How-to Library: Operating with Fleischmann Roco Z21 Control System

MR Senior Editor Dana Kawa shows how to install and prepare a Fleischmann Roco Z21 control system.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Follow along with MR Senior Editor Dana Kawala as he shows how to install and prepare a Fleischmann Roco Z21 control system for use operating DCC-equipped locomotives on an HO scale layout. […]

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Let’s Make A Scene: Episode 11

Let’s Make a Scene with Kathy Millatt Part 11

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page MRVP’s Kathy Millatt shifts her focus to making a snow-covered patch of grass along the railroad right-of-way on her HO scale (1:87.1) diorama. Follow along to see her techniques for crafting this realistic, frosty scenery accent! […]

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How-to Library: Turning Spaces into Places, Part 4

Man standing next to multi-level train layout.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page   In Part 4, Gerry Leone really starts to cover some ground… or in this case, pink foam insulation board! Watch and learn how easy it is to transform stark construction materials into a natural-looking setting. […]

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Ron Hoess’ Eastbound Chestnut Hill & Stifftown Branch PRR

Scene of model train layout

This HO scale layout (13′ x 18′) is a point-to-point switching layout that depicts the Stifftown Branch and the first portion of the Chestnut Hill Branch of the PRR. The setting is North Philadelphia circa 1958. Since this is a prototype layout, all of the structures are scratchbuilt to better match the prototype. Key signature […]

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No. 119, meet SD70ACe

Freshly painted locomotive in red and gold colors.

What could be: See how Trains Art Director Tom Danneman added — layer by layer — the various color, striping, and artwork to his photo of a Montana Rail Link SD70ACe, creating a commemorative paint scheme for Union Pacific’s celebration of the 150th anniversary of the transcontinental railroad. The imaginary paint scheme pays tribute to […]

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How-to Library: Arduinos in Model Railroading – Part 3 Use servos to save your trains

Gerry Leone holing up a servo

In part 3 of this MRVP mini-series, Gerry Leone resumes his helpful instructions for working with an Arduino. This time Gerry shows how he harnessed their usefulness to solve a problem on his HO scale layout. Turns out the tiny devices really are powerful enough to stop a train in its tracks…or from flying off […]

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