

2. Remove the rectangular metal weights, which come in the plastic equipment bag found with the kit. Place them on the bottom of the freight car's undercarriage ( figure I), over the small posts found at either end of the undercarriage. Carefully put modelers' glue on the peg. Take one of the washers cut from the sprue, and place it over the metal weight and onto the peg to hold the weight in place ( figure J). Perform this step at both ends of the undercarriage.

3. After the washers have dried in place, snap the undercarriage onto the freight car. You won't need to use glue: the two pieces will fit tightly together without it.

4. Following the kit's instructions, snap the detail pieces into place. Closely follow directions, as some pieces must be glued and others will be snapped into place. Use glue sparingly for a clean, realistic finish.

5. Remove the two horn-hooked couplers and screws from the equipment bag (figure K). Place the coupler in position on the bottom end of the freight car, making sure the horn is in the down (toward the track) position (figure L). Put the coupler on the peg found underneath and at the end of the car, and place the cover plate over the coupler. Screw the cover plate in place with a flathead screwdriver (figure M). Don't glue this piece, as that would interfere with the movement of the coupler, and don't overtighten the screw. Once the screw is in place, check the coupler for free movement.

6. Trucks are what model railroaders call the wheels on the cars. Complete the trucks by carefully snapping the sets of wheels into the frame (figure N). Check to make sure the wheels rotate freely. Place the completed truck on the bottom of the freight car, and screw it into place. The screw should be tightened to the point where it is recessed but not overtightened (figure O). Make sure the truck has free movement in all directions so the car can move smoothly around corners. Repeat the process at the other end of the railcar.

Expert Tips and Finishing Touches

Keep the track free of hair and dirt particles that might get into the engine. Track-cleaning supplies may be purchased at any hobby shop that sells model railroads.

Details and customization, including building scenes from scratch, make a layout truly unique (figure P). Create scenes around the layout that mirror real life. The layout will feel and look more authentic.

Start with a hand-drawn layout (figure Q), and build mountains, tunnels, lakes, towns, industrial parks, quarries, roads, bridges, railroad tracks, unique scenes and anything else you wish to include. Put on your conductor's cap, start the engine and have fun.

Designing the Town for your model railroad

Model railroader Jim Davis offer tips on designing a believable town plan. It's important to think about the details to really capture the time period as well as the realistic look you are after. The best model railroads when viewed make you feel you are looking a at a real small town (at least they have that effect on me!).

To read more about thinking about the details etc, be sure to read my model train secrets book, "The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains" here.
-Albert Williamson.


To read this article with pictures click here
Choose buildings and structures that match the era you've selected for your layout.

If you need ideas, visit a hobby shop to view the many kits available. The variety is almost endless.

As you build kits for your layout, be creative and personalize your structures. It's easy, for example, to create a vine growing down the side of a building. Apply white glue in a vining pattern down the side of the building and use tweezers to apply landscaping material to the glue (figure Q).

Create a downtown, manufacturing areas and neighborhoods as you like, keeping in mind realism and authenticity. Detail is the key to a believable layout (figure R).

If you like, you can keep your town up all night by using working miniature lighting throughout the layout (figure S).

Building Roads for your model train set

Model railroader Kent McBee explains how to make authentic-looking roadways. This is a different method than what I discuss in my book "The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains". For most people though, this method may be easier.

-Albert Williamson


To read this article with pictures click here
Materials:

Two sheets of black posterboard
Six to eight scraps of cork roadbed
White glue
Pencil
Ruler with HO scale or a standard ruler
Scissors
Hobby knife
One package 1/16" yellow auto pinstriping
One package 1/16" white auto pinstriping

1. If you don't have a HO-scale ruler, a standard ruler will work. To convert a standard ruler to HO, or 1/87th, scale, remember that 1/8" on a standard ruler approximates 1' in HO scale. Cut the posterboard roadways 24' wide in HO scale (3" on a standard ruler).

2. Where the road crosses the railroad track, use leftover cork rail bed to build up the ramp of the roadway to the track (figure J). Trim the pieces to size, and secure them to the insulation board with white glue.

3. Next, prepare the roadway to fit the track. If you're placing a roadway to cross the track at a curve, you must curve the edge of the road to match the curve in the track. To do so, place the edge of the roadway over the rail of the track you're trying the match, and use your finger to score or crease the posterboard along the curve of the track (figure K). Use this guide to cut a perfectly matched curve in the road.

4. Cut the roadway to the correct length. Generously cover the insulation board and cork roadbed with white glue and press the road in place. Place something relatively heavy, such as a small book, on the road to keep it in place while the glue dries.

5. After laying roadway on both sides of the track, you need to cover the space between the rails to give the layout an authentic look. Begin with a section of posterboard road cut to the proper width, and line it up with the roads on either side of the track. Place the piece of roadway on top of the rails, and using the creasing technique described in step 3, crease the posterboard over both rails to create a roadway filler for the section of the track between the rails (figure L). Cut out the roadway to fit between the rails, making certain to cut on the inside of the creases so the roadway fits nicely but doesn't interfere with the movement of the train. Use white glue to secure the piece between the rails (figure M).

6. Lay and glue the rest of the roadway onto the insulation board, according to your drawing. When you come to a curve in the road, it's easier to use straight pieces of posterboard to simulate a curve than to cut a curve and maintain the correct road width. As the road begins to curve, place the next piece of road under the already-laid pieces. Use a pencil to mark where the roadways meet. Cut a clean edge at the marked-off section with scissors, and you'll have a perfectly matched road (figure N). Glue the sections in place with white glue.

7. Use auto pinstripes, available at auto-parts stores, to make the roads look more realistic (figure O). Using a ruler and a pencil, measure and mark the middle of the road in at least two places. Take the ruler, and draw a straight line connecting the marks. You'll put down the white pinstripe along this line (figure P). Think of the roadways you travel every day, and put in crosswalks, school zones, railroad crossings, no-passing zones and other street markings where appropriate. Authenticity is the goal.

Building an authentic model train station step by step

Model railroader Bud German show us how to build an authentic-looking train station. Many so called "snap together" model buildings are anything but simple. These tips should help you.

Click Here for the article with pictures.

-Albert Williamson, author of
Ultimateguidetomodeltrains.com




Materials:

Prepainted snap-together depot model kit
Liquid plastic cement
Small detail paintbrush
Rail nippers
Tweezers
India ink
Rubbing alcohol
Small container with lid -- a clean baby-food jar is ideal

1. Open the model depot kit and thoroughly read the instructions. With rail nippers, carefully remove the kit pieces from the sprue, the plastic framework that holds them together (figure A). Clip as close as possible to each model piece.

2. You'll use liquid cement and a detail paintbrush to join the pieces of the depot. As you follow the directions for building the model, spread liquid cement on the joints of both pieces you're connecting.

3. Whenever you create a corner during construction, you need to "affix" it. To do so, load the detail brush with liquid cement, and touch inside the top of the corner with the brush (figure B). Liquid cement will run down the inside of the joint and "affix" the corner.

4. Use the same technique when putting windows in place. Position the window in the frame, place the clear-plastic piece, representing the glass, on the inside of the window, and lay the section flat on your work surface. Using a paintbrush loaded with liquid cement, touch each corner of the window (figure C). The cement will run around the joint between the frame and the window and secure the "glass" at the same time. This technique prevents liquid cement from smearing onto the glass and creating foggy windows. After the window is dry, position the frame in place on the structure. Use the back of a hobby knife to ensure that the pieces are tightly in place (figure D).

5. Complete the depot roof and set it aside.

6. Before putting on the roof, you'll need to put the detail pieces in place (figure E). Some of them are located at your discretion; others, such as the benches, have assigned locations. Follow the kit instructions.

7. To glue the roof in place, set it on top of the completed depot without applying any liquid cement. Holding the two pieces together, turn the entire structure upside down, and glue the pieces together from the inside (figure F). Run a paintbrush loaded with liquid cement along the joint between the roof and the depot.

8. Our model depot has decorative braces between the roof and the outside of the building. If yours is similar, snap the decorative pieces into place, using tweezers (figure G), and glue them on from the inside of the model.

9. Make your depot look authentic by giving it a weathered appearance. Create a weathering mixture by combining 8 to 10 drops of India ink and 1 ounce of alcohol in a clean baby-food jar. Replace the lid, and gently shake until mixed. Generously spread the mixture on all parts of the depot, using a clean paintbrush (figure H). Spread the mixture over the structure completely (figure I) until you achieve the desired look. The mixture may look a little dark in some places, but it will dry slightly lighter.

Adding a Bridge to your model railroad!

This great model train articel with Jay Caplan explains how to add a bridge to a layout. To read it with pictures, click here.

Materials:

9" plate-girder bridge with built-in track
Four rail joiners
Hobby knife
Rail nippers
Hobby saw
Black marker

1. Place the bridge on the top of the track precisely where you want it to be located. Center the bridge at the point where the lake crosses under the track, placing it so the ends of the bridge and the lake shore are equidistant on each side (figure K).

