In the first lesson, expert instructor David Popp gets things rolling with the basics of kit building. He‘ll primarily use a boxcar kit for reference, but you’ll also gain additional insights by working on a gondola kit in future lessons. Class begins by covering the necessary tools, including a hobby knife, sanding sticks, a small Phillips-head screwdriver, sprue cutters, and microbrushes. David also discuss essential supplies like plastic bonding glue and spray paint/primer.
The lesson provides step-by-step instructions on a number of tasks. You’ll learn how to clean the oily, stamped steel weight that comes with the kit using isopropyl alcohol. David also demonstrates how to remove plastic nubs and flash from the underframe and doors using a hobby knife and sprue cutters. Finally, you’ll learn how to assemble the brake assembly, coupler, and trucks, including a proven pro tip on how to ensure one truck has side-to-side play for reliable operation on uneven track!
For model railroaders of varying skills and any scale, class is now in session — streaming exclusively on Trains.com Video!
I wish manufactures would sell kits for their detailed RTR offerings. I started in the hobby about 60 years ago with my dad. We had so much fun putting them together and then watching them run. I still buy some Accurail kits and have tried a few Scaletrains, however if you want detail you need to find aftermarket parts to do the job.
I remember buying my first RTR car at Red Board hobby with my young son. I remember the owner Paul telling me, that is the future for model trains. I seldom buy any of the new very detailed RTR cars anymore because to make a unit train cost wise is out of my ballpark.
Thanks much
Everyone with Trains.com are awesome people!