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Jan 29, How to Install a DCC Decoder in an N Scale Locomotive

Installing a DCC decoder in an N Scale locomotive can open up a world of possibilities when it comes to customizing your model railway. With a Digital Command Control (DCC) decoder, you’ll be able to control the speed, direction, and lighting of your locomotives with precision accuracy. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to install a DCC decoder in an N Scale locomotive. Before you begin installing the decoder, it’s important to make sure that you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. You will need: an insulated Phillips-head screwdriver; tools for removing screws from the locomotive shell; needle nose pliers; soldering equipment including wire clippers and solder; flathead screwdrivers in various sizes; and Model Railroading DCC Decoder Installation instructions. Once you have all the necessary tools and materials ready to go, the next step is to remove the body shell from your N Scale locomotive. This can typically be done by unscrewing four or five screws around the perimeter of the body shell. Once this is done, locate the motor as well as any existing wiring harnesses that are connected to it. Carefully disconnect any wires by using needle nose pliers to release them from their connectors. Now that everything is disconnected, it’s time to install the DCC decoder into your N Scale locomotive. Begin by connecting one end of your new wiring harness into place on top of the motor. Then connect the other end of your new wiring harness onto your chosen DCC decoder - making sure all connections are secure before proceeding further. Use soldering equipment to attach each wire from both ends of your wiring harness onto specific terminal points on each side of your DCC decoder - making sure that you refer back to Model Railroading DCC Decoder Installation instructions if needed for exact details on where each connection should go. When everything has been connected properly and securely, use flathead screwdrivers in various sizes depending on which type of mounting option you wish to use when reattaching your body shell - ensuring that all screws are tightened securely before proceeding further with testing out how well everything works! Finally, once everything is installed correctly and securely, refer back to Model Railroading DCC Decoder Installation instructions one last time so as to program any desired settings into memory such as speeds and lighting effects etc., in order for these settings now being programmed into memory actually take effect once powered up via track power later on! With that said, installing a Digital Command Control (DCC)decoder in an N Scale locomotive can greatly expand upon what kind of customizations are now possible - allowing for maximum control over speed & direction along with lighting effects etc., offering many more possibilities when it comes customizing your locomotive operation.
Jan 4, Model Railroading as a Community Service

Improving the world, one community at a time.
Jan 1, Tracks: January 2023

2023 New Year's Edition of Tracks, a favorite newsletter for beginners and experts.
Dec 24, Merry Christmas!!

<img src = "https://www.building-your-model-railroad.com/images/Christmas-Train-001.jpeg"> To all who love Christmas and Trains and to all their families and friends, Merry Christmas, and may the Joy and the Spirit of the Season be upon you all, now and throughout the New Year!
Dec 22, Troubleshooting Your Model Railroad

Troubleshooting your model railroad is just as much a part of model railroading as building the train layout. There will always be something that needs fixing.
Dec 22, Trains & Christmas

<a href="https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/graphics/2022/12/21/model-train-christmas-tree-tradition/10924021002/" target="_blank">The tradition lives on...</a>
Dec 11, New RSS Board for Model Railroading

If you like to use RSS feeds to keep up to date on all topics related to model railroading, here is a link to one that we set up... <a href="https://feedly.com/i/board/content/user/b7c7041f-162d-4163-b076-9b28c946d42f/tag/899f3df5-ddc4-41fe-96ac-5582c5ef6746" target="_blank">https://feedly.com/i/board/content/user/b7c7041f-162d-4163-b076-9b28c946d42f/tag/899f3df5-ddc4-41fe-96ac-5582c5ef6746</a> Just copy this link into your favorite RSS reader and enjoy the updates.
Dec 11, Looking for MTH service or repair?

Check out the website at <a href="https://coltrains.com/"target="_blank">https://coltrains.com/</a> (Central Operating Lines Model Railroad Club)
Dec 11, Great Idea for Trains around the Christmas Tree!

<iframe width="696" height="392" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kHWN5CWzLS8" title="Lionel trains Christmas layout TOUR and MORE!!" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Dec 9, Model Railroad in Winter - Part 2

<iframe width="1128" height="635" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/69nst2ondQw" title="The Winter Snow Scene Part Two "Model Trains"" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Dec 9, Model Railroad in Winter

<iframe width="1128" height="635" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mY0bZQSC6kg" title="The Winter Snow Scene Train Run "Model Trains"" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Dec 5, Model Railroading Questions and Answers

Answers to questions about model railroading submitted by our readers
Dec 3, Tracks: December 2022

Tracks is a free model railroad newsletter containing lots of tips, tricks and techniques to help you in building your model railroad.
Nov 24, Happy Thanksgiving!!

Thanks to all the model railroaders and other visitors who make this site possible. Best wishes to all for a very happy and joyful Holiday Season!
Nov 13, 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
Nov 13, 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.
Aug 22, Lionel Miscellaneous

I have miscellaneous Lionel trains and accessories that I would like to sell. You can view more photos at www.EastHarbor.net/trains.pdf Please call or
May 19, Advertise

Advertise your model railroad products on this site. Learn more on this page.
May 18, Relay Switch

Relay switch - What does it do and how do you wire it?
Mar 1, Tracks: March-April 2022

A model railroad newsletter published by Building Your Model Railroad containing lots of tips, tricks and short articles related to model railroading.
Jan 14, MOW on Donner Pass

<iframe width="1070" height="602" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RjBQ3MaBYiU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Jan 2, Tracks January - February 2022

Tracks is a model railroading newsletter full of tips and techniques to help you learn more about America's favorite hobby.
Dec 27, One of the Largest Model Railroads in the U.S.

<iframe width="1070" height="602" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LRkygUYxRRo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Nov 5, Tracks November-December 2021

This issue of Tracks celebrates November as Model Railroading Month and encourages all model railroaders to spread the word about the world's greatest hobby.
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 3, Using Servos on Your Train Layout

How to use servos for automation on your train layout
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...