In this Workbench Minute Hal Miller shows how to remove the motor from a Lionel no. 97 coal elevator, clean the brushes, and lubricate the gearing. Then he puts it back together and gets the venerable accessory running again. […]
Some of today’s short-wheelbase locomotives have issues with the prototypical switches and narrow-angle crossings that make an O gauge railroad look realistic. Here’s a quick fix that will allow any locomotive - even this economical Bethlehem Steel saddle tanker from Lionel – to perform reliably over the troublesome trackwork. THIS IS A PHOTO FEATURE. CLICK […]
Here are a few tips and tricks when working with MTH RealTrax: The two ground rails are not tied together. This is true for other track systems using non-metallic ties, including those from Atlas O and GarGraves. If you add a switch, you need to add a lockon and make sure it’s on the […]
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Restoration and Repair: Your resource for tips and techniques to keep your toy trains well-maintained. […]
The Lionel operating milk car’s chute is made so that the milk barrels can only be put in the correct way. However, once inside the chute, the barrels can become jammed if the car tips over. Here are some tips for keeping this car in service. Classic Toy Trains file A version of this article […]
Build a Halloween layout […]
Layouts controlled with a conventional transformer are still as popular and practical as ever. The basic electrical principles of this setup haven’t changed since their origin, but you may find it helpful to refresh your understanding of how things work. William Zuback Of all the questions fielded by the staff of Classic Toy Trains, inquiries […]
Lionel no. 31960 The Polar Express and other holiday train sets that come with trains, track, and a transformer are ideal for creating a display under the Christmas tree. Jim Forbes Around my house, all the holiday decorations that adorn our walls are clearly the result of my wife’s dedicated efforts. Wisely, she doesn’t trust […]
Locomotives and rolling stock are pretty durable in the O and S gauge hobby, but even the best performers in your fleet will benefit from regular inspection, cleaning, and oiling. Here are seven of our most essential maintenance basics. Most of these tips are one-evening projects, and some take even less time. Give them a […]
Many newer diesel locomotives have side frames that can be easily removed, making tire replacement a less complex (and less frustrating) process. Jim Forbes A properly fitting traction tire should be smooth and free of bulges and crimps. The payoff for getting the replacement done right is better pulling performance for your locomotive. Jim Forbes […]
Troubleshooting vintage O gauge locomotives isn’t difficult. There are some common issues to look for when they won’t run, and most are fairly easy to fix. It happens to all of us sooner or later. You place your favorite vintage locomotive on the track, power up the transformer, and the darn thing just sits there, […]