2. Hold the bridge in place. Mark the insulation board where the ends of the bridge meet the track (figure L). The marks indicate where the regular track must be removed and the bridge track put in place. Set the bridge aside.

3. Using rail nippers, cut the track on both rails at the exact location where you marked the ends of the bridge (figure M). Rail nippers can be used to create ends of two different types. One side of the nippers cuts a beveled edge; the other side, a straight edge. Use the straight side of the nippers to cut straight edges so the joint will be tight. Cut all four rails, and remove the section of track to make way for the bridge track. Leave the roadbed in place. If you have trouble removing the glued-down track from the roadbed, carefully insert a hobby saw between the track and the roadbed and cut off the track (figure N). Don't throw the track away: you may use it later.

4. Use a hobby saw to remove the roadbed at both ends, cutting through it approximately 3/4" in from the end of the track toward the lake (figure O). It's important to leave 3/4" of roadbed, which will support the end of the bridge once it's connected to the rest of the track. Remove the cut section of roadbed from the insulation board to create an open space under the bridge.

5. Now remove the lake. Using a hobby knife, cut into the insulation board, following the lines drawn previously for the lake. Remove the lake-shaped piece of insulation board (figure P), and save it for future construction.

6. To join the bridge to the track, remove the small plastic connection between the rail and the tie (figure Q). Use rail nippers to clip the tiny piece holding the rail to the tie, but don't remove the tie. After removing the connection, you'll use a rail joiner to make a clean connection between the bridge and the track rails.

7. To connect the bridge track to the track on the roadbed, insert a rail joiner at each rail at both ends of the bridge. Join the bridge to the roadbed track at one end of the lake, gently working the rail joiner onto the track rail. To complete the circuit, fit the other end of the bridge to the track in the same manner. Gently lift the track to create enough space to angle the bridge rail joiners onto the rail (figure R). This completes the circuit: the train can now run across the bridge.

Getting started right in model trains!

Here's the next one in our series of How To Model Train articles. Another great one with pictures. To read it with pictures click here.

Model railroading has been popular for almost half a century. With today's readily available modern materials, some say the hobby is in its golden age. Read on to find out how to get started right!
-Albert.




Building a Base Table for Your Layout


A sturdy walk-around base table is the best foundation you can give a model-railroad layout. Model railroaders Dave and Alex Caplan explain the basics.

Materials:

10 pieces 1" x 3" x 8' pine, #2 grade
Three pieces 1" x 2" x 8' pine, #1 grade
Four pieces 1" x 3" x 6' pine, #1 grade
Two pieces 1" x 4" x 10' pine, #1 grade
Two pieces 1" x 4" x 6' pine, #1 grade (for end sides of table)
1/4" x 4' x 8' sheet of plywood
#6-size 1 1/4" Phillips-head screws
Power drill
Power screwdriver or combination drill/screwdriver
Hand saw or power saw
Paint or stain

1.

The outer dimensions of this table will be 8' long by 4' wide. Begin by selecting two 1" by 3" by 8' pieces of #2-grade pine for the 8' outer edges. Next, select four 1" by 3" by 8' pieces of #2-grade pine for outer frame width and inner support pieces. These four 8' lengths should be cut into seven 46 1/2 " pieces -- for the five inner pieces and the two outer (leaving one extra length). Drill holes in the ends of the 8' lengths and attach a 46 1/2" piece to each end, screwing it into place. Working from the outside in, screw a 46 1/2" piece 17" from the end; repeat for other end. Screw another 46 1/2" length into place 17" from the last one, and repeat for other end. Finally, the two center pieces -- which will provide the greatest support -- should be measured and screwed into place at approximately 11 3/8" from the most recently placed two pieces.

Tip: When cutting the inner cross supports, the 17" pieces can range from 17" to 17 1/4". Measure and cut pieces accordingly. A total of six 17" cross supports and three 11 3/8" cross supports are needed. Screw these cross supports in place to support the 46 1/2" lengths (figure A). Countersink screw holes for a smooth, finished look.

2. Cut four pieces of 1" by 3" by 6' #1-grade pine to eight 36" pieces to create the legs. The legs are built by placing two pieces of cut pine perpendicular at the edges (figure B), in an L shape. Secure the boards with wood screws approximately 6" apart. Countersink the screws, and fill with wood putty, then sand the legs to a smooth finish. The legs are now ready to be stained or painted, as you like.

3. Attach the legs inside the corners with five 1 1/4" screws, securing the legs on the 4' and 8' sides. Make sure the tops of the legs are flush with the top edge of the frame so the plywood will lie flat on the frame. Screw each of the four legs to the base table framework at the four corners. Attach cross supports of 1" by 2" by 93" pine from the inside bottom of the 8' frame to the side of the leg approximately 18" above the floor with one 1 1/4" screw on each end. Follow these steps on both sides of the table. Attach cross supports of 1" by 2" by 45" pine from the inside bottom of the 4' frame to the other side of the leg approximately 18" from the floor. This will give the table stability and strength. Measure the exact length of the 8' side of the table, and cut a piece of 1" by 4" by 10' pine to the measurement. Repeat for the 4' side of the table. Finish the table by attaching the cut pieces of 1" by 4" by 10' pine with 1 1/4" screws. If you want a smooth finish for painting or staining, countersink the holes, and fill with wood plugs or wood putty. Paint or stain the outer frame to match the legs.

4. Place a 4' by 8' by 1/4" sheet of plywood on the completed frame. Drill countersunk pilot holes around the outside edge of the plywood, making certain to drill into the frame (figure C). Secure the plywood to the frame with screws at approximately 10" intervals, countersinking the screws to create a smooth surface for the train.

Laying the Groundwork and Making a Track Plan

Proper preparation of your layout will facilitate smooth operation of the train. Model railroaders Bud German and Kent McBee explain proper preparation techniques.

Materials:

4' x 8' sheet of residential insulation foam board
Low-temperature glue gun and glue sticks
8 1/2" x 11" sheet of notebook paper
Black marker
Pencil
Straightedge or wooden yardstick
Power drill
Tape measure
Piece of switch track

1. Drill a hole large enough for a pencil to pass through 2" from one end of the straightedge or yardstick. Measuring from the inside edge of the hole, use a marker to mark spots at 18", 20" and 22". Drill holes at the marks large enough for the marker tip to pass through. (The measurements represent the most common radiuses used in model railroading. Radius is always measured from the center point of the lines, between the rails.) Set the straightedge or yardstick aside.

2. Place a 4' by 8' piece of StyrofoamB. insulation board on top of the plywood table, but don't secure it to the table. If you make a mistake, you'll be able to replace the inexpensive foam board without replacing the plywood. Draw a large oval on an 8 1/2" by 11" piece of notebook paper. To make the layout look more realistic, draw industrial spurs -- sections of track that extend off the main track to give rail access to industrial plants and loading areas (figure D) -- at each end of the oval. And in case you'd like to add to the layout in future, draw additional spurs at each end of the completed oval (figure E).

3. To transfer the hand-drawn layout to the foam board, you must find the focal point at each end of the table. Measure and mark 24" in from the 4' end of the table. Now measure in 24" from the 8' side of the table, and make a mark to intersect with the first mark. The spot at which the two points intersect is the focal point .

4. Place a pencil through the first hole drilled in the straightedge, and put the pencil on the focal point, holding it securely in place. Place a marker through the drilled hole at the 22" mark (figure F), and, using the straightedge as a compass, draw a half-circle with the marker (figure G). Repeat these steps at the other end of the table.

5. Use the straightedge and marker to connect the half-circles with straight lines to create a large oval on the foam board. The lines don't have to be precise, but the radius of the circle must be consistent so the train will track properly. Use the straightedge to extend the side lines past the edge of the half-circle at each end on opposite sides, as with the hand drawing.

6. Place a piece of switch track at every point where the track splits -- where one line completes the oval and another creates a spur. Use a marker to mark the center line of all pieces of track (figure H).

7. Moving about 9" down the track, toward the center of the straight side lines, use the piece of switch track to mark the site of the industrial spurs. Using the piece of switch track as a guide (figure I), draw the spur lines with a black marker. Precision isn't vital -- just draw the line in a tighter radius into the oval.

8. Use a low-temperature glue gun to apply a generous bead of glue around the outside edge of the table. Press the foam board firmly to the plywood, and give the glue a minute to set up.

Laying the Roadbed

Laying a roadbed correctly is vital for the smooth operation of your train. Model railroader Jim Davis explain how.

Materials:

10 pieces 36" HO-scale cork roadbed
Hobby saw
Hobby knife
Low-temperature glue gun and glue sticks

1. Cork roadbed is scored and breaks readily. Bend and split a 36" piece of roadbed in half lengthwise to create two thinner pieces (figure J). The center split will create two opposing beveled edges, which, when turned over, create the elevated edges of a roadbed (figure K). By placing the pieces side by side, with the beveled edges out, you can create the roadbed needed for an HO-scale train and have a perfect center line with which to line up the track.

