In this episode of the HO scale East Troy Industrial Park project railroad construction series, David Popp and Cody Grivno tackle various scenery challenges. First, learn how to pour a second layer of resin to yield a more realistic water feature. Then, discover kitbashing techniques for the Central Ink facility. The hosts also demonstrate how […]
In this episode of the HO scale East Troy Industrial Park project railroad construction series, David Popp demonstrates how to transform natural Super Trees into convincing scale vegetation. You’ll master the essential preparation process: cleaning delicate branches, grafting parts to fill sparse areas, and using a matte medium solution to prevent long-term degradation. We’ll also […]
BOSTON — The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority has issued a Request for Proposals for battery-electric and Tier 4 diesel locomotives as part of its efforts to modernize its equipment fleet and upgrade regional rail service. The RFP, released today (Feb. 25) and available here, is part of a procurement coordinated with the Maryland Transit Administration. […]
Though I’ve been in the hobby for more than 70 years, I’m still amazed at the number of new products being released. Gone are the days when the Lionel or American Flyer “wish books” would fill our dreams of new engines, cars, or accessories. Now we have the internet, hobby shops, and train shows to […]
Follow David Popp, as he works to add essential scenery to the HO scale (1:87) East Troy Industrial Park project! Learn how to protect detailed strip wood with masking tape before pouring a custom passenger platform. And then explore helpful tips and tricks for applying Woodland Scenics Smooth-It, tinted with slate gray pigment to mimic asphalt. […]
SUISUN CITY, Calif. — The Western Railway Museum is currently evaluating Kennecott Copper No. 407, a rare GE 125-ton center cab electric locomotive, to ascertain if it can be returned to operation. “Based on our initial inspection and the work completed over the last two weekends, 407 is shaping up to be a very solid […]
Rivers and industries take center stage on the HO scale East Troy Industrial Park layout! This episode, David Popp dives into scenery by pouring a murky resin river for an authentic, deep-water appearance. You’ll also learn the math (I was told there would be no math) behind calculating resin volume for irregular shapes. Finally, we […]
Amtrak E60CH 966 on the Washington-bound Murray Hill has become disabled just south of Bowie, Md., on March 26, 1976. Sent out to rescue the one-year-old motor is Penn Central GG1 4885 — a 37-year veteran of the Northeast Corridor. Ray Brubacker photo […]
Back for more on the East Troy! This episode drills into the details that help bring a layout to life. Watch as the Trains.com crew populates the roads with weathered vehicles and hand-painted signs. They also enhance the depot using prototype-inspired heralds and a unique historical marker crafted from railroad track. Finally, you’ll see how […]
Welcome back to the East Troy Industrial Park—this episode focuses on station scenery and track maintenance. Watch as we repair an overlooked gap in the rails using a custom-filed piece of track and soldering techniques. Then, follow the construction of a museum depot platform using stained strip wood and styrene. Finally, see how we prep […]
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Two Alco FPA4 locomotives at the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad will be converted to electric power in a $3.5 million project announced Monday by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. The partnership between the railroad and Ohio EPA will see the state agency provide $2.1 million in federal funding allocated to the state […]
It’s my pleasure to tell you, our devoted readers of Classic Toy Trains, about our brand-new colorful and informative 100-page special-interest publication: Great Layouts You Can Visit! Packed with photos and filled with stories and details, it offers toy train enthusiasts of every age, background, and level of interest and experience something enjoyable and useful. […]
