Working with suitcase connectors | While also known as insulation displacement connectors, the name “suitcase connector” is a more common term used to describe one the most helpful fasteners in all of model railroading. These plastic cases include a conductive metal blade used to bridge (electrically) two press-fit wires. Let David show you how to […]
Track selection and tracklaying insights | Join David, as he first surveys a wide array of flexible trackwork offerings, and then shares helpful tips and tricks for properly preparing and installing sections of flex track on your next model railroad! Be sure to find other helpful videos like this in the How-to category on Trains.com […]
Installing roadbed at turnouts | Watch and learn how to lay cork roadbed material under track switches of any scale or gauge. Follow along with David’s helpful tips and tricks, and you’ll be well under way to providing a smooth and level base for under the most critical locations of your model railroad trackwork! Be […]
Choosing roadbed | While adding track to your subroadbed layout base is an possible, you’ll want to consider installing an additional, more realistic layer of material specifically designed to support and secure your trackwork. Follow along as David shares various roadbed options that can be used across layouts of all sizes and scales! Be sure […]
Evaluating subroadbed options| When it comes to building a new model railroad, the foundation you use to support your trackwork and scenery is especially important. Taking numerous factors under consideration (e.g., cost, easy of use, durability, etc.), expert layout builder David Popp shares info and insights you need to know before making your choice! You […]
Determining reasonable reach | David Popp shows you how to establish the most reasonable depth — distance from front edge to backdrop — for a model railroad. Along the way, he’ll share helpful measurements and practical insights for keeping your layout functional and fun to run! You can learn more about benchwork construction in the […]
Building L-girders| Watch and learn as David Popp demonstrates how to assemble one of the most essential and versatile components of a model railroad! You can learn more about benchwork construction in the East Troy Industrial Park project layout video, “Building a frame”. Plus, you’ll want to be sure to find other helpful videos like […]
Adjusting leg height| In instances where the floor isn’t quite as flat as it looks, David Popp shows how to install adjustable feet or glides on layout legs…and then use them to level out any troublesome height discrepancies across your model railroad! You can also read about this technique in the Trains.com article, “How to […]
Selecting lumber for your layout| With a wide array of wood grades available at major home improvement centers, it’s important to know what works best verses what is the most economical. Making the wrong choice of lumber can lead to issues in benchwork construction…and even in trackwork, scenery, and layout operation too! No worries. David […]
Rotary tool cutoff techniques | Trains.com Director David Popp demonstrates how a rotary motor tool can be used for a variety of applications when building model railroad benchwork. In this instance, David shares how a rotary tool and a cutoff disk make quick work of errant nails protruding from wood frame components. You can also […]
Replacing a circular saw blade| In this instance, David Popp shows Bryson Sleppy how installing a new, sharp blade yields clean, smooth edges when cutting benchwork components. Putting safety first, David shares the proper process, along with insights for maintaining a saw for years of reliable use! You can also read about this technique in […]
Here’s how you can make a billboard, poster, or wall sign from an AI-generated image for your model railroad layout. Artificial intelligence generators have been in the news lately as writers, artists, and other creative types debate the possibility of computers taking over their jobs. Although AI-generated art is not good enough yet to replace […]