2. It's important to make the roadbed as flat and smooth as possible. Make sure it doesn't begin or end at a joint -- for example, at the switches or where two tracks come together (figure L). Always stagger the ends of the roadbed halves so the joints don't run across the entire roadbed.

3. To hold the roadbed in place, squeeze a bead of glue from a low-temperature glue gun along the center line drawn on the foam board. Secure half of the roadbed carefully along that line. Continue along the curved lines previously drawn, and glue the roadbed on both sides of the center line until you've completed all the lines.

4. After you've laid the roadbed down the spur and around the curve of the oval, you will have created a gap at the V, or switch location. The space must be filled with roadbed. Begin by placing a piece of roadbed over the gap at the switch (figure M). Make certain to follow the curve. Using a hobby saw, score the roadbed using the straight edge of the spur roadbed as a guide. After beginning the cut, move the roadbed piece to a convenient spot to complete the cut with a hobby knife. The resulting piece will fill the gap perfectly (figure N). Glue the piece in place.

5. Complete the entire oval, the spurs and the sidings, using these techniques ( figure O).

Laying Track


Once you begin laying track, the layout begins to look more like a railroad. Model railroader Jim Davis describes the process.

Materials:

10 pieces 36" HO-scale flex track
Four HO-scale switches
One package rail joiners
Rail nippers
Low-temperature glue gun and glue sticks
Push pins

1. Take a rail joiner from the package (figure P) and break off one section. Insert the rail joiner into the end of the flex track (figure Q). Rail joiners keep the rails in line and carry the electrical current needed to power the engine.

2. If there is not enough exposed rail at the end of the track to insert the rail joiner, take rail nippers and loosen the last tie on the end of the flex track. Using your fingers, carefully remove the loosened tie (figure R) to expose more rail to be connected with a rail joiner. Set aside the removed ties.

3. Insert rail joiners, and join the flex track with the switch track. Place the switch on the roadbed at the previously marked location (figure S), and center the flex track over the roadbed's center line.

4. Using a glue gun, tack the switch at the marked location and glue the flex track in place, making sure to center the track over the center line in the roadbed, paying particular attention to centering the track at the curves. Remember to prepare each length of track by removing the last tie at each end. If you don't have an extra pair of hands to help you hold the track in place while the glue dries, use push pins to secure the track to the roadbed while the glue sets up.

5. As the track begins to curve, one rail extends further than the other because of the curve. Using rail nippers (figure T), even the rails before connecting the next piece of track and gluing it down. Continue until the entire track is laid.

6. As you finish laying the track, you'll see gaps at the ties where you've joined rails (figure U). Take the ties you previously removed from each end of the flex track, and slide them under the rails to complete the line.

Build a Train Shed for Your Passenger Terminal

On page 60 in the October 2005 issue of CLASSIC TOY TRAINS, Bill Hildebrand explained how to build a large terminal building for your O gauge layout. But the actual building is only part of a terminal complex. Whether it’s a terminal (with stub tracks ending next to it), or a station (with through tracks beside it), there’s almost always a train shed connected to the terminal building to shelter passengers.

As with terminal buildings, there are few commercial train sheds on the market. However, the materials and construction techniques described in Bill's great article will help you to construct a train shed for your particular layout space and configuration.

Build a Train Shed for Your Passenger Terminal- CLICK HERE For the article

Creating Landscape step by step with pictures

Here's another great article, to see the pictures click HERE

Model railroader Pamela Lindsey demonstrate how to create a realistic landscape.

Materials:

One package plastic tree forms
Assortment of colored foam tree foliage
Small bunch of green dried flowers
Florists' wire
Tube of all-purpose white caulk
Tube of plastic modeler's glue
Brown acrylic paint
Small detail paintbrush

1. Generously spread plastic modelers' glue on a few branches of a tree form. Press a small cluster of colored foam tree foliage onto the glue (figure A). Cover the other branches in the same manner, making sure to cover both sides of the tree. You do not have to cover every branch, as the goal is a tree that looks realistic -- not perfect. Fill in with darker foliage to give the tree depth and realism.

2. Another way to create a tree is to use foliage available from a local craft store. Separate the individual stems of the foliage from the main stem, and group the pieces together. Carefully wrap the stems together with florists' wire.

3. Using all-purpose white caulk, cover the wire and stems up to the base of the foliage (figure B). After the caulk dries thoroughly, paint the newly created tree trunk with brown acrylic paint. Snip off the bottom end of the trunk to create a clean base, and the tree is ready to be placed in the layout.

Lay Down Grass and Gravel

Model railroaders Pamela Lindsey and Kent McBee explain how to landscape easily and effectively.

Materials:

Assortment of colored foam tree foliage
Assortment of groundcovers
Coarse turf
Ballast
Pencil
White glue
1" paintbrush
Plastic shaker jugs

1. Pull off small bushlike clumps of the same kind of foliage used to create the trees, and secure them with white glue (figure C). Place the foliage in a casual, creative way, keeping in mind where foliage grows naturally. You can put foliage almost anywhere, as white glue will securely hold this porous material.

2. Spread white glue over the surface to be covered, using a paintbrush dipped in water. Lightly shake groundcover from a sprinkle container over the wet glue (figure D). Sprinkle more than one color and random coarse turf for a truly realistic touch. Continue to cover the upper surfaces of the mountain where dirt and grass would naturally appear. Be creative.

3. To insert trees into the mountain, poke holes into the firmly dried plaster cloth with a sharpened pencil (figure E). Put a drop of glue in each hole, and insert a tree. This step is only necessary where trees are applied to plaster cloth. Trees may be readily pushed into the insulation foam used for the base layout.

4. Step back from time to time and look at the overall effect of the landscape so you can determine what's needed. Landscaping is almost foolproof because you can always cover up any mistakes and start again.

5. To complete the application of groundcover, use white glue and a paintbrush and spread glue in workable sections on the layout. Sprinkle groundcover, using more than one color. Sometimes it is easier to apply the material to large areas with your fingers. Place shrubs and rough turf in random patterns to create a realistic landscape.

6. To place gravel in appropriate places, spread white glue around the markings for the buildings on the insulation board. Make sure to cover the outline of a building in case the structure's size has been misjudged (figure F). This will ensure a neat fit between the gravel and the edge of the building so no insulation board shows. Use fine ballast to simulate gravel, and cover the glued area.

7. Use a pencil to mark the location of a dirt road (figure G). Use white glue and a paintbrush dipped in water to spread glue within the penciled lines. Shake a layer of dirt-colored groundcover over the glue to create the road. Use your fingers to move the excess groundcover around, overlapping the groundcover with other landscaping so the insulation board won't show. Use a darker ground cover to simulate tire tracks down the dirt road.

8. Remember to finish the outside edges of the layout. Repeat the gluing and groundcover-application process along the edge, and add shrubbery to create a realistic layout. Strategically place clumps of colored foam foliage around the layout to cover joints, holes or bare places.

Ballast: How to lay rock so your model trains will roll

Like a fine paint job on a locomotive, ballast is the finish coat on your track. It covers the many blemishes of roadbed construction, such as joints, shims, screws, and wire holes. More importantly, if done properly ballast adds a lot of polish to a layout.

Ballasting is usually the last finish work I do on any given section of the railroad. I like to at least add the basic scenery adjacent to the track to be ballasted, as there’s nothing worse than dropping a glob of white scenery plaster or paint on track once it’s ballasted. My layout happens to be HO scale, but these ideas apply regardless of scale.

Read this great article by Paul J. Dolkos HERE

Creating Lakes step by step with pictures

This is the 2nd article in our series. Enjoy!
Albert.

To see the pictures click here (its the bottom half of the page)



Creating a Lake

Model railroader Dave Caplan explains how to create realistic-looking lakes.

Materials:

Plaster cloth
Shoe-box-size container that will hold water
Water
Acrylic paints in dark greens and blues
Sand-colored spray paint
8 ounces clear liquid polyurethane epoxy
White glue
Modelers' grass
Modelers' earth
Foliage in various shapes and textures
Duct tape
Scrap piece of Styrofoam board
Hobby knife
1" paintbrush

1. The space for the lake was cut out when the bridge was installed. If you haven't yet removed it, use a hobby knife to cut into the insulation board along the lines drawn to mark the lake, and remove the Styrofoam down to the plywood. If the bridge is already in place, remove it and set it aside. Contour the edge of the lake with the hobby knife to create a shoreline. This will add realistic-looking detail (figure I).

2. Use leftover pieces of Styrofoam and a glue gun to create an island in the middle of the lake (figure J). Be as creative as you like (figure K).

