Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page In this video Model Railroader associate editor Cody Grivno shows you how to get started using an airbrush. You’ll learn about some of the different types of airbrushes, how to mix paint, and proper airbrushing techniques. […]
Section: How To
Thin Branch Series: Introduction and operation of our HO scale branch line
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page The Thin Branch is an HO scale addition to Model Railroader‘s Virginian project railroad. This video introduces the project and also explains how a typical operating session on the Thin Branch works. […]
Thin Branch Series: Build a layout mock-up
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Although track plans are fairly accurate, you don’t really know how a layout will turnout until you build it. In this video, we’ll show you a test step where you can build a mock-up using cardboard and track sections to see if it […]
Thin Branch Series: Wire a power reversing switch
Power-reversing switches are commonly used when wiring switch motors or creating reverse loops on DC-powered layouts. Learn how to make your own reversing switches using a common double-pole double throw toggle switch. […]
Basic Training: Cementing resin parts
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Many of today’s limited run models are made using resin. Although similar to plastic, resin requires different adhesives to assemble the parts. This video shows how to do the job using cyanoacrylate adhesive, commonly known as super glue. […]
Basic Training: Model paints
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page There are many different paints available for modeling work, and in this video Cody Grivno explains the basics and uses of several common brands. […]
Basic Training, Episode 1 – Rail Joiners
Basic Training is a series of videos for modelers just starting out in the hobbby. In this episode, learn how to properly use rail joiners to connect sections of track for your model railroad. […]
Basic Training: Adhesives for modeling
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page What type of glue do you need for your models? That’s exactly what we cover in this video. From super glue to epoxy, we cover the basics of various modeling adhesives. […]
A Lionel FasTrack modular O gauge railroad that travels
Layout designer: Michael Tylick Scale: O Layout size: 11 x 11 feet Track type: Lionel FasTrack Minimum curve: O-36 Originally appeared in the May 2013 issue of Classic Toy Trains. A Lionel FasTrack modular O gauge railroad that travels A Lionel FasTrack modular O gauge railroad that travels schematic A Lionel FasTrack modular O gauge […]
Model Railroader 2013 Layout Progress Tour
FULL SCREEN Follow along with the Model Railroader staff as they visit six model railroads, including Steve Otte’s HO scale Cincinnati, Lebanon & Northern model railroad. FULL SCREEN Our group met at Maxim’s train depot restaurant in Oconomowoc, Wisc., for breakfast. The town’s name is pronounced Oh-con-o-mo-woc. The train depot is on the route of the […]
Four steps to adapting a track plan
In this article, which originally appeared in the September 2011 issue of Classic Toy Trains, CTT’s Kent Johnson demonstrates how to adapt a track plan from one type of track to another. His example: the Reader’s Choice Railroad, adapted from Lionel O to Lionel FasTrack. Learn the steps for adapting your plan and find an […]
Denver & Rio Grande Western 4th Division and Rio Grande Southern
Name: Denver & Rio Grande, Western 4th Division and Rio Grande Southern Layout designer: Jim Hoffman Scale: HOn3 (1:87.1, narrow gauge) Size: D&RGW 24 x 28 feet, RGS 18 x 26 feet Prototype: D&RGW, RGS Locale: New Mexico/Colorado Era: late 1930s to early 1940s Style: walk-in Mainline run: 160 feet Minimum radius: 20″ Minimum turnout: […]