Olympia Logging Series: Part 40 – Layout operation

David Popp show’s you that it really is possible to perform prototypical operations on a layout as simple as our Olympia Logging Co. On30 display. Follow along as he first explains the scheme, makes the essential preparations, and then demonstrates how fun and easy it is to get the layout working like a real railroad […]

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DCC Programming: episode 13 – Basics of Back EMF

Dana Kawala explainng Back-Electro-Motive-Force (Back EMF) control.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page   In this episode of DCC Programming, host Dana Kawala explains Back-Electro-Motive-Force (Back EMF) control and how it functions to aid performance on DCC-equipped locomotives. Dana demonstrates how this “cruise control” can be set and adjusted based on some specific ways you might […]

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The Roundhouse: Episode 22

Hal Miller and Tony Koester

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page In this “single-stall” edition of The Roundhouse, host Hal Miller welcomes Model Railroader magazine contributing editor Tony Koester to the table to chat about this friend, pioneering model railroader Allen McClelland, and his multiple Virginian & Ohio HO scale layouts. Although Allen no […]

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Rehab My Railroad: Episode 5

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page The Rehab crew returns to Chuck Sable’s basement to take on his toughest layout challenge yet. Chuck and David Popp start in on a street lighting project, but quickly get sidetracked troubleshooting a pesky DCC issue. Cody “Two Brat” Grivno keeps his head […]

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Building the 3 x 7 Red Oak N scale model railroad part 4

Steve Otte next to layout

The Model Railroader staff’s N scale Red Oak layout features many interesting structures built from wood and plastic kits. Associate editor Steve Otte shows some of the structure highlights on the layout and provides some painting tips. Editor Neil Besougloff also plugs in a power pack and runs the Zephyr passenger train to test out […]

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The Roundhouse: Episode 13

Hal Miller, Dana Kawala, and Bob Keller

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Host Hal Miller welcomes MR’s Dana Kawala and Bob Keller from Classic Toy Trains on this special Christmas episode of The Roundhouse. These three wise men talk about the best and worst train-related gifts, and even take up the 2-rail vs. 3-rail debate. […]

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Rehab My Railroad: Episode 4

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page In this episode of Rehab My Railroad, MR’s Cody Grivno shows layout owner Chuck Sable how to enhance an open lot by adding a realistic grass mat and fence. Cody makes more improvements to the station parking lot too. Meanwhile, MRVP’s David Popp […]

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Building the 3 x 7 Red Oak model railroad episode 2

Hand measuring off track section

The benchwork is built for the Model Railroader staff’s N scale Red Oak project. Next comes the tricky task of transferring the track plan to the foam tabletop. Get some tips from Model Railroader Video Plus producer David Popp, including a look at the layout’s styrene backdrop and the wiring channel around the tabletop. […]

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