3. Spread moistened plaster cloth, prepared as you did for the mountain, over the edge of the lake (figure L) to create a rugged shoreline. Place plaster cloth over the island, using a paintbrush dipped in water to smooth out the edges and eliminate air bubbles. Cover the bottom and sides of the lake, including the slopes up to the base of the track (figure M). Allow the lake to dry overnight.

4. Apply a light coat of sand-colored spray paint to the island and the shoreline of the lake (figure N).

5. Use a variety of blue and green acrylic paints to create realistic-looking water (figure O). Apply green tones to the shallow shoreline area of the lake and deeper blue tones in the deeper center of the lake (figure P). Use a paintbrush to blend the paints. Allow the colors to dry thoroughly.

6. Once the lake dries, add some landscaping. Use white glue to create a path along the lakeshore. Sprinkle modelers' earth on the path to cover the glue completely. Repeat the process with strips of grass created with white glue and modelers' grass sprinkled in place (figure Q). Decorate the island in the same manner. Using white glue, add clumps of shrubbery and trees.

7. Seal the opening at the edge of the lake -- the edge of the layout -- with duct tape and a scrap piece of Styrofoam (figure R) to prevent polyurethane (used in step 8) from running off the side of the layout.

8. Pour clear liquid polyurethane epoxy into the lakebed (figure S), and spread it around with a plastic spoon or knife to completely cover the area. The epoxy will dry clear so the colors previously painted will show through, creating a very realistic-looking lake (figure T).

Making Mountains step by step

From time to time a really excellent article surfaces in the world of model trains. This part one in a series of How To articles with pictures I'll be posting over the next little while.

Model mountains can be built in numerous ways -- from the old-fashioned newspaper method to casting them in molds. Unfortunately, using the newspaper method can create a fire hazard. Here's a great way to do it! Enjoy, Albert.

For all the pictures click here

Making a Mountain

Model railroader Jay Caplan explains how simple it is to build a mountain.

Materials:

2' x 4' piece of StyrofoamB. insulation board
Two 3" pieces of scrap foam board, purchased or found in packing material
Styrofoam packing "peanuts"
Two HO-scale portals
Low-temperature glue gun and glue sticks
One package plaster cloth
1" paintbrush
Scissors
Hobby saw
Shoe-box-size or larger container that will hold water
Water
Light earth-toned spray paint
Dirt-colored spray paint
Grass-colored spray paint
Black marker

1. Locate the entrance to and exit from the mountain on the layout. These spots mark the location of portals for the tunnel (figure A). The portals indicate where the tunnel begins and ends as the mountain is built around them. You won't glue the portals in place until the mountain is complete.


2. Use scraps of insulation board to build a support for the portals. The scraps can be any size or shape, as long as they fit the space designated for the mountain and don't interfere with the train's operation. Using a low-temperature glue gun, glue the pieces of insulation in place to begin building the mountain. Stagger the pieces to create a realistic, rugged-looking shape. Use a portal as a guide to gauge the space that must be left open for the train to clear the sides of the mountain. Use a hobby saw to cut blocks of insulation foam to fit the space allotted to the mountain (figure B). The mountain must be at least as tall as the top of the portal for the train to clear. Continue to glue and build up the front of the mountain until the front is complete.

3. Build the back of the mountain from 3" pieces of scrap Styrofoam packing material. Use a hobby knife to cut the pieces to fit the layout board and fit around the portals. Secure the pieces with a glue gun (figure C).

4. Put the top on the mountain to enclose the tunnel and create a base from which to build up the mountain. Clear the track of obstructions that might interfere with the movement of the train through the tunnel. Place a piece of Styrofoam insulation large enough to cover the entire mountain on top of the mountain's base. Use a hobby saw to remove unnecessary parts of the board until you get close to the outline of the mountain. Hold the top of the mountain in place, and use a black marker to trace the contour of the mountain's base up under the piece forming the top of the mountain (figure D). After marking the curve, turn the top over and cut along the marked line with a hobby saw, creating a perfect match with the base of the mountain. Glue the mountaintop in place.

5. Now build up the top of the mountain by gluing scraps of Styrofoam insulation as desired (figure E). Use pieces of various sizes to create contours, and use a hobby saw to cut contours into the mountain (figure F). Glue on packing peanuts to create boulders and rugged contours. Complete the mountaintop as desired.

6. Fill the shoebox-size container half full of water. Using scissors, cut a piece of plaster cloth about 4" long. Let it soak in the water for about 5 seconds (figure G). Drag the cloth strip along the side of the container to eliminate excess water. Place the wet plaster cloth over the Styrofoam sides of the mountain, molding the cloth to the mountain with your fingers. Dip a 1" paintbrush into the water, and brush the wet plaster cloth to eliminate bumps and air bubbles. Repeat the process until the entire mountain is covered. Let the mountain dry overnight.

7. Finish the mountain by spray-painting it with earth-toned paints. If the room is not well ventilated, wear a mask. Use a light earth tone for the base, applying the paint in light, sweeping motions. Use a darker color to create and color darker patches of rock and soil. Use green paint to simulate grass growing on flat surfaces. Later you'll add trees and shrubs to give the mountain a more believable look (figure H).

Can track be ballasted after it is installed?

By all means, for added realism, ballast should be added to your layout. But be forewarned - this is not a simple task. Several good brands of ballast are on the market today and are available at your local hobby dealer. Woodland Scenics makes a very good grade of ballast in various colors and in the proper size suitable for N-scale use (the wrong scale can look very strange, so be careful not to buy HO scale or larger ballast). Spread the ballast evenly between the ties of the track, both between the rails and outside the rails. Use a soft brush to move the ballast off the ties and to spread it evenly between them. Some brands of ballast have the binder (glue) already mixed in while others require a separate application of glue. In either case, use "wet" water to set the glue smoothly into the ballast without moving it. ("Wet" water is created by adding a few drops of liquid detergent to ordinary tap water.) The water, or water-and-glue mixture, should be dripped gently from an eyedropper and when dripped onto the dry ballast it should run into and around the tiny rocks rather than form in a ball on the surface. Do not disturb the ballast until the glue has completely dried. You might want to experiment on a siding until you feel comfortable ballasting the mainlines. After the glue has cured, examine your work and be certain that no ballast has piled up on the inside of the rails. Such a build-up will cause derailments.

Mountains Tip

An easy way to make bridges or mountains for model railroad tables, is to use Rappit plaster molding tape.

Just crumple some newspaper and form into a mountain.

Cut strips of plaster molding cloth and wet in water and form over the crumpled paper.

You can smooth over the wet cloth to make a finished moutain.

You can also use colored sand to give it texture.

Let dry and paint.

Career: Railroad Conductors

“All aboard!” Whether her train transports coal or people, the conductor is at the center of activity. She talks to dispatchers and engineers about track conditions, oversees porters and maids, and checks schedules. In short, she does whatever it takes to make sure that the trip goes smoothly.

Railroad conductors coordinate all activities of freight and passenger trains.

Did You Know?

• While many railroad conductors now hold degrees in railroad operations, it’s hard to get the job without plenty of experience as a rail yard worker.

Are You Ready To...?

• Take tickets
• Answer passenger questions about everything from the train’s speed to the location of the bathroom
• Handle complaints and resolve disputes
• Oversee the addition and removal of cars at each stop
• Supervise porters and maids
• Review schedules and shipping records
• Discuss track delays and alternative train routes with the engineer

It Helps to Be...

Interested in others. You’ll be working closely with engineers, dispatchers, crew, and railroad workers, but you’ll also be the railway’s main contact with the public -- you’ll have the chance to make a lasting, positive impression.

Make High School Count

• Build communication skills in English, speech, and drama.
• Take classes in electronics, shop, and computers.
• Do your best in all your classes and make sure you earn a diploma -- you’ll need it to qualify for rail work.

Did You Know?

• Since 9/11, security has become a new concern for railroad conductors, who on Amtrak have started random checks of passenger IDs.

Outlook

Government economists expect fewer jobs for conductors in 2012 than there were in 2002. Larger, faster, more fuel-efficient trains make it possible to move more freight and passengers with fewer runs.

Compensation

The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that the average yearly salary in 2003 for railroad conductors and yardmasters was $52,430.

Read More Railroad News Here

Tips for using LEDs with Model Trains

Using lights with your model trains is a great enhancement, not to mention loads of fun! When used as a locomotive headlight, the effect is quite good. The Big Hauler on the left has a Radio Shack 12v 60 mA Grain-Of-Wheat bulb running at its ratings. The Shay on the right has the stock Bachmann bulb that came on the early production Shays, later Shays have a much more wimpy standard yellow LED as a headlight. Read more about adding lights to your locos here

The LED is installed in place of the original lamp, but it has to face forward to project its beam. The LED leads are insulated with shrink tube and one lead is pressed into the original support. The support had to be drilled out just a little to accommodate one lead and its shrink tube. The other lead goes into the boiler just in front of the support. A dab of hot glue holds the LED in position. courtesy of George Schreyer

A Chinese woman stands near a model train from Canadian plane and train manufacturer Bombardier Inc during the Modern Railways 2005 exhibition in Beijing, China, Tuesday, July 5, 2005. In the last six months, orders for Bombardier in China have totaled US$1.1 billion. The total includes 40 trains capable of reaching a speed of 200 kph (125 mph). Deliveries will begin in July 2006 and be completed in December 2007. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

More from the exhibition in China.

