Ask Trains.com July 2023 compilation part one

Ask Trains.com July compilation part one: An image of a man standing alongside a model railroad layout

Ask Trains.com July 2023 compilation part one: Cody Grivno discusses scratchbuilding HO scale crossing gates, graffiti on MR&T freight cars, and answers more viewer questions! Are you looking to learn more about your model railroad, or do you have questions about full-size trains? We’d love to hear from you! Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com, […]

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Norfolk & Western 611 Update

After almost twenty years on static display at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke, Va., Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 returned to operation in 2015.  Her time on the mainline was very brief though, lasting only three years.  Since then, new venues have been needed to operate the large engine.  Let’s get […]

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An autumn O gauge layout

autumn o gauge layout by Walt Urban

O gauge modeler Walt Urban created a medium-size three-rail empire with an autumn theme. Colorful trees on the mountains suggest fall has arrived along the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S., with postwar and modern Lionel trains to enjoy in beautiful settings. See it in the September-October 2023 issue. […]

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The Hills Line with James McNab | Goals, givens and druthers, Episode 13

In this episode of The Hills Line, host James McNab is making plans to build a portable layout that complements his HO scale Hills Line layout. He explains where the idea came from and sorts out the goals, givens and druthers that go along with this project. […]

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The MTH VO1000 diesel is a solid switcher

MTH VO1000 diesel

The MTH VO1000 diesel is a  good-running, heavy, and well detailed model of the Baldwin switcher. The latest run features Protosound 3.0 with freight sound effects, LED lighting, and a fan-driven smoke unit. In addition to the four road names produced by the manufacturer, there have also been several other special runs commissioned. Read more […]

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Installing abandoned tracks

In the course of building the HO scale Freemont Mills model railroad, Steve Otte shares his technique for adding a realistic representation of abandoned tracks. After gathering the essential materials – stained wooded ties, masking tape, and a spacing jig – Steve demonstrates the complete process, including how to add subtle scenery effects that help […]

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Installing abandoned tracks

In the course of building the HO scale Freemont Mills model railroad, Steve Otte shares his technique for adding a realistic representation of abandoned tracks. After gathering the essential materials – stained wooded ties, masking tape, and a spacing jig – Steve demonstrates the complete process, including how to add subtle scenery effects that help […]

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Meet Bob Lettenberger, Trains Magazine Associate Editor

In this latest installment of Q&A with the Editors, you’ll get to meet Bob Lettenberger! Perhaps you’ll place his name amongst the most enthusiastic promoters of railroad history. Maybe you’ve even viewed him hosting the Trains LIVE show, as streamed exclusively on Trains.com. But here, you’ll get to learn the full backstory on how Bob […]

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