Q: I have an older Atlas HO scale GP7 that has developed a whirring sound in one of its gear towers when it runs in reverse (long hood forward). I’m guessing this sound may be caused by a lack of lubricant in the gear tower, or perhaps that the lubricant has dried out. Do you concur […]
Steve King wants to know where to find information about changing couplers or making compatible cars from other manufacturers. Cody Grivno is in the studio to share resources. […]
John Martin has seen gondolas with Fiberglas hoods, and he wants to know what they’re transporting. Those cars also roll through Model Railroader’s hometown. Cody Grivno offers some ideas on what those gondolas are carrying. […]
James Dudzik is looking for the name of the green used on locomotive cab and caboose interiors. Well, it actually goes by a few different names, as Cody Grivno explains in this episode of AskTrains.com. […]
Q: I have two HO scale steam engines that both have the same problem. Their front trucks are always derailing. They are very light. Do you have any ideas how to fix this? – Ted Zieger A: Your locomotives’ front trucks should want to stay on the track of their own accords. If they’re derailing, […]
Eric Schrowang wants to know where locomotive crews go to the bathroom. Cody Grivno shows where chemical retention toilets are located on cab and hood units. […]
Rick Bowers wants to know the advantages and disadvantages of Belpair fireboxes. Steve Sweeney uses magazine articles and prototype photos to answer Rick’s question. […]
Seven operating session tips will help model railroaders step back from, or maybe step into, their layout by sharing the experience with others. For starters, operation gives a model railroad purpose. A layout compares with a theater’s stage, its props the scenery and rolling stock. In an operating session, this stage springs to life, re-creating […]
Q: What is dynamic braking on trains? – Mark Kroll A: Unlike a typical diesel-powered car or truck, a diesel locomotive doesn’t have a direct mechanical linkage between its diesel engine and its wheels. These locomotives are more properly called diesel-electrics. Rather than turning a driveshaft that drives the wheels, the engine (or “prime mover”) […]
Looking for a budget Christmas train layout? Look no further. Classic Toy Trains Production Editor Rene Schweitzer and Digital Editor Steve Sweeney sort through garland, tinsel, ceramic buildings, and LED lights and more from Menards worth about $60. Watch them craft or place each piece for a winter-themed layout in less time than it takes […]
Anthony Rebaldo would like to know where he can find information on Casey Jones, a historical railroad engineer who died in a train collision. Steve Sweeney has some resources to check out. […]
Q: After building a train table with a plywood top, I plan to put down pink extruded-foam insulation board sheets to help keep down the noise. What would you suggest as an affordable option to put over the foam board for appearance purposes? Secondly, if I want to screw or nail anything to the layout, […]