A Chinese child examines models of Chinese trains on display at Modern Railways 2005 exhibition in Beijing, China, Tuesday, July 5, 2005. The Railway Ministry has said China needs to spend US$240 billion on expanding the rail system, which is operating at full capacity and can only handle about a third of current demand for cargo transport. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

New Albany resident gets the chance to show off his HO-scale world

You could say trains are in Jim Harrington's blood.

Harrington's father was an engineer on the Monon Railroad. And while Harrington never operated a full-size train, he has developed one of the top HO-scale model trains layouts in the area.

Yesterday, several train enthusiasts attending the National Model Railroad Association convention in Cincinnati traveled to Harrington's New Albany home to look at his layout and to share ideas.

"He has a beautiful layout," Jeffersonville resident Mark Hedge, who organized the local tour, said.

"It's pretty impressive," Neil Isabelle, of Cotlekill, N.Y., said. "I have been into trains since I was a kid."

Harrington welcomed 22 visitors -- one from Germany -- into his home. They studied and looked at every corner of his layout.

Read More And See Pictures Here

N Scale Freight Car Clearance Sale

MDC RoundHouse, Red Caboose, Deluxe Innovations, & more.
50% or more in mark downs!

Model Train Sale- Here

Ithaca man displays three-room train set

ITHACA, Mich. (AP) — When he was 10, Larry Ringle's parents gave him an American Flyer train set. His next door neighbors in Ithaca had a Lionel set-up and he played over there, too.

But it was when he was 12 that he remembers best.

"When I got home from school, I'd go down to the loading dock and watch." he said. "One day, an engineer stopped the train, stuck his head out and said, You wanna go for a ride?' Every day for two weeks I rode in the cab we just rode around the yard."

And so began Ringle's life-long love affair with model trains.

To celebrate the main line completion of his Milwaukee Central line in his basement, Ringle will stage an open house May 28-29 for enthusiasts to view his realistic and painstakingly worked model train layout. He's calling it a "Golden Spike" Ceremony.

The trains travel through three rooms in his basement, past scenery of all kinds farmlands and mines, offices, yards, bridges and tunnels.

Like other railroaders, his goal is to "make everything as realistic as possible," right down do the aging look of the tracks. His layout is Half O Gauge — about half the size of a Lionel — scale model railroad.

He cares little for other train lines and specializes in the Milwaukee Central, creating his own "Milwaukee Road." His focus in laying out his system is making a replica of the secondary main line connecting the cities of Milwaukee, Savannah, Ill. and Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Visitors would see recognizable landmarks in his handiwork.

Ringle, 60, began his project about 20 years ago, didn't install scenery until the fall and winter of 2004, when he retired. Some of the surface is homosote over plywood, and some scenery was made by dipping hand-washing wipes in plaster, he said.

Once the owner of a hobby shop in Wisconsin, Ringle said he buys the engines and cars locally, attends swap meets and keeps abreast of the latest manufactured items.

"There are two-thirds more (model railroad items) available now than in the 1970s," he said. "They're made in batches. They might be available for six months and then gone."

He buys kits, and although he says he's not much of a "modifier," he has modified some bridges and buildings.

An engine might cost $60 to $100. Car kits cost $6 or $7, but can run up to $25 with detailing.

"(As a boy) I could stand at the bathroom window and watch them switch trains," he said. "That could take two hours. I was curious about what they were carrying where had they come from and where were they going.

Thanks For sending this in! Model Train News Source Here

Model Train News- Town of Quantico celebrates train station dedication

Model Train News- Town of Quantico celebrates train station dedication

Model Train News- Railroad hotel may become museum

FORREST -- Railroad enthusiasts take note: People in Forrest plan to restore the closed Forrest Railroad Hotel as a museum and turn an old Norfolk-Western depot and railroad turntable into a park.

Members of The Forrest Historical Society have been meeting with designers and reviewing plans that they hope will emphasize the community's rich railroad history. The best ideas will be compiled and presented to the community in a meeting sometime next month, but the meeting hasn't been set yet.

In addition to restoring the hotel to how it looked in the 1920s and '30s, historical society members hope to refurbish the depot, a caboose and a railroad turntable.

"The turntable will be the biggest draw," said historical society member Karen Mueller. "It's one of only two turntables in Illinois. It is a real piece of history. The ultimate dream is to get it running so people could see how it turned the train around."

The idea of honoring Forrest's railroad heritage goes back many years.

Forrest used to be a layover spot and a major hub for freight being shipped from Decatur, St. Louis and Chicago, Sanders said. The north-south Norfolk-Western Railway line through Forrest ceased operations in the 1990s.

Bill Miller, a retired Norfolk-Western engineer and train memorabilia collector, purchased the hotel and operated it for many years as a museum, said Forrest Mayor Richard Sanders. It was a regular attraction for grade school field trips.

He had an extensive collection of model trains and railroad memorabilia, including a small steam train that he would drive with the students. Most of his collection was lost in a flood in 1984, but he gave the remaining items and the hotel to the village when he died 10 years ago.

Read More About This Model Train News Here

Model Train layout adds to fun at zoo

The garden is spread over about 800 square feet of space in the Islands Pavilion Commons, near the zoo's main entrance. The remote-controlled electric trains include a 1890s-model steam engine and a 1950s diesel engine, reminiscent of locomotives that operated in Indonesia.

Although the cars can be rearranged, the "steam" locomotive will usually pull six to eight passenger coaches; the diesel will usually have six to eight boxcars and flatcars filled with bamboo, rock and other symbols of Indonesian industry, said assistant zoo director Mark Zoeller.

Each engine is about a foot long, and the cars are slightly smaller. All of the pieces have lights inside, and the entire garden can be lit at night.

The track -- about 160 feet in two ovals -- is laid out in what Zoeller said will soon be "a lush and blooming" environment of predominantly Indonesian growth.

It can be taken apart and reassembled elsewhere for special events, such as Santa's holiday appearances, Zoeller said.

Abby's mom, Lori Powers, said she brings Abby and her sister, Anna, 3, to the zoo an average of twice a month during the spring and summer and expects the trains "will get a lot of attention."

The zoo paid Louisville sculptor David Broome about $10,000 to design the train garden, build the bamboo tunnels and bridges, and provide the two Hartland model engines and coaches, boxcars, flatcars and a caboose.

Read More Train News Here

Japanese train crash kills dozens

A train has derailed and hit a building in Japan, killing 50 people and injuring about 300 in the country's worst rail crash in four decades.

Japan's railway system, used by nearly 60 million people every day, is widely considered to be one of the world's safest.

This is the worst rail accident in Japan since a three-train crash killed 161 near Tokyo in 1963.

It is important to rememeber that compared to all other forms of land transport, trains remain one of the safest and most efficient.

Read More Of This Train News Here

Brake trouble fuels larger debate over Amtrak- Train News

Problems with high-speed Acela trains underline fight over whether railway should be privatized or funded better federally.

NEW YORK – With Amtrak's flagship Acela service sidelined until at least the summer, attention is now being focused on the long-term future of the nation's struggling passenger rail service.

President Bush wants to do away completely with the company's $1.2 billion federal subsidy, breaking up and privatizing Amtrak, which would shift responsibility for rail service to the states. Amtrak's advocates say that the railroad continues to struggle precisely because Washington has never invested enough in it. They say that breaking up the company now would only doom passenger rail in the country - not a wise move with gas prices spiraling and the aviation system in crisis.

And therein lies the crux of the debate under way on Capitol Hill: Is passenger train service a national necessity that should be subsidized to ensure its survival as the nation does for its highways and aviation systems, and as the majority of the world does for its rail services? Or should passenger rail in the United States be a private, profitmaking business that is self-sustaining?

Amtrak's advocates note that there are only a few passenger rail lines in Japan and New Zealand that actually make money. Even India, which boasts about its railroads, subsidizes its system to the tune of $3.4 billion annually, almost three times as much as Washington underwrites Amtrak

For More On This Train News Click Here

Ward Kimball's Train and Toy Collection

"What is insane today is reasonable tomorrow," said Stuart Waldman, a major dealer in toy trains from Staten Island, New York, who sat in the first row at the sale of Ward Kimball's train and toy collection at the Ramada Inn at the Philadelphia International Airport on November 19 and 20, 2004. "As a businessman there was no way I could buy for resale. Prices were pushed to new levels, and when the second half of Ward Kimball's collection is sold in May, I predict prices will be higher."

