Lionel’s no. 397 coal loader

Man at a desk with toy train accessory

Lionel’s no. 397 coal loader In 1948, Lionel introduced a new coal loader that needed just one track and a dump car to run. Senior Editor Roger Carp explains the history of this coal loader, what was included in the box with your purchase, and how it changed over the years. He explains what makes […]

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Where can you find out of production parts?

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Cody Grivno answers the question about finding out of production parts for a Roundhouse Ready-to-Roll HOn3 2-Truck Shay. If you’re looking for old parts or models, or you want to learn more about full trains, send us an email: AskTrains@trains.com. And if you have other sources for Pete to find gears for his Roundhouse Shay, […]

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Lionel Legacy Boston & Maine No. 801 SW8 locomotive

Lionel SW8 switcher locomotive

Lionel Legacy SW8 locomotive Lionel has released an SW8 switcher locomotive in its Legacy line. Classic Toy Trains editor Hal Miller gives you a first look at this engine, which is loaded with extra details like a fan-driven smoke unit, operating couplers, unique number boards, a bell, a single smokestack, two horns, and so much […]

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Back on Track: Fixing an upper deck design flaw, Episode 14

What’s our Back on Track series host Gerry Leone up to these days? More work on the upper deck of his new HO scale Bona Vista layout, of course! Following the previous episode, Gerry finalized more of the track plan, added plywood subroadbed to the upper level, and even laid some track into place. But […]

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Back on Track: Fixing an upper deck design flaw, Episode 14

What’s our Back on Track series host Gerry Leone up to these days? More work on the upper deck of his new HO scale Bona Vista layout, of course! Following the previous episode, Gerry finalized more of the track plan, added plywood subroadbed to the upper level, and even laid some track into place. But […]

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What was the name of that railroad?

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Cody Grivno explains where to find the information on railroads. Take a peak at the The Historical Guide to North American Railroads. This book can answer your question! You can order a copy of the Historical Guide to North American Railroads Third Edition at the Kalmbach Hobby Store website. KalmbachHobbyStore.com Do you have more questions […]

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