Oct 17, Model Railroader Crossroads

This page is dedicated to the Model Railroader Crossroads community for the purpose of sharing information about model railroading.
Oct 14, Railroad Networks of the World

Railroad Networks of the World If you are looking for a prototypical railroad upon which to base your layout design, you may want to consider using a combination of two resources. The first is to locate the railroad network in which you are interested at openrailwaymap.org. There you can see the entire network of your railroad. After that, you can choose particular points along that network and find them on Google Earth so you can zoom in on specific hubs, yards, and surrounding buildings.
Oct 12, How to Make Water with Toilet Paper

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2TwpB7sVMn8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Oct 2, How to Restore an Old Rusted Model Locomotive and Tender

<iframe width="1172" height="659" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vDP1vNspFxs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Oct 1, Awesome Model Steam Locomotives!

<iframe width="1172" height="659" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hv9E3INSgd0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 24, How to Build an HO Module by Dave Frary

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vbzqjRQLHHg" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 22, Model Railroad Track Planning for Interesting Scenery by DJ's Trains

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XWh_dF7yGmI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 20, Model Railroading at MIT

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/STVdCJaG0bY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 19, Jack Burgess on How to Photograph your Layout

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/B_AeXNTKlok" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 18, Consisting with Digitrax and NCE by Larry Pucckett

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s0Ye6QEQJpM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 17, Auto Train

Take a train ride and bring your car with you! <br><iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fYlWBWlS4t0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 15, Southern Pacific Donner Pass Layout Tour

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hLGv99vrF-g" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 14, Interview with Steve Miller of the NMRX on WiFi Signals

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VGSTSK5T20A" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 13, Huge G Scale Layout in a Driveway!

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ghJrQJNJM0A" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 9, Everard Junction Layout Tour

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/23_S0XNL5MI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 8, How to Install the Woodland Scenics Utility System

<iframe width="960" height="540" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nf7wxSGQaLI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 7, An Intermodal Yard that You can Model, by DJ's Trains

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ue55TrUPveY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 6, How to Make Your Own Hot Wire Foam Cutter (by Luke Towan)

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3GWzHb4Hd8Y" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 5, How to Make a Rock Structure with XPS Foam (From Black Magic Craft)

<iframe width="424" height="238" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2Er9Cmznlqg" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 4, How to Cut XPS Foam for Scratchbuilding Projects (from Black Magic Craft)

<iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U8Po8NoM7g4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Sep 1, Tracks-Sept-Oct-2021

This issue of Tracks: Sept-Oct 2021, contains tons of information about model railroading along with lots of pictures and videos.
Aug 16, Model Railroad Classifieds

Have model railroad items to sell? List them here on Model Railroad Classifieds!
Jul 24, MRC Model Railroad Digital Command Control System

MRC Digital Control System with the $78 price tag for my purchase. Will take $40. Email: ray.hatch@ymail.com Text: (713) 884-5248
Jul 24, Bachmann Model Railroad Command Control System

The system is pictured in the attached photos. The box is still wrapped in its original cellophane with the $92 purchase receipt attached. Will take $45.
Jul 3, Using Servos on Your Train Layout

How to use servos for automation on your train layout
Jul 1, Model Railroading Questions and Answers

Answers to questions about model railroading submitted by our readers
Jul 1, Tracks: July-Aug 2021

Now a bimonthly newsletter for all those who enjoy the art and craft of model railroading with new tips, techniques and videos
Jun 26, Model Railroading Video Solutions

A lot of us model railroaders have been trying to create videos of our layouts from the engineer's cab perspective using small security mini-cameras that are difficult to mount onto our locomotives and are very non-prototypical in appearance. So I was excited to discover a new tiny, micro-sized WiFi camera that has been made specifically for us model railroaders with the following features: ~ This camera can fit right in the cab of the locomotive (HO scale or larger), or inside boxcars, or it can operate as a flatcar load. It can be also be hidden inside buildings or in scenery anywhere on your layout. ~ The camera can be powered either from DCC track power or from an onboard backup battery. ~ It can stream live video directly to your web browser or mobile device. ~ You can stream real-time video from your engine cab to remote viewers anywhere in the world with no more than a 1-second delay. ~ Run remote operating sessions. ~ Share layout videos and photos with family, friends, and other model railroaders. ~ Magnetic On/Off - Swipe a magnetic wand over the camera to turn it on or off. Click the link below to learn more...
Jun 17, Thunder and Lightning