The sale was produced by Carversville, Pennsylvania, toy auction promoter Noel Barrett. The classic trains and stations were made in Europe by Märklin, Bing, Carette, and others, and in America by George Brown, Lionel, and American Flyer. They were sold along with toys by Reed, Bliss, Lehmann, Gunthermann, Stevens & Brown, and others. Barrett estimated the sale would bring as much as $1.731 million, and it brought a million more—$2.734 million (including buyers' premiums). There is no sales tax on an estate sale in Pennsylvania.

"It was the most expensive train sale in history. That much money has never changed hands in one day at a train sale," said a surprised Ken Post, a train dealer in Closter, New Jersey, who served as Barrett's consultant for the cataloging and estimates. Post said he based his estimates on what similar trains had sold for in the past, and at the Kimball sale many sold for two and three times his expectations.

The success of this sale was due to a combination of factors. Kimball was a famous collector (a celebrated Disney animator) who publicized his collection in many articles in trade journals and magazines over the last 35 years, the collection was off the market for a generation, and there is a supply of new collectors in America and abroad. It was an example of supply and demand: there is a demand for fine trains, but there is little supply.

Read More Here

Full steam ahead for rail event in the UK

A major exhibition of large-scale model trains will soon be steaming into Warwickshire. Enthusiasts will be able to see model railways in action, with steam engines hauling their trains around 10 huge railway layouts. The Large Scale Model Rail Exhibition 2005 is an annual event which is packed full of exhibits. Enthusiasts will also be able to buy everything they need for their hobby from more than 30 specialist suppliers. The exhibition takes place over the weekend of April 16 and 17, at Warwickshire Exhibition Centre, off the Fosse Way, near Leamington. Tickets cost £6.50 for adults, £6 for pensioners, £5 for children aged from four to 14 and £17.50 for a family ticket.

Model Event

Staff at Virgin Trains raised £3,829 for the CHILDREN 1st charity in Glasgow recently. Model Train

Operating Railroad Volunteers Wanted!

The Whitewater Valley Railroad (WVRR) in Connersville, Ind. is a not-for-profit operating railroad museum that offers a free class to volunteers who want to help operate the railroads trains. Here's a great way to give back to the train world and have a lot of fun too! This Class of 2005 train training

More Model Railroad links

You might find these links a little easier- model railroad resources

Model Train Resources

Here's some nice links, they aren't arranged the best way but if you click through you'll find some "gems" in the rough! Model Train Resources

Model Train Secrets Revealed- The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains

If you haven't yet picked up a copy of "the Ultimate Guide To Model Trains" you really should! Save time, money and energy with the Model Train Secrets of the experts and great resource guide. Learn about how to make your own Layout, Scenary, and more!

Model Railroad enthusiasts the world over agree it is perfect for the beginner. Rest assured, the 2nd edition (which I am currently writing) will be a lot more advanced and contain a lot more step by step, technical details. Right now there's a great special on where if you buy the "Ultimate Guide To Model Trains" (1st edition) I'll give you a free copy of the 2nd edition when it's released! Model Train Secrets Revealed- The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains

How to Design a Model Train Scene

1. Choose a time period and geographical area for your train to travel through.

2. Pick a locomotive and cars from that period and location.

3. Get an architecture book from the library and look at buildings from that time period.

4. Select a season of the year. You'll want flowers in spring and summer, colorful foliage in fall, and barren deciduous trees and even snow in winter.

5. Find out what kind of trees populate the area you want to re-create if you want to be really specific.

6. Get model trees that look like native species, as well as buildings from that area, at the hobby shop. If you want, build them yourself with balsa wood and paint.

7. Add a tunnel or a drawbridge to your scene if possible. It's exciting.

8. Add a rail station. Include figures in period dress. A working grain elevator, where appropriate, is usually very impressive.

9. Make sure any model cars and rail crossings are from the right era and to the right scale relative to the trains.

10. Use slopes and inclines to add interest.

11. Vary the shades of green for your grass, bushes and trees.

12. Cover most of the scene with greenery or roads and buildings or colored gravel. Avoid making it too busy, but leave no open spots where, in real life, there would likely be activity.

The more detail the better. You're trying to re-create a scene from history or real life and not just create a context for your train to move through.

You can get a kit that contains most of what you need, including glue and paints.

Too much activity is distracting and ruins the image of your train traveling great distances. Be creative but specific with your scenery.

Table by Chris
When preparing your table and if you are painting it, use only model paint. It will look better.

This great list of tips is from here

Large Scale Smoke Tips

Smoke Tips

How to Buy a Model Train Set- tips for the novice

1.	Go to the toy store or hobby store. The toy store is likely to sell wind-up trains, called "tin plate" trains. The hobby store will sell a more complicated, electric model train set.
2.	Decide how extensive a set you want. For a child, a simple circular track without much scenery will probably suffice. For adults, things get more complex.
3.	Decide on a scale. The common scales for model trains, ranked from largest to smallest, are O, S, HO and TT. HO is the most common scale.
4.	After you've chosen a scale, decide whether you have enough room for it in your house - or if you need a smaller scale. Reconsider as necessary.
5.	Buy a small amount of track, the necessary switches and plugs, an engine and a few cars to start. If a kit is available, start that way, making sure those basic components are included.
6.	Ensure you have enough curves and can lay out a complete circuit.
7.	Stop by a hardware store and pick up a table for your set or wood to build one.
8.	Leave room for expansion. Try to get trains and any buildings or scenery from the same historical era. Pick a time period that interests you; for example, the turn of the century or the 1870s. Smaller gauge for small apartment. by eHow Friend If you live in a small apartment, consider buying and collecting minigauge trains and accessories (N or Z). They will give you more room to work with than O or HO. N is the most popular gauge after HO. Z is smaller, but more expensive. Keeping your layout clean. Dust is the mortal enemy of any model train layout. I have found it helpful to cover my layout with the thinnest, lightest clear plastic sheets that you can buy. Hidden support holes in my layout allow the insertion of dowels to support the sheet like a tent. Can you picture a clear plastic sheet not touching that which it covers? This great list of tips is from here

How to Care for Your Model Train

Caring for model trains is not unlike caring for any other sort of model. Dust them to keep them working regularly.

1.	Check the electronics. Change or recharge batteries regularly.
2.	Take the cars off the track and dust them thoroughly.
3.	Clean connections with compressed air, available where photography and computer supplies are sold.
4.	Clean connections with contact cleaner, using a small piece of linen.
5.	Don't repaint your train cars unless they start to look scratched. A slightly haggard or weathered look is fine if it looks genuine.
6.	Repaint your cars if there's a derailment or they get scratched. If you repaint, try to touch them up rather than totally redo them.
7.	Sweep the surrounding area regularly to keep dust down before it dulls the layout and affects the electronics.

Covering your train set shouldn't be necessary. Besides, you want the set out for viewing even when not in operation.

If you have a cat, keep it away from your trains. It will chase the train around the layout and destroy everything.

Train wheels by yossif B.
If you have a pet, don't put your train on the floor. The wheels could be damaged.

This great list of tips was from HERE

Toy Train Displays To See When On Holiday

Toy train displays are a family favorite for the holiday season. Visit these holiday model train exhibits in Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia. Trains To See

Model Trains Article

This is an article from Chris Ellis of Model Trains International explaining a simple and effective way to fit Kadee couplers to British Outline stock.
Model Trains Article

Cyanoacrylate adhesive (CA) tips for Model Railroads

Cyanoacrylate adhesive tips for model trains (CA): Cyanoacrylates are handy for their ability to join dissimilar materials. They are a good choice for joining wood, plastic, metal, and resin. CAs also have excellent strength for pulling faces, but they don't provide much shear strength (joints with sideways pull).

So you want to be an engineer?

Model Train Simulator
So you want to be an engineer?

Wattis/Dumke Model Railroad museum

Bridges add so much to a Model Railroad. They take a while to build but are well worth the effort! Here are some pictures to inspire you.
Wattis/Dumke model railroad museum

Here is an excellent example of the clever use of a backdrop picture. The use of colour gives the appearance of depth and the sense you can see far off into the distance past the bridge.

ABCs of adhesive use with Model Trains

ABCs of adhesives: For any given job there may be several adhesives that will work well, but picking the wrong one can lead to a model that won’t stay together. Knowing how to use each glue and which glues work with various materials can help keep our models looking good.

Railroad History Exhibit

The exhibit is operated by the Southern California Chapter of the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society and consists of eight locomotives and four cars from different periods in the nation's rail history.

News

Model Train Tips- Brick wall decals

Computer 'magic' turns a prototype photo into a realistic structure! Here's some tips on making a realistic brick structure for your Model Railroad. Brick wall decals

For stratified rock formations, look up- great money saving tips for your Model Train Set

For stratified rock formations, look up: Broken strips of ceiling tile can put some rugged geology on your layout!! The answer for making those dramatic rock face ledges may be right above you. Of course, you could get in trouble with your spouse if you start taking out your rec room's ceiling tile. But you can take some extra ceiling tiles from a remodeling job or go out and buy a box to create the rugged scenery that can be appropriate in many locales, and is a must for any layout set in the West.

