Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Full Disclosure: It is not May, and this is not the Big Birthday Bash III, part 2! So what is it? More of Gerry, and more great suggestions for clever layout construction, maintenance, and modeling tips! […]
Modeling Topic: DCC & Wiring
Off The Rails: Episode 39
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Full Disclosure: It is not May, and this is not the Big Birthday Bash III, part 2! So what is it? More of Gerry, and more great suggestions for clever layout construction, maintenance, and modeling tips! […]
DCC boosters for a model railroad – what to buy and how many
❶ Getting a boost. The Digitrax DB210 booster can supply 3, 5, or 8 amps depending on the power supply used with it. Note the toggle switch for selecting from three possible voltage ranges for N, HO, and O/G scales. ❷ Keeping cool. The Model Rectifier Corp. boosters are available in 3.5 and 8 amp […]
Digital Command Control resources for model railroaders
Learn all about Digital Command Control (DCC) with the Model Railroader staff! Bill Zuback The July 2019 issue of Model Railroader magazine features a buyer’s guide for Digital Command Control (DCC) starter systems. To learn more about DCC, check out this DCC resources page. Below you’ll find links to reference articles, product reviews, and demo […]
Selecting the right DCC system
❶ Introductory systems. Introductory systems like the Bachmann E-Z Command, left, and NCE PowerCab are inexpensive ways to get into Digital Command Control. Larry Puckett offers DCC shopping tips. I can’t even begin to remember how many times folks have asked me “which Digital Command Control system should I buy?” or “Which one is best […]
Track troubleshooting tips and tricks, Part 4: Fixing power losses through turnouts
Theo Cobb illustration So long as your rails are clean and your rolling stock is fine-tuned, it’s time to inspect your right-of-way for problems. This is the fourth of five quick articles on how to check for and fix common mechanical and electrical track problems with model railroad track. Electrical problems in turnouts and switches […]
Track troubleshooting tips and tricks, Part 5: Tune-up tips for power-routing turnouts
Some power-routing turnouts use thin metal tabs to provide contact between the stock rails and switch points. These tabs are often unreliable, especially on older turnouts, and can cause locomotives to stall. Paul J. Dolkos Theo Cobb illustration So long as your rails are clean and your rolling stock is fine-tuned, it’s time to inspect […]
It’s My Railroad with Steve Brown: Episode 2
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Host Steve Brown is back to share a bit more of his progress constructing an N scale (1:160) layout. In this MRVP exclusive episode, he’ll show you the clever LED lighting strips that will help illuminate the lower level his Brown-Smith Railroad (BSR). […]
It’s My Railroad with Steve Brown: Episode 2
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Host Steve Brown is back to share a bit more of his progress constructing an N scale (1:160) layout. In this MRVP exclusive episode, he’ll show you the clever LED lighting strips that will help illuminate the lower level his Brown-Smith Railroad (BSR). […]
How-to Library: Operating with Fleischmann Roco Z21 Control System
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Follow along with MR Senior Editor Dana Kawala as he shows how to install and prepare a Fleischmann Roco Z21 control system for use operating DCC-equipped locomotives on an HO scale layout. […]
How-to Library: Operating with Fleischmann Roco Z21 Control System
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Follow along with MR Senior Editor Dana Kawala as he shows how to install and prepare a Fleischmann Roco Z21 control system for use operating DCC-equipped locomotives on an HO scale layout. […]
How to build a stow-away model railroad test track
Tom Knapp’s workshop now sports this N scale standard and narrow gauge model railroad test track that folds up. With the safety bolt retracted, Tom can lift the table out of its hangers and tip it up against the door. The test track folds flat against the door, where it’s held by a magnetic latch […]