I live in Rawlings, VA and just found your website. I am looking for some information about incorporating lightning and thunderstorms in a background setting for an S gauge layout I am starting now. Any assistance would be appreciated. Carlton. <b>Ed.: Thanks for your question! An article in the next issue of <i>Tracks</i> should help answer your question about this and lots of other sound effects that you can use for your layout. Look for it on this blog on July 1, 2021.</b>
Jun 17, Comment on Switchbacks Article

Thanks so much for providing the articles and information about switchbacks and zig zags used in earlier standard and narrow gauge railroads. It may be well worth your while and our fellow readers' interest to speak to the folks at the Great Northern Historical Society and learn more about the Great Northern Railway switchbacks between Skykomish, Washington and Wenatchee, Washington. The water stops and GNRR company towns on Windy mountain and Cowboy mountain at the time were; Skykomish, Scenic, Elba, Nippon, Alpine, Wellington and Cascade Tunnel Station. I think that is the full list of GN company towns on this part of the old route now, but I do not have my map in front of me-its still rolled up in a tube haha. The folks at the Skykomish historical society would be a great source of information too. The 100th anniversary of the Wellington Avalanche 1, march 2010 was commemorated by the descendants of the GN employees and passengers that were on the passenger train that was buried in the avalanche on 1, March 1910. I would like to forward more information to you if possible as quite a debate was created by a retired BNSF executive describing how the old route could still be used for rail traffic with reconstruction of the old route. This would would eliminate the issues of ventilation and tunnel flushing required in the new cascade tunnel since 1956 when the pantograph power for the electric locomotives was ripped out. This was a huge mistake by the Great Northern at the time as all they needed to do was upgrade to larger electric locomotives and sell the old Baldwin electrics to the Pennsylvania RR(which they did) The switches there were used between 1892 and 1929 during the coal and oil-fired steam era with GN company towns that were water stops and the coal stop and upper switching yard at Wellington, Washington The folks at the Skykomish, Washingtom Historical Society would also be a great source of information and help as well. Please keep up the great work you are doing. Leon Edward Zaharis
Jun 17, Question about Curved Viaduct Kits

Question from Jeff:<br> I'm trying to create a portion of the Glenfinnan viaduct in my layout. I've seen the Faller Curved viaduct kit. Does anyone know if the roadbed that that comes with is detachable? Or does anyone know of another curved viaduct kit for sale, preferably one with smooth concrete instead of bricks? Send in your answer on the Comments Page and I will forward it to Jeff...
May 28, My HO train layout

I built an HO train layout on a 6x6 foot section of thick plywood. My layout includes a working silver mine, a southwestern U.S.A.village, a wharf with
May 28, My HO train layout

I used a 6x6 foot section of thick plywood for the base supported by two sawhorses. I bought a cheapo Bachmann train set and an oval track layout. The
May 9, Tracks: May 2021

Tracks Newsletter with information, photos and videos for model railroaders of all ages and all scales
Apr 27, Essential Considerations in Designing a Custom Model Railroad

Things to consider when designing a custom model railroad
Apr 7, Tracks: April 2021

The April issue of Tracks is once again full of model railroading information, pictures and videos for all ages and all scales.
Apr 1, Caboose Diorama

I built a diorama (16 x 12) of a pond and an abandoned caboose entering a tunnel. I touched up the caboose with streaks of gray and rust-colored paint
Apr 1, Cape Cod Harbor Diorama

