Steam operation ends in China

Plume of smoke from steam locomotive illuminated by sparks at night

Steam locomotives dropped their fires for last time in everyday use in China in mid-January with the end of operations at a coal mine in Xinjiang Province, ending three decades during which the country became famous with railfans worldwide as the last refuge of steam operation. New steam locomotives were still being built in the […]

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Shay locomotive arrives at Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Shay locomotive on flatcar

PORTLAND, Ore. — Mount Emily Lumber No. 1, a three-truck Shay locomotive, has arrived at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center in Portland, completing its move from its former home at the City of Prineville Railway. The locomotive, built by Lima in 1923, was donated by the lumber company to the Oregon Museum of Science and […]

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How to lubricate your O and S gauge trains

Applying light gear lube to a model locomotive truck with a needle applicator.

Some questions we get frequently are: “How do I lubricate my locomotives?” followed by “What type of lubrication should I use on them?” Here are some answers. And remember, when it comes to oil and grease on locomotives or other rolling stock, less is more. Fortunately, there’s a quick and easy answer for what to […]

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