Theo Cobb illustration So long as your rails are clean and your rolling stock is fine-tuned, it’s time to inspect your right-of-way for problems. This is the fourth of five quick articles on how to check for and fix common mechanical and electrical track problems with model railroad track. Electrical problems in turnouts and switches […]
Some power-routing turnouts use thin metal tabs to provide contact between the stock rails and switch points. These tabs are often unreliable, especially on older turnouts, and can cause locomotives to stall. Paul J. Dolkos Theo Cobb illustration So long as your rails are clean and your rolling stock is fine-tuned, it’s time to inspect […]
A locomotive leaning into a superelevated curve is a dramatic scene on a prototype and model railroad. Follow the simple method above for making superelevated curves on your model train layout using layers of cardstock shims I think the most exciting railroad photos are of a locomotive at speed leaning into a curve. This “lean” […]
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Portable air compressors are a great tool for a model railroader’s home workshop. They’re especially useful for airbrushing. Model Railroader associate editor Cody Grivno shows you how to get your air compressor ready for your next airbrushing project. […]
Adding mundane and non-revenue structures to your layout can enhance the authenticity of a scene, as demonstrated in these two scenes from the author’s Miami-based HO scale CSX Downtown Spur layout. The gray and salmon structure at the center of the top photo is 10th Avenue Tires in Miami. Structure building is one of the […]
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Getting straight cuts is a necessary skill for any modeler. That’s why a good razor saw and miter box are essential tools for any model railroader’s workshop. Senior editor Dana Kawala shows you the basics of using this razor saw/miter box set from […]
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page The Flex-I-File cone-tip sander is a versatile tool for getting into tight corners and odd shapes. Model Railroader associate editor Eric White shows you how he uses the sander and its peel-and-stick pads for his modeling projects. Pick up a sander and a […]
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Model Railroader managing editor David Popp shows how to make waves on modeled water. […]
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page One way to help keep your model railroad running smoothly is to regularly run a cleaning train along the line. Senior Editor Dana Kawala shows you how to make your track cleaning chores easier with a Bachmann HO scale Track Cleaning Car. […]
Click on the link or image to download the article. At first, airbrushing may seem intimidating and difficult, but it really isn’t. Download this article and follow Model Railroader Associate Editor Cody Grivno as he shows you the right techniques to help you get started using an airbrush for your next model train project. Subscribe […]
This view of the Daneville Yard on Pelle Søeborg’s HO scale Union Pacific layout shows a variety of equipment with weathered roofs. He completed all of the weathering with powdered pastels, hobby paints, and an airbrush Years ago, when I became interested in weathering model trains, I found it extremely difficult to find roof photos, […]
This C&O 2-6-6-6 strains mightily to get her 70 loads of eastbound coal moving at Thurmond, W. Va., in 1956. The Balky 1624 had slipped down, then cut off and run ahead to put down sand, and is now trying again. A full third of her tremendous engine weight rests on her lead and trailing […]
