This January 2026 episode of Cody’s Office is packed with new products, a helpful modeling tip, and answers to viewer mail questions. Senior Editor Cody Grivno begins by showcasing a Rapido Trains HO scale Trenton Works 6637 combination-door boxcar, priced at $39.95 to $49.95. Next, he spotlights an Atlas N scale GE U33B diesel locomotive, retailing at $159.95 for DC and $274.95 for sound-equipped models. Finally, he reviews Tony Koester’s new Firecrown/Model Railroader book, Guide to Modeling Branch Lines, now available at shop.trains.com.
For the modeling tip, Cody demonstrates simple techniques for weathering couplers, wheels, and louvers to achieve a more prototypical looking locomotive. In the viewer mail segment, he addresses questions regarding Arduino resources, wood stains, and improving N scale locomotive pulling capacity.
Do you have questions you’d like us to consider for a future episode of Cody’s Office? You may leave them in the comments field below or contact us via e-mail at asktrains@trains.com.
