Ask Trains.com June 2024 compilation | Our host Cody Grivno, along with an assist from Trains magazine associate editor Bob Lettenberger, to addresses a wide array of modeling and prototype railroading questions. In this edition he’ll provide insights about the schedule and frequency of trains appearing on the Trains.com webcam at Rochelle, Ill.; how to remove factory-applied lettering from locomotive tender; what names and numbers were used to identify the trains operating over Milwaukee Road’s “Beer Line” route; and so much more!
Are you looking to learn more about your model railroad, or do you have questions about full-size trains? We’d love to hear from you! Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com, or leave a question in the comment section below. We’d love to hear from you!
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Ask Trains.com is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where editors answer the questions readers and viewers are asking.
Special guests can include editors and contributors from Model Railroader, Trains, Classic Toy Trains, Garden Railways and Trains.com.
Questions can be about any railroad or model railroading topic, including on the fan configuration on an SD45. These can include questions about railroad operating practices, railroad lantern manufacturer details, model locomotive details, and toy train transformers, among others.
Trains.com and Model Railroader Senior Editor Cody Grivno works through many of these questions, which are posted twice a week, each week, all year! See all our answers to questions online!
Hi Cody, a question about cardstock buildings. I have a number of cardstock buildings on my Z-Scale layout with impressive detail. However, I am slightly concerned about their longevity compared to other materials, particularly moisture and humidity exposure over time. Are there any recommendations to help seal and preserve such models?
Thanks for answering my question, Cody.
Hi Cody, In response to the inquiry about adding or extending downspouts, I use K&S 3/64 Brass Rod to make downspouts in HO scale. At $5 or less per pack (at Hobby Lobby and others), one can make many downspouts of any length or configuration. The only caveat is you have to (carefully) use CA to attach it to plastic buildings or gutters.