Summer 2025

The Summer 2025 issue of Classic Toy Trains

Featured

In this Issue

Filling the gap

A section of this well-known layout is finally completed

Lionel's postwar military switchers

These hardworking engines were based on Army and Navy prototypes

Basics of toy train layout wiring

How electricity works for anyone just getting started

Enhancing a Plasticville switch tower

Hobby paints and commercial parts do the job

Realism upgrades toys on a Flyer layout

Scenery improves vintage trains and accessories

Modern Lionel and DC power

First and final sets with this feature

Lights, Camera, Lionel Trains!

Introducing the latest book by CTT’s Roger Carp

Lionel turns 125!

CEO Howard Hitchcock talks about the brand’s anniversary, new products, and the future

Lionel's great innovation for 1938

How the uncoupling track became the unloading track

Build the Marshfield & Old Colony RR

An around-the-room plan with easy access

Madison marketing 102

Tank cars were a specialty

Also in this issue:

EDITOR’S DESK, pg. 4
Solving a Marx mystery

YOUR LETTERS, pg. 6

YOUR PHOTOS, pg. 8

NEWS & REVIEWS, pg. 12

  • Lionel U28C diesel, MTH Bump-N-Go trolley, Menards mine shaft, custom runs, and more

COLLECTIBLE CLASSICS, pg. 18

  • Lionel’s No. 395 Floodlight Tower

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS, pg. 58

  • Wire a signal bridge, remove Flyer shells, prevent running in reverse, and much more

AD INDEX, pg. 63

TIPS & TRICKS, pg. 66

  • Inexpensive ballast container, fix that unsightly wire