I built a diorama of a Cape Cod harbor with a sand dune,piers,buildings,and various sized boats(hand carved kayaks,row boats,motor boats,and a fishing
Apr 1, Caboose Diorama

Abandoned Caboose diorama with a pond and people camping out on the pond.
Mar 10, help with finding brand of building kit

Hi Just getting back into Model Railroading after a long break. Digging out my old stuff I found this Service Station Model brand new, still with plastic
Mar 6, Traffic Signals for Your Model Railroad Layout

How to install traffic signals on your model railroad layout.
Mar 3, 3D Printing

3D printing is a great way to create unique 3D models or parts for your miniature model railroad in any scale.
Mar 1, Tracks: March 2021

This issue of Tracks is once again chock full of news, information, tips and videos all about model railroading and railfanning.
Feb 28, Wiring Railroad Signals

Wiring railroad signals is a somewhat mysterious aspect of model railroading. A simple wiring method is described here for manual operation. References provided for automatic operation.
Feb 24, Maintenance of Way (MOW) Railroad Equipment

MOW, or maintenance of way, equipment is an important part of any prototypical railroad, and can be incorporated into any model railroad layout to enhance realism and operations.
Feb 17, Trolley Layout

Building a trolley layout is another facet of this wonderful hobby that can provide loads of enjoyment for the young and old alike. Here's how to get started.
Feb 8, Tracks Model Railroad Newsletter

The February 2021 issue of Tracks contains a ton of useful information all about building and managing your model railroad.
Jan 26, Digitrax DS64 Stationary Decoders

Two new Digitrax DS64 stationary decoders. I bought these about 5 years ago for a project that was delayed. Upon restarting the project I decided not to
Jan 26, Layout Surface: Plywood or Foam?

Q: I am planning a 4X6ft. N scale RR. I plan to use a 4X6ft. piece of plywood. I want to nail the track to a cork sub roadbed. What advantage does foam have? Thanks. A: The main reason I like to use foam pads as a layout surface is that if you want to dig out a creek, a lake or a ravine, it is much easier to do that if the surface is foam rather than plywood. It’s also helpful if you want to put a magnet under your track to use for uncoupling. A third reason is that it is easier to manage wiring. You can run wires easily through the middle of a foam pad to the side of your layout where your turnout switches or control panel might be located, or to run wires for an new light fixture that you want to put in the middle of your layout. Fourth, you can more easily embed a structure into foam so that you don’t have the foundation of your structure hovering over the surface of the layout. It’s also easier to plant trees in foam than in plywood. Foam is quieter than plywood when running trains. I also think that nailing the track down to plywood doesn’t allow for expansion and/or contraction of the track as the temperature and humidity change throughout the different seasons. So after a few years, you might find your track buckling a little. You still need the plywood under the foam pad for a good, steady layout surface, but for all the reasons above, I like foam pads on the top.
Jan 16, Small N Scale Train Layout

Step-by-step creation of a small N Scale model train layout - A great way to get started, or if you just want to take a break from the big layout.
Jan 12, Custom Train Hobby Table

Custom Train Table Solid Wood 8x10' 2x3' (removable middle) In northern Cincinnati area, pick up only. $100 OBO
Jan 11, How to Get Locomotive Sound on a DC Analog Layout

Question about How to Get Sound on DC Layouts: I have an analog layout... If I buy an N scale loco with onboard sound will the sound work on the track? Answer: The answer is YES, but not with a regular DC transformer. You will have to purchase a special DC transformer that has this capability. It is made by Model Rectifier Corp, called MRC Tech 6. It can operate DCC sound-decoder-equipped locomotives on analog track with all the usual DCC functions including the ability to change CVs and programming of the decoders. Here is a video explaining its capabilities. https://youtu.be/NW6ZAA02-Qc Another option would be to just switch over to DCC with a Digitrax Zephyr or NCE starter system. These can operate both DC (using “00” as the code) and DCC locomotives.
Jan 3, Tracks: January 2021

Tracks - a model railroad newsletter with lots of great tips and tricks on how to build your own model railroad.

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