You can use old transformers with modern O and S gauge locomotives and keep the former from gathering dust under the bed. Many of us still have A.C. power packs from Lionel, American Flyer, and other manufacturers. They are still viable for good reason: durability and plenty of wattage. In addition to supplying juice to […]
The first Lionel Conrail cars and engines came shortly after the federal government created the railroad in 1976. Fundimensions, the division of General Mills then licensed to manufacture and market Lionel trains and accessories, announced an O gauge boxcar with Conrail graphics in the 1977 consumer catalog. The quick move was actually atypical. Earlier mergers […]
The Lionel X6454 Baby Ruth boxcar is one of the most basic freight cars ever made. It looks unassuming and familiar, but it’s among the toughest postwar cars to find and own. Lionel cataloged this 9¼-inch model only in 1948. It was one of three new single-door boxcars introduced that year, all of them designated […]
CTT author Peter Riddle has been a fixture in the magazine over the years, and now on Trains.com. He has also authored a number of books and is proof a love of toy trains can truly last a lifetime. We’ve asked him a few questions. My first train set (or locomotive) was…? It’s likely that […]
Classic Toy Trains’ O and S gauge building flats round-up showcases manufacturers producing low-profile structures. These building flats mimic a full-size building but are generally only an inch or two deep. They may fit against a backdrop, or, if large enough, may actually be the backdrop. Modelers can use these at the edge of a […]
CTT 2022 annual index […]
It’s time to go riding the rails with the Lionel Hobo Sound Boxcar. Initially offered in the Lionel 2021 Volume II catalog, it was confined to half of page 47. Perhaps uncertain of how the product would be received, the manufacturer only offered it in two road names: Erie (pictured, No. 226010); and Rock Island […]
Graffiti on O gauge trains typically has a polarizing effect: One either loves or hates it. But there’s no denying the painting on model subways, rolling stock, and even diesel locomotives can make contemporary equipment come to life. Items produced and marketed by Lionel, along with some developed by Atlas O and MTH Electric Trains, […]
From CTT’s editorial page to Collectible Classics, I’ve spouted on about how the world’s greatest hobby, model railroading, has and will continue to influence my life and leisure. Unfortunately, that influence hasn’t (yet) extended to my young son, Theo. Instead of toy trains, he’s currently consumed by all things LEGO – those interlocking plastic building […]
Welcome to the first Bob’s Train Box of 2023! On this episode, Bob and CTT editor Hal have a look at a variety of new products including Menards Fury Motors, an Atlas O Schlitz Beer boxcar, a Classic Toy Trains delivery truck, and an O gauge test track from our friend Gary at Gooddealsdcc.com. Bob […]
Download the track plan for this layout. […]
Name: Dave Tori’s S gauge layout Dimensions: 13 x 21 feet Track: Gilbert and Lionel American Flyer (diameters range from 36 to 54 inches) Switches: Gilbert American Flyer Motive power: American Models, Gilbert and Lionel American Flyer, Pennsylvania Heritage Models, S-Helper Service Rolling stock: American Models, Gilbert and Lionel American Flyer, S-Helper Service Controls: American […]