Model Train Clubs

One of the things I recommend people do is join a Model Railroad club in their local area. If you can't find one, why not start one? They are a great way to meet new friends as well as create some very impressive Model Train Layouts. A great way to get public attention and promote the hobby of Model Trains is to tell your local paper or run an open day. Here's an article on a successful, 20 year old club. Train society on track

Model Train Tips- Using white glue and acrylic medium

White glue, such as Elmer's Glue-All, is an excellent choice for gluing porous materials such as wood, paper, and cardboard. Here's some tips for working with this material. White glue and acrylic medium

Operating Model Train layout in Elko, Nevada

Here is a great Model Train Layout. Check out the picture of the Train Set at night.... 200 lights bring it to life! Something like this takes time and gradual improvement, though the results and fun makes it really worth it. Operating model train layout in Elko, Nevada

Railroad hobbyists rebuild in Alger

A little less than two years ago, something awful happened to the Bellingham Society of Model Engineers. The club lost its lease.

A massive model railroad layout that had been built during a 10-year period had to be disassembled. Tracks were torn up. Some of the layout could be moved, but for the most part, the plaster hills and painted scenery were lost. Today the club has found a new home and is going strong. Good news for Model Railroad hobbyists

Show proves train hobby chugs on

The hobby of Model Trains sure has improved with technology. Here's a report of the Great American Train Show at Municipal Auditorium.Show proves train hobby chugs on as times change

Details, details, details... Making your Model Train Better

You can always add more details to your growing Model Railroad... here are some easy ideas you can use. Details, details, details

Operation Guides for Better Model Railroad Operations

Operation Guides for Better Model Railroad Operations

Tips For working with Plastic Cement in Your Model Railroad

Here's some tips to help you with using plastic cement in your Model Train set. Solvent-type plastic cements are the best choice for bonding plastic to plastic. All work on the same principle: The solvent in the cement melts the top surfaces of the mating parts of plastic, effectively welding them together. If applied properly, a joint glued with plastic cement is as strong as the plastic itself. They will not work, however, for joining plastic to other materials. Here's some tips to help you with using plastic cement in your Model Train set. Plastic cement Tips

Spice Up Your Model Train Set With An Operating Container Terminal!

Here's a great one at a reduced price. Brawa HO Operating Container Terminal

Ballast: How to lay rock so your Model Trains will roll

Here's a great Guide for you, Ballast is very important in Model Trains, benefit from these Tips!
Ballast: How to lay rock so your Model Trains will roll

10th Annual Train Show

The Carolina Coastal Railroaders bring the 10th annual Train Show to NBHS this weekend. The New Bern Sun Journal Has All The Details.

This is an excellent use of a Snow Scene in this Model Railroad. I really like the historical consistency throughout.

Model Railroad Scenery

An easy way to make Bridges or Mountains Model railroad Scenery Tips

Tree Making Made Easy For Your Model Train Set

If you haven't yet picked up a copy of my book The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains you really must! In the mean time, here's a great guide to making your own Trees (complete with pictures) for your Model Railroad.

Tree Making: "The need for tall trees on my railroad, from 12' to 18' tall, led me a merry dance for many weeks. I had used in the past dried fern bought from a florists. After making many with this natural material, I found that even a slight knock would damage this delicate fern. So, I looked around for another material which wouldn't break..."

How to make rock castings

Plaster:Though Hydrocal is often recommended, U. S. Gypsum no. 1 casting plaster of paris is perfectly satisfactory and costs much less.

Choosing the molds- How to make Rock Castings For Your Model

Choosing the molds It’s fairly easy to make your own rock molds. The hardest part may be locating a rock, or rocks, with enough surface detail to be interesting at a scale size; coal also works very well. Here's How to do it.

Hundreds flock to Toy Train meet

News It's great to see the next generation discovering the joys of Model Trains!

Basics of Building Plastic Structures for your Model Railroad, with Step-By-Step Photos

Plastic structures offer a wide variety of building styles at very affordable prices, and they continue to improve in quality and detail. Here's an article to help you.
Basics of Building Plastic Structures for your Model Railroad, with step-by-step photos

Making Your Own Model People

Here is an excellent idea by Robert Plevier from Australia about how to make your own model people with some stunning results. If you love to Model everything your self from scratch, then you wil really enjoy these great Insights!
MAKING LITTLE PEOPLE

What I really love about this particular Model Train Set is the attention to detail, remember little things go a long way! Weathing, moss, painting the railing a different color to draw attention to the bridge...

Photographing Model Railroads On a Shoestring Budget

Attention Model Railroad photo lovers!! Here's some great Tips on how to take better photos and Save Money! Photo Tips For Model Railroaders

How To Save up to 60% on Model Trains

Hi everyone, well a new site has just come to my attention and I wanted to let you all know about it! They have actually been around a while but for some reason I never noticed them. They are located in Atlanta Georgia and have a fairly good range online. Check it out and post a comment if you have dealt with them before. Save up to 60% on Model Trains Here

People often ask what the different "Scales" of Model Trains mean. Here's a nice picture that makes it Easy to understand.

Road Work Tips To "Spice" Up Your Model Train Empire

Step-by-step techniques create a realistic look to your paved roads. Trains may be the stars of our Model Railroad empire but the Scenery certainly plays an important supporting role. Road work: Road work tips.

Model Train Scenary Secrets -Lily Pads, Cattails, and Pond Scum For Your Model Railroad Set

Lily pads, cattails, and pond scum: Your Layout may have a lowlands area that could use a small lake pond, or bog. These shallow, quiet bodies of fresh water usually contain cattails, lily pads, and pond scum. Here are a few simple techniques for Modeling those details and making your Model Train Set look even better.

Model Train Show Set For Longview

KLTV 7 Tyler-Longview-Jacksonville, TX: Model Train Show Set For Longview: It's the first week of March, and that means it's a special time for those who enjoy the hobby of model trains in Longview. With everything perfect to the last detail, the final preps are being put on the annual Junction East Texas Train Society, or JETTS Show at the Longview Exposition Center. If you're in the area be sure to make it to the model train show, it will be great!

Lights! Why not make your Model Train set that much more impressive with a few well placed night scences?

Setting The Scene- Buildings can say as much about what you're modeling as the trains!

While the individual elements of a Layout—the Trains, Scenery, Operating Scheme, and even the room setting—are important, perhaps nothing tells viewers more about your Railroad than the Buildings. Non-Modelers often pick up the clues given by structures, even though they know nothing about the Railroad elements.

There are several ways to get Buildings for your Layout, but first you need to determine just which types of Buildings you'll need to help set the scene. Here's How...Setting The Scene

Disguising backdrop openings

Disguising backdrop openings Clever solutions make a layout appear larger, here's some ideas.

How to make your model cityscape look big

Forcedperspective: This is a neat little trick you might like to use. "Forced perspective" is the use of objects that are reduced in size to create the illusion of great distance in a very small space. A simple example is to model the scenery and buildings behind a train to a smaller scale than the train itself. When the viewer looks over the train at the buildings, they appear to be far away because of their smaller size, even though only inches may separate the two. Your eye perceives these decreases in size as increased distance.

Using Adjacent Scales

Article: The popular model railroading scales explained, examined and discussed. Good for beginners, especially if you are familiar with other "Scale" hobbies.

Hobby sends trains off the rails

For rail enthusiasts with a fast computer, it is all-aboard for the future: Thanks to some excellent train software and the painstaking efforts of enthusiasts, it is possible for anyone with quickish hardware to take virtual trips with varying degrees of realism on railways around the world.

Making a Simple Scratchbuilt Structure For Your Model Train Set

Making a simple Scratchbuilt Structure: Making a simple Scratchbuilt Structure Made Easy. This outline includes some nice pictures. I really like adding these sorts of things to my model train sets.

Fun Action and Animated Layouts

Fun Action and Animated Layouts: These layouts are designed for enjoyment. They provide great action for model railroading and toy train operations. Even better: most of these layout plans include the use of operating accessories. The goal is an easy-to-build railroad that almost anyone can make.

Curves make a wonderful addition to your model. But be warned! You MUST pay attention to the "S" curve (especially "hidden s curves") otherwise you may have derailment problems. There's some great information about tips and tricks to finding, preventing and eliminating hidden S curves in my book, "The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains". Something you can do right now regardless whether you have my book or not is to watch your train, does it derail regularly? If it does, consider reducing the curve or the length of the train.

The easiest route to color water

The easiest route to color water It really comes down to how much detail you want to put into it, here's some basic tips to help you out.

Landscaping Tips and Tricks!

Landscaping Tips and Tricks: Hints For Outdoor Miniature Designs
Landscaping can be a real challenge or it can be a lot of fun! It can cost a fortune or not much at all. The beauty of miniatures is that you can start a landscaping project any time of year at all, but often the most inspiration comes in springtime. Whether you are inspired to start or pick up a great way to cut corners, there is something helpful for every landscaping project here.

