Model Railroad Operations: Six tips for better operations

HO scale model train traveling down the tracks on a layout

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page In this MRVP exclusive video, Contributing Editor Andy Sperandeo uses MR magazine’s HO scale layout to demonstrate six helpful tips aimed at making you a better crew member during your next layout operating session. Coming from an “old head” like Andy, who’s operated […]

Read More…

How-To Library: Installing Blue Point switch controls

Installing Blue Point switch controls

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page In this how-to video, MRVP’s David Popp shows you how easy it is to install Blue Point push-pull control levers used to manually throw turnouts on a layout of any size, scale, or complexity. David’s demonstration talks you through the tools and techniques […]

Read More…

Model Railroad Operations: Hand Signals

Piece of paper with instructions for hand signals

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Contributing Editor Andy Sperandeo returns to Model Railroader magazine’s HO scale layout to share proper model railroad operating techniques for our cameras. In this MRVP exclusive video, he recruits Cody Grivno to demonstrate how to use hand signals, a topic addressed in Andy’s […]

Read More…

Demonstration of magnetic air hoses on HO scale freight cars

Model locomotive and boxcar connected by magnetic hoses

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Model Railroader contributing editor Pelle Søeborg installed MagnaLock air brake lines (hoses) from North American Railcar Corp. on his HO scale freight cars. In this video you can see how the air hoses work during switching moves on Pelle’s Union Pacific Daneville Sub model train […]

Read More…

Build a covered loading platform in 1:29 scale

Build a covered loading platform in 1:29 scale

Download the PDF of this project here. This PDF is formatted to print on your home printer. Most pieces are formatted to fit on a 8.5″ x 11″ piece of paper. For larger parts of the plan, you will see “break lines.” Line up the break lines to create the larger piece. PLEASE NOTE: This […]

Read More…

Modeling damaged trees on your train layout

Kent Johnson in front of layout

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Add a touch of realism to your modeled forest or wooded grove by including decaying or damaged trees. Kent Johnson demonstrates a quick and easy technique for making plague pines using plastic tree kits available for layouts of any size or scale. […]

Read More…