Q: I’m planning a reversing loop on my layout. Must isolated sidings inside a reversing loop be part of the reversing section? Or can they be part of the main power bus? – R. John Kohlbrand A: There are three potential ways to wire up separate sidings and spurs that connect to a reversing section […]
Section: Ask Trains
Who offers models in specific paint schemes?
How do you find specific models in certain paint schemes? Cody answers this question in this video of Ask Trains. Click to see a review of the Bachmann Trains HO scale Siemens ALC-42 diesel locomotive. Do you have a question? Would you like to learn more about full-size trains? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com […]
How do you make paint handles for airbrushing?
Do you need help controlling the main body and the cab while painting? Cody shows viewers how to fashion paint handles out of everyday items found in your home in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have questions about tools for model railroading? Would you like to learn more about prototype trains? Send us […]
Can I add a speaker to a decoder and run it on a DC layout?
Q: I would like to add a speaker to a decoder in my Atlas locomotive. But I plan to run it on a DC analog system. Can I still put the speaker on or can I not? – Zachary Chevalier A: There are such things as motor-only and function-only DCC decoders, so to know if yours […]
How do you find specific curved end railings?
How do you find specific curved end railings? Sometimes it can be hard to find a commercial part for the prototype’s specific details. Cody shows viewers how to make their own curved end railings in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have questions about specific details for your model trains? Would you like to […]
How to repair or replace broken/missing couplers?
How to repair or replace broken/missing couplers? Cody shares ways to take care of couplers in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have questions about model railroading? Would you like to learn more about prototype trains? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers […]
How can I restore the wet water look on my layout?
Q: Years ago, I used Liquitex Gloss Medium to create the water in two rivers on my layout. Now, I’ve noticed that they’re not as glossy as they once were. I periodically use a Woodland Scenics Dust Dabber and a wide, soft paintbrush to remove dust from the surface. How would you recommend that I clean the […]
How can I fill in rail gaps on my N scale layout?
Q: After carefully measuring and cutting rail, too often there is still a gap between the rail ends that some of my N scale cars don’t like. I’ve been trying some different fillers, but it’s a challenge for N gauge. Any suggestions for a gap filler? – Steven Simmerman A: Hi, Steven. Some rail gaps […]
What are those cylindrical mini tanks on tank cars used for?
Not all tank cars have these. Cody explains what this particular part is used for in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have other questions about modern freight car components? Or do you have a question about something on your model railroad? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of […]
Is there a passenger set or caboose to go with the Lionel T&P steam engine?
Cody helps a viewer track down products in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have questions about model railroading? Would you like to learn more about full-size trains? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where editors answer the questions […]
What is the best way to replicate mortar joints on styrene kit walls?
Cody offers five tips in this video of Ask Trains. Do you have questions about model railroading? Would you like to learn more about full-size trains? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where editors answer the questions readers and viewers […]
Where do you find replacement parts for out of production locomotives?
Cody helps track down specific parts in this video of Ask Trains. Do you need help tracking down auto production parts? Would you like to learn more about full-size railroading? Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com ………………………………… Ask Trains is a regular video feature of Trains.com for magazine subscribers and Trains.com members, where editors answer the questions readers […]