Lionel’s model of the Pennsylvania RR’s N5c caboose has been a favorite since it was first added to the catalog in the 1950s. CTT’s Professor Carp details the history of these toy train stalwarts, shows some of the other roadnames and colors in which it was produced, and explains why one variation is worth far […]
In the April 2021 issue of Model Railroader, I wrote about DCC reversing sections. I briefly touched on some automatic reversing section controllers (ARSC) that are available. This month I will focus on ARSCs that do more than just the basic reversing functions. Have no fear, because all ARSCs still work with as few as […]
While David and Co. continue construction on the N scale project layout, Steve Sweeney shares his techniques for assembling a cardstock house kit. Follow along, as Steve walks and talks you through all of the essential tools, supplies, and processes — start to finish! […]
Those little packets of silica gel that come in model train and other boxes are there for a reason – to keep moisture away from your valuable items. Classic Toy Trains Editor Hal Miller tells you how they work and where you can get more if you’ve thrown yours away. […]
The year 1952 was a spectacular one for Lionel operating toy train accessories. An enduring favorite to come out of it was the no. 362 barrel loader. Professor Carp gives the history of the item and discusses changes and variations, while Classic Toy Trains Editor Hal Miller looks at how it operates. You can get […]
Time to turn a flat tabletop into a layout with aesthetically pleasing elevations and undulations. But before David gets too far into cutting plywood, he first talks through a few changes to the N scale track plan. Plus, you’ll also see his clever, easily removable backdrop installation. […]
Most modelers have heard of modular railroading, or even practice it themselves. Modular railroading is an easy and practical way for a hobbyist (be they a beginner or more experienced) to create a mobile, and sometimes more manageable, layout. Modular layouts are built to a set of standards that allows an individual unit to connect […]
Facts & features Name: Brooklyn Terminal Scale: N (1:160) Size: 5′-6″ x 7′-4″ Prototype: Bush Terminal, N.Y. Dock Ry., Fulton Terminal Locale: Brooklyn, N.Y. Era: 1940s Style: island Minium radius: 7″ on Unitram street track, 14″ elsewhere Minimum turnout: no. 3 on Unitram street track, no. 6 elsewhere Maximum grade: none (flat) Benchwork: open grid […]
My garden railroad, the Snake River Railroad, is named after my interest in the Union Pacific. This has been my favorite railroad ever since I saw the Big Boy. The 200 by 300-foot railroad is shaped like a mirror image of Idaho, because of large Ponderosa pines in the backyard. There are two separate […]
The layout at a glance Name: Santa Fe Shortline (SFS) Scale: HO (1:87.1) Size: 7′-0″ x 8′-0″ Prototype: Freelanced Santa Fe shortline Era: April 1961 Style: Island Mainline run: 18 feet Minimum radius: 18″ Minimum turnout: no. 4 Maximum grade: none Benchwork: Plywood base on bookcases Height: 37″ Roadbed: None Track: Atlas Snap-Track Scenery: Sculptamold […]
Thrift stores can hold a wealth of treasures for hobbyists, if you know where to look. I have suggestions of which departments to look for items for your layout. I suggest going into a store with an open mind. For just a few dollars and a maybe a bit of paint, you might find something […]
David and Jenny jump right into the assembly of the removeable, wood legs and braces used to elevate the L-girder benchwork off the ground. Along the way, David shares construction tips and tricks that apply to the construction of any layout – large or small! […]
