Walthers N scale 2-8-8-2 Y3a Mallet A highly detailed N scale model of a Y3a 2-8-8-2 steam locomotive is now available with a factory- installed sound system. This N scale Y3a from Walthers features a dual-mode Digital Command Control (DCC) sound decoder. The tooling for the model is the same as the DC version from […]
In the Spring 2009 issue of Classic Trains, a retired stationmaster looks back at his career with the Long Island Rail Road. Here, from the Herron Rail Video [www.herronrail.com] program “Pennsylvania Glory, Vol. 1,” are some scenes filmed by Benjamin T. Young of LIRR steam in action. […]
Broadway Limited Imports HO scale PRR I1sa 2-10-0 Models of the Pennsylvania RR’s powerful class I1sa Decapod-type locomotives have just been introduced by Broadway Limited Imports. They’re offered in a number of versions that capture the look and feel of PRR’s standard motive power design. The models include automatic dual-mode sound decoders that operate on […]
Q I saw an unclear photo of a Pennsylvania steam locomotive identified as an S2, with the number 6200. Two things caught my eye: the 6-8-6 wheel arrangement, and the absence of any visible cylinders or driving rods. What can you tell me about it?– J.H. Lehman, Dayton, Ohio A The 6200 was a one-of-a-kind […]
LET’S CUT RIGHT TO THE CHASE. This is the finest steam locomotive that Lionel has ever made. Period. End of discussion. Insert photo of me puckering up to give this steamer a big old smooch. Whew. OK, I’ve taken a deep breath. I’ve cooled down. Now, on with the rest of the review. This Lionel […]
ATLAS O’S PEDIGREE includes the Atlas product lines in N and HO scales. The same attention to detail and overall quality that goes into the Atlas product line is the foundation of Atlas O’s three product groupings: The Master line of rugged, high-end, superbly detailed O scale locomotives and rolling stock; the Trainman line of […]
OKAY, SO THE BRASS IN LIONELVILLE was trying to come up with a new engine for starter sets. Or, better said, they were trying to develop a new value-priced locomotive that could be sold separately or in starter sets. Of the gazillions of prototypes out there, Lionel settled on the USRA 0-8-0 steam locomotive. That […]
Q As a boy, I used to watch the magnificent Southern Pacific cab-forward steam locomotives on their way to Donner Summit in Northern California. Someone referred to them as Mallets. What’s the true definition of a Mallet? — C.W. Haffey, Bakersfield, Calif. A By definition, a Mallet (mal-LAY) is an articulated, meaning the two engine […]
Kevin Strong 1:20.3-scale, gauge 1, side rod, gas-mechanical locomotiveBachmann Industries1400 East Erie Ave.Philadelphia PA 19124Price: $275Web site www.bachmanntrains.com Plastic and die-cast-metal industrial gas-mechanical switcher; two powered axles; cab interior; smoke unit; directional lighting; two sets of knuckle couplers; polarity switch; DCC-ready using NMRA standard 8-pin plug. Dimensions: length, 7¾” (over footboards); width, 3¾”; height, 5″. […]
MTH Electric Trains HO scale Mohawk 4-8-2 Hudsons and Niagaras made the headlines on the steam-era New York Central, but Mohawks and Mikados made the profits. Plastic models of Hudsons, Niagaras, and H-6 Mikes have been available for several years, but Mohawks were available only in brass. Now the MTH HO L-3 and L-4 Mohawks […]
LIKE THE UNITED STATES, much of Canada is flat and empty with a humongous mountain range over on the left side. Factor in absurdly bad winters, and railroading in Canada requires industrial-strength solutions. It takes quite a bit of effort to haul people and things today, and it was not any easier in the steam […]
International Hobby Corp. HO scale USRA Light Mikado This 2-8-2 Mikado is a medium-size steam freight locomotive that comes ready-to-run and performs extremely well. It includes a Digital Command Control socket for easy conversion to DCC. The model comes decorated in 11 road names and includes a USRA 32-foot rectangular coal tender. Made by International […]
