How can I fill in rail gaps on my N scale layout?

Tweezers are used to insert a strip of white styrene in a rail gap on a handmade turnout

Q: After carefully measuring and cutting rail, too often there is still a gap between the rail ends that some of my N scale cars don’t like. I’ve been trying some different fillers, but it’s a challenge for N gauge. Any suggestions for a gap filler? – Steven Simmerman A: Hi, Steven. Some rail gaps […]

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Is there a passenger set or caboose to go with the Lionel T&P steam engine?

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Cody helps a viewer track down products in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have questions about model railroading? Would you like to learn more about full-size trains? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where editors answer the questions […]

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What is the best way to replicate mortar joints on styrene kit walls?

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Cody offers five tips in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have questions about model railroading? Would you like to learn more about full-size trains? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where editors answer the questions readers and viewers […]

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Where do you find replacement parts for out of production locomotives?

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Cody helps track down specific parts in this video of Ask Trains. Do you need help tracking down auto production parts? Would you like to learn more about full-size railroading? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where editors answer the questions readers […]

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Five tips for creating a summery scene

a diorama of a yellow and gray house with figures in the driveway

Five tips for creating a summery scene: Summer is a time for gathering outside with family and friends. There are a lot of nostalgic activities that can be modeled to remind us of a hot, summer day — perhaps even of a specific childhood memory. Most of my fondest memories happen during summer months, so […]

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Where do you find replacement parts for specific models/projects?

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Cody helps track down specific parts in this video of Ask Trains. Do you need help tracking down parts for your kitbashing project? Would you like to learn more about prototype railroading? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where editors […]

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What is the wand used for that comes with the Rapido RDC Budd car?

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Cody helps discover the use for the wand in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have questions about items included with your models? Would you like to learn more about full-Size trains? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where […]

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Choosing a command system

A LionChief set power supply with FasTrack terminal section

When choosing a command system, you may encounter starter sets from three current train makers: Lionel, MTH, and Williams by Bachmann. The Bachmann sets have conventionally controlled locomotives and are operated by a traditional power supply, where speed is manipulated with a dial or lever raising or lowering track power. Lionel LionChief sets feature locomotives […]

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Why are wheel flanges on the inside of train wheels?

Q: Is there a relatively simple answer to the question as to why you find the wheel flanges on the inside rather than the outside of the rail on railroad engines and cars? – Gerald Roberts A: Who knows what thought went into that decision way back when. The real answer might come down to “because […]

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Adding track on the cheap

Pieces of Lionel Fastrack

There is an astonishing (and confusing) variety of track available, and you may wish to “mix and match” brands. For example, you may want to use an operating section for triggering a dump car, but it isn’t available in your track brand. You can transition to tubular track, insert a traditional activation section, and transition […]

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