A visit to Len Smith’s O gauge Reading layout

Len Smith's layout and the cover of the November 2021 Classic Toy Trains

Take a ride on Len Smith’s O gauge Reading RR featured in the November 2021 issue of Classic Toy Trains. Modern locomotives and rolling stock plus great scenery make this layout a terrific tribute to his favorite fallen flag. Have a look at the track plan here. […]

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Convert a large-scale LGB passenger car into a dining car

Model figures in a dining car

By Frederic Williams Rohm and Brian Michelson I grew up in central Pennsylvania where my family had been long-time residents. My garden railroad is based on the Pennsylvania Railroad circa 1900; my grandfather and uncles worked on the PRR. The premier Pennsy passenger train of this era was the Pennsylvania Limited, which began making the […]

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DOT seeks to suspend rule on LNG by Rail

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation is proposing to suspend a rule allowing movement of liquefied natural gas by rail while it considers potential modifications to the rule. In a notice of proposed rulemaking published Monday in the Federal Register, the DOT’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration says it would suspend the rule […]

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Metrorail testing plan approved, but reduced service will continue through November

WMATA (DC Metro) logo

WASHINGTON — The independent Washington Metrorail Safety Commission has approved a plan for testing and returning DC Metrorail’s newest railcars to service, but the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority will still face reduced levels of service through at least the remainder of November. The Washington Post reports the safety commission’s approval means Metro will begin […]

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Testing plan submitted for sidelined Metrorail cars

WMATA (DC Metro) logo

WASHINGTON — The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority has submitted a testing plan for returning its 7000-series Metrorail cars to operation to address its current equipment shortage. The Washington Post reports the plan submitted to the independent Washington Metrorail Safety Commission would call for checking the cars every eight days for a wheel defect that […]

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Getting the most out of your overnight Amtrak trip

Objects in Amtrak roomette including computer, cellphone, schedule

In the not-too-distant past, Amtrak provided route guides and timetables with a wealth of information about not only sights and points of interest along its routes, but also what to expect on each train: Is there checked baggage service? Are pillows available for coach passengers? What kind of dining options are offered? Through 2017, Amtrak […]

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Lionel Area 51 set a spooky and fun train

Chris Raines with Lionel Area 51 set

Get a look at the Lionel Area 51 set (no. 2123160)! Chris Raines of RBP Trains on YouTube reviews this spooky and fun O gauge train outfit. First is a close look at the GE “ET44” Tier 4 Bluetooth-controlled locomotive and the array of cars. Then Chris takes it for a spin on his great […]

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Lionel Area 51 set a spooky and fun train

Chris Raines with Lionel Area 51 set

Get a look at the Lionel Area 51 set (no. 2123160)! Chris Raines of RBP Trains on YouTube reviews this spooky and fun O gauge train outfit. First is a close look at the GE “ET44” Tier 4 Bluetooth-controlled locomotive and the array of cars. Then Chris takes it for a spin on his great […]

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Wabtec wins contract for Metra car components

Rendering of new commuter rail cars

PITTSBURGH — Wabtec will supply components for a Metra order for new passenger cars, the company announced today. Included are brakes; passenger doors; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; and event recorders. The 200-car order for new bilevel cars is being built by Alstom under a contract approved by the Metra board earlier this […]

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Improperly adjusted bolts led to Ottawa light rail derailment

Red and white light rail train

OTTAWA — Improperly adjusted bolts led to the Sept. 19 derailment that has shut down Ottawa’s O-Train Confederation Line, according to a Wednesday report to the city’s transit commission. CTV News reports Rideau Transit Group, which has the operating and maintenance contract for the Confederation Line, said improperly torqued bolts on the train’s gearbox were […]

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