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Choosing a layout is one of the most important steps when planning a new model railroad. You must account for the scale of the train, the size of the diorama, and any special features that you plan to include before you start building. Whether you’re new to the hobby or an old pro looking to change up your layout preferences, we’ve provided a list of the different types of model railroad layouts to inspire your next project.Basic Track LayoutsThere are only four types of model train track layout …

Like any hobby, it can take a while to learn the ropes with model trains and feel comfortable with what you’re doing. Unfortunately, simple mistakes can sometimes dissuade people from persevering until they get it right. To make things easier, here are five mistakes to avoid when building a model railroad.1. Not Enough Space Between Junctions and CurvesOne mistake people often make is not leaving enough room between junctions and curves in their tracks. A junction is where rail routes either con …

Model trains are an exciting hobby with a long and fascinating history. What began as an engineering tool quickly evolved into scale replication for personal collecting and enjoyment. Here’s a brief look at the history of model trains.The First Model TrainsSteam locomotives first appeared in the early 19th century, and became a major part of the world’s transportation industry by the middle of the century. At first, engineers created miniature versions of trains as tools for planning and designi …

Model trains are a fun pastime, but new hobbyists (and even veterans) occasionally encounter problems with their trains. One common issue you may encounter is a train that won’t run when the power is switched on. Follow these tips for troubleshooting model trains that don’t run, and you’ll be back on track before you know it.Is It Just One Train?When troubleshooting, it’s always best to start with the simplest possible explanation and work from there to more complex problems. If you have a train …

Derailing is a problem that plagues new model train enthusiasts and veterans alike. It can happen whenever a car or engine wheel snags on the track, or even when an entire train rolls over. Here are five possible reasons your model train is derailing and how to fix it.1. Dirty EquipmentDust and grime can interfere with your model train in a number of ways. Firstly, too much grime on the wheels of your rolling stock can prevent them from connecting with the track properly. The same problem can oc …

The planning phase is one of the most exciting parts of designing a model railroad. Planning allows you to flex your creativity and ingenuity as you pick out the trains, terrain, and scenery elements that will make your project come to life. Here’s what to remember as you choose a theme for your model railroad.Project PurposeBefore you get too far into the planning, you’ll want to consider why you’re taking on this project. Do you have a particular train that you’d like to build a railroad aroun …

Any model train enthusiast has their favorite pick of scale, but for most hobbyists, the HO scale locomotive comes in first place. The HO scale ranks as the most popular model railroad scale worldwide and with sound reason. The two primary advantages of the HO scale include convenient sizing and intricate designs. The HO scale trumps other scales because of its versatility and wide array of manufacturers, but these aren’t the only reasons hobbyists prefer HO scale locomotives. Keep reading to di …

Since the late 19th century, the model train car has evolved into a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles. If you’re beginning your model railroading journey, you’ll discover model train car types are distinguished by scale and gauges. When model trains entered the market, there was no standard size, which led to manufacturers producing a system of train scales. These common model railroad scales provided a standard for model trains and made it easier to operate different models on the same track …

Model railroads have gifted hobbyists with the opportunity to recreate American railroading for over a hundred years. Building a model railroad provides insight into the engineering mechanisms of trains and the tracks they wheeled on throughout US history. Any hobbyist can justify having a model railroad as being a fun pastime. But the benefits of owning a model railroad range from being educational to developmental in a variety of real-world skills. Explore the advantages of having a model rai …

Railways play a significant role in history, but they weren’t always the powerhouses they are today. From their inception as steam engines in the 1700s to the modern-day high-speed rails, a quick overview of the evolution of rolling stock can shed some light on railway history. Origins With Steam EnginesUsing high-pressure steam to act on a piston, Scottish inventor James Watt, along with his employee William Murdoch, created a small-scale engine, the precursor to the locomotive engine. Richard …