A significant moment in your railroading journey is when you start thinking about your model train layout as more than just pieces of track on a level surface. We previously covered how to build realistic hills and mountains for your layout. And while that allows for elements like tunnels, it also creates space for you …
Continue reading “Up and Over: How to Build a Bridge for Your Model Train Layout”
We’ve talked about model railroad scales, we’ve talked about eras, and we’ve talked about scenery styles. But one crucial question we haven’t yet explored is what type of layout will work best for you? In this article, we”ll explore the pros and cons of three major model railroad designs. The Classic Tabletop Loop Ah, the …
All good model railroads start with a flat plywood base, but unless you happen to be modeling the farmland of the midwest, it will soon become apparent that the real world rarely has this appearance. Hills and mountains are a great way to add scenic interest to your railroad and to develop the believability of …
Continue reading “Moving Mountains: Building Realistic Hills & Mountains for Your Layout”
The Prototype Launched in 2004, the SD70ACe was the 21st Century successor to the SD70MAC. Sporting a now iconic redesigned cab, and capable of producing 4300 horsepower, the SD70ACe was EMD’s answer to General Electric’s highly successful Evolution series. Produced in compliance with the EPA’s Tier 2 emissions standards, the first generation of ACes were …
Continue reading “N Scale ACES: The Broadway Limited Imports SD70ACe”
The Prototype The PRR X58 Boxcar Between 1964 and 1966 the Pennsylvania Railroad embarked on an ambitious project to construct a fleet of new and more modern boxcars to allow older less reliable cars to be withdrawn, while also meeting the expectation of providing a cushioned ride for dry goods. Given the designation of X58, …
Continue reading “Iconic Boxcars in N Scale: The ESM X58 and X72”
One of the oldest brands in model railroading history, Lionel has been a household name for over a century. Look out for the latest arrivals in the new Lionel HO Scale range throughout the coming months!
The Chicago and North Western Railway was in many ways the quintessential midwestern railroad. Operating thousands of miles of trackage primarily serving agricultural customers, the company was also known for its high speed intercity passenger services. At its peak, the railroad was ranked as one of the largest owners of total track mileage in the …
Continue reading “The History of the Chicago and North Western Railway”
With predecessors tracing back to 1830, the Pennsylvania Railroad’s legacy is one of the oldest in the United States, and with more than 10,000 miles of track at it’s peak, the PRR is recognized as one of the greatest business enterprises of the 20th century. Let’s explore the history and legacy of what is perhaps …
Found across the country from small towns to major cities, yards are the beating heart of the railroad. A typical freight yard will often lie at a strategic point in a railroad’s system, usually where multiple routes come together. Here the railroad can switch cars between trains, store equipment while not being used, and service …
Continue reading “5 Tips for Making a Model Train Railroad Yard”
Tracks are arguably the most important component of your scenery. Without them, your trains would have nowhere to go! When attempting a realistic scene however, adding detail to track can easily be overlooked. This is forgivable, as most commercially available track does come molded in generally correct color tones, however when placed into a highly …