If you want to read more about this sort of thing, grab a copy of my
new ebook The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains

S-Scale Popularity Is Growing

S-Scale Popularity Is Growing: In the early 1900's the O scale was very popular, but at 1/48 it was too large for many hobbyists tastes or the room they had available. HO scale was created but many felt that it was too small and an alternative was sought.

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Stand By For A Great Guide To Tree Making.... Coming soon!!

This site is fantastic for getting ideas for new layouts! Loads of pictures of different historical eras and scales. You can even vote for your favourite!

Check this out! Talk about being "a part" of your layout... :-)

This is a great example of the use of a snow scene in a part of the model. Why not have 4 seasons in a day? I also really like this becasue it's multi level which is great fun!

Customised Scenery

If you don't feel up to building your own, or have a large project, why not hire someone to help you? These guys do most projects in under 7 days!
Click Here: They can build all or part of your model scenery and we can work on projects that have already begun.

Bridges are a bit involved to make, but aren't they just wonderful to look at?

Mountains! You can read all about how to make your own at home, easily and economically by reading my new ebook,
"The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains"

D-I-Y remote control for a model train layout.

This is rather technical for most people, though all you need is a picaxe, some code and a pair of pre-built UHF modules (plus a few minor parts).
Silicon Chip Online - D-I-Y remote control for a model train layout.: "D-I-Y remote control for a model train layout"

Level crossings are another great, simple way to bring your model to life! 

Little details make all the difference! Why not add a small barrel or a horse to your model? It adds to the historic feel and makes it loads more fun! 

Haloscan commenting and trackback have been added to this blog.

The Ultimate Guide to Model Trains

This is my new e book, so far the feedback has been very positive. Well worth checking out!
The Ultimate Guide to Model Trains: "Who Else Wants To Learn The Step By Step Secrets Of Veteran Model Railroaders, And Have Them Guide You To Save Time, Money And Stress So You Can Quickly Build, Maintain And Repair The Model Train Set Of Your Dreams?"

Tough times for a classic as Lionel copes with lawsuit, bankruptcy

It's such a shame that Lionel is in trouble. One of the marketing difficulties for Lionel and others is that their products are sold mostly in independent hobby shops and not where most people buy toys. Wal-Mart Stores Inc., Toys R Us Inc. and other mass retailers don't carry train sets because they're too expensive. Let's hope that enough "grass roots" support for Lionel will keep them chugging along!

Click Here
"Tough times for a classic as Lionel copes with lawsuit, bankruptcy "

Railroad 'fever' affects all ages

Ottumwa Courier - News - 02/28/2005 - Railroad 'fever' affects all ages
OTTUMWA - No matter if they were grayheads or towheads, southeast Iowans flocked to the Railroad Fair Weekend. Here's some more GOOD news!

Santa Maria Centennial Model Railroad Exhibition

It is really heartwarming to see people out there "spreading the word"!
Why not organise a similar event in your local area?
Archived Story: "Model trains chugged their way over hundreds of feet of railroad layout Saturday during the Santa Maria Centennial Model Railroad Exhibition, one of the largest of its kind ever to pull into the Central Coast. A main focus of the exhibition was a miniature version of both the Santa Maria and Guadalupe trains from 1946 to 1966, which included replica scenery as well as the machines, and was contributed by the museum. "
Click Here For More

N SCale Pics And Movies

All Gauge Model Railway Club, Inc. Links: N Scale Fans Take A Look!

Building a Small Coal Tender

Click Here: Read (and see!) a real life example of building your own small coal tender

How difficult it is to run multiple powered locos coupled together?

Newbie multiple powered unit question: Here's some good advice for the beginner!

Mountain Railroading in N Scale. |Real Leaf Ground Cover|

Conrail Pittsburgh Line. Mountain Railroading in N Scale. |Real Leaf Ground Cover|: Real leaf ground cover made at home!

HO Scale Pictures And Movies!

All Gauge Model Railway Club, Inc. Links: Plenty of HO Scale pics and movies!

Removable Backdrops on an N-scale Train Layout

Removable Backdrops on an N-scale Train Layout: Most layouts have backdrops of some type or another. And most backdrops on layouts I've visited are permanent and immovable. Because they're often against the wall or actually on the wall, this often creates no inconveniences

Installing a Digitrax DG583S Decoder

By popular demand...Bachmann Heisler Modeling Tips!

Rolling Stock Tips

Click here: Tuning and Detailing Bachmann Flat Cars Made Easy!

A Great Garden Railroad

The Protem Valley Railroad: Owned by Dick and Anna Harper, is situated off Interstate 575 north of Atlanta. Sam Gamgee, Mayor of Hobbiton, and Gimli the Dwarf visited the Protem Valley during a meeting of the Georgia Garden Railroad Society on June 9, 2001. Be sure to check out the pictures... you might even see them discussing matters in front of the Protem Valley Station.

Mini Layout Track Plans

Click here: Here's Some Mini Layout Track Plans Listed By Scale.

Ocean Grove Train show 2004

*REPOST*
Ocean Grove Train show 2004: Ocean Grove Train Show 2004! The Crawford family has again sponsored the annual Train Show at Ocean Grove fir the Holiday season. Held on the 11th and 12th of December, the free show featured O27, HO, and N scale layouts. Hundreds of people attended, taking advantage of Ocean Grove's Holiday Weekend.

Display Layouts- especially for small spaces!

Click Here Collected for you are a large assortment of layouts designed for holiday displays. They have been carefully planned to allow a balance of action plus room for scenery, taking into account that most will be used under the Yule Tree. We have accounted for both the tree and its stand in these plans. All layouts allow continuous running of trains.

About S Scale Trains

About S Scale Trains: A Brief History About 'S' Scale Railroading.

Troubleshooting American Flyer Hi-Rail cars.

Troubleshooting American Flyer Hi-Rail cars.: "Improve Heavyweight truck performance!"

Trees are a really nice way to add realism to your train model. In my book, "The Ultimate Guide To Model Trains" you can find out how to make them cheaply and easily!

Simply Stunning! 

Rivers and Lakes

Rivers and Lakes: Rivers and water falls can be made with Enviro-Tex. If you've never tried it, its worth giving it a go.

Model Railroad Conservancy

Model Railroad Conservancy: Steve Moss (SKMoss) has come up with a great idea to help promote the railroad modeling hobby. His new organization is called the Model Railroad Conservancy. As you'll see, if you read this open letter, he has some very solid ideas to help grow and promote our hobby. Please take time to read this letter and seriously consider support for his (our) effort. Many folks have already pledged their help.

Wood-Sided Cabooses from American Models

American Flyer / AC Gilbert Compatible Wood-Sided Cabooses from American Models: "At last for S gauge, a wood sided caboose. Featuring brass details and grab irons on ends, roof, sides and a cupola roof. A two bulb lighting board is standard with window glazing"

10 Ways to Model Water on a Model Train Layout

*REPOST (it got deleted) I personally love trains, and what I like next is water! Here's a great list of the top methods to model it, the good the bad, the ugly and when each would be best to do. There's some nice pictures too! 10 Ways to Model Water on a Model Train Layout: Ten Ways To Model Water

Discount Model Trains For Sale

This is one of my favourite suppliers. They have some great stuff and their prices are fairly good. I plan to post my top 10 list of cheap suppliers soon, so be sure to leave a comment if you have any suggestions!!Discount Model Trains Online Model Railroad - Railroading

N-scale Model Train Signals--Cheap!

I love signals and think they add so much to a model. Check this out... how to make each turnout have a bicolor signal for just $1.11N-scale Model Train Signals--Cheap!: "Cheap But Effective Signals in N Scale"

Multi-throttle Model Train Operation: New Train Control Idea

Here's a nice article to get you thinking! It's a rather different perspective on throttle wiring and usage, different block power on/off conventions, and how this relates to different operations with regards to both train running and signal wiring and usage.

Multi-throttle Model Train Operation: New Train Control Idea: "This article will do much more than discuss unusual train control conventions. It will actually look at where model railroading has been, where it is now, where it is going, and how conventional wisdom sometimes has to step aside and accept that reality should not be asked to mold itself to beliefs; rather, beliefs should be made to bow to reality. You may be surprised. I was"

My Blog got wiped!

Hi everyone, it seems some strange things are
happening with technology today. Rest
assured I'll get this back together soon!!

Happy railroading!

Albert

Gateway NMRA Contest and Award Winning Railroad Models and Photos

I personally love great photos! NMRA conventions and train show events regularly feature a model and photo contest where entries are displayed to be viewed and enjoyed by other model railroaders and the general public. Any NMRA member may enter models and photos into these contests. Maybe you'll want to bring some of your modeling and photographic efforts to the train show this year?



Gateway NMRA Contest and Award Winning Railroad Models and Photos: "Contest Winning Railroad Models"

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