Having to disassemble a train layout is always frustrating, thinking about the time and effort I put into building it. But alas, many model railroads eventually run their course, and the space is needed for other uses. In my 40s, I began thinking about a layout that could be preserved yet be flexible enough to […]
The United States celebrates its semiquincentennial anniversary (250 years) in July 2026! Manufacturers have started announcing motive power for this notable event. The following is a list of what’s been announced; I will update this article as I receive more announcements. If you know of a locomotive not on this list, including S gauge engines, […]
Locomotives & rolling stock Atlas Model Railroad Co., Inc., 378 Florence Ave., Hillside, NJ 07205, offers an O gauge Gunderson 60’ Hy-Cube Boxcar as part of the Master series. The boxcar features several roadnames and O-54 operation. Expected delivery in third quarter of 2026. Price: $109.95. Website: shop.atlasrr.com MTH Electric Trains, 7393 Washington Blvd. Ste. […]
Please enjoy this selection of holiday-themed photos of toy trains from Lionel and American Flyer in O gauge, S gauge, and Standard gauge. If you have a photo you’d like considered for a future gallery, contact editor@classictoytrains.com See even more holiday photos! […]
For as long as there has been model railroading, there have been model railroad clubs. Many of these groups and organizations, with some dating back to the 1930s, remain active today with well-established roots to weather the highs and lows. While the world has changed significantly, starting an all-new club from scratch is still possible. […]
A holiday toy train photo gallery is just the thing to get you in the Christmas spirit. Please enjoy this selection of holiday-themed photos of toy trains from Lionel and American Flyer in O gauge, S gauge, and Standard gauge (with some bonus N and large scale trains). If you have a photo you’d like […]
The Standard Gauge Module Association (SGMA) has announced the schedule for its annual display at the Winterthur Museum, Garden, & Library in Winterthur, Delaware. The display is part of the museum’s Yuletides at Winterthur event. Watch a preview video of the display. Members of the SGMA will operate both new and vintage Standard gauge equipment. […]
Dave Baule’s S gauge layout Dimensions: 11 x 25 feet Track and switches: American S Gauge (diameters range from 38 to 76 inches) Motive power: American Models, Gilbert American Flyer, S-Helper Service Rolling stock: American Models, American S Gauge, Downs, Gilbert American Flyer, Lionel American Flyer, S-Helper Service Controls: Gilbert American Flyer Nos. 16B and […]
Bob and Diane Zwieg’s O gauge layout Dimensions: 9 x 13 feet Track and switches: K-Line, Lionel (diameters range from 27 to 72 inches) Motive power: Atlas O, K-Line, Lionel, MTH, Williams Rolling stock: Atlas O, K-Line, Lionel, MTH, Williams Controls: Lionel, Model Rectifier transformers with Lionel TrainMaster Command Control Accessories: Department 56, Lemax, Lionel […]
Lionel’s No. 7-12124 Battery-Powered Harry Potter Train Set is the perfect way to introduce youngsters to the wonderful hobby of toy trains. How do I know this? Because I used this exciting and entertaining passenger set to introduce my two young grandsons (ages 6 and 4 years) to operating electric trains. Believe me when I […]
If your industrial park or big city needs a power boost, Menards has you covered with a three pack of electrical towers. While doing research, I learned that the industry term for this item is a transmission tower, at least in the United States. The towers are usually made from steel, and support overhead power […]
Also in this issue: EDITOR’S DESK, pg. 4 The benefits of club membership YOUR LETTERS, pg. 6 YOUR PHOTOS, pg. 8 NEWS & REVIEWS, pg. 12 Trainz acquires Lionel parts; LCCA founder turns 90; new Atlas items, Menards freight cars, and more QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS, pg. 18 Cleaning postwar rolling stock, converting MTH diesel to […]
