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Celebratingthe art of1:48 modelingIssue #31Mar/Apr 2007Art DirectorJaini Giannovariojaini@oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>ContributorsTed ByrneBobber GibbsMike CougillCarey HinchVol. 6 - No. 2PublisherJoe Giannovariojag@oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>EditorBrian Scacebrian@oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>Advertising ManagerJeb Kriigel<strong>jeb@oscalemag</strong>.<strong>com</strong>Customer ServiceSpike BeagleHobo D. HirailerRoger C. ParkerGene ClementsNeville RossiterSubscription Rates: 6 issuesUS - Standard Mail DeliveryUS$35US - First Class Delivery (1 year only) US$45Canada/MexicoUS$55OverseasUS$80Visa, MC, AMEX & Discover acceptedCall 610-363-7117 duringEastern time business hoursDealers contact Kalmbach Publishing, 800-558-1544 ext 818 or email tss@kalmbach.<strong>com</strong>Advertisers call for info.O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> ISSN 1536-9528www.oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>Published bimonthly (6 times a year) byO <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>PO Box 238, Lionville PA 19353-0238© 2007 OST All Rights ReservedPrinted in the U.S.A.Contributors: O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> wel<strong>com</strong>es your feature articles,photos, and drawings. Such material should be sent to theabove address for possible publication. If we accept, you willbe notified immediately. For more information concerningarticle preparation guidelines, please send an SASE to theabove address and request our “Guide For Authors” or visit ourwebsite at: www.oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>.Cover: Canadian Pacific Railway FA2, #4094, backs out of theengine house where it received minor repairs after derailingwhile passing through Kaloma yard on Brian Ottaway’s OspreyLakes & Northern.Centerspread: OL&N GP9, #160, trundles past some workersbusy at their tasks on a hot summer afternoon. This centerspreadand cover photos were taken by David Mehew on BrianOttaway’s OL&N O <strong>Scale</strong> layout.Features6 Osprey Lakes & Northern RailwayWe take a trip north to visit Brian Ottaway’s fine O <strong>Scale</strong> layout.14 Adding Character to a LayoutIdeas from our Finescale Columnist Mike Cougill.20 A Backwoods SawmillA great small industry for any layout by, Charlie Flichman.25 ROTS: A Turnout JigA handy-dandy fixture by Ted Horvath.27 Build A Small O <strong>Scale</strong> Layout – Part 14Mike Culham finishes the factory construction.43 Making Large Stone WallsA neat way to make tall and long stone walls by Joe & Jaini Giannovario.60 PowerUp: Realistic Passenger Car LightingTed Byrne describes the lighting circuits needed.61 ROTS: Escaping SpringsBrian Scace describes a method for keepings small parts from disappearing.Departments11 Easements for the Learning Curve – Brian Scace12 Traction Action – Roger C. Parker17 Modern Image – Gene Clements18 Confessions of a HiRailer – Hobo D. Hirailer32 The Art of Finescale – Mike Cougill35 Reader Feedback – Letters to the Editor41 Narrow Minded – Bobber Gibbs46 Product News & Reviews58 The Workshop – Neville Rossiter61 Modeler’s Shelf68 Buy-Sell-Trade Ads68 Events Listing69 Advertiser Index70 Observations – Joe GiannovarioMar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> •
THE OSPREY LAKES& NORTHERN RAILWAYBy Brian Ottaway Photographs by David MehewOL&N passenger train The Osprey streaks across Dog River trestle on its way to the town of Kirby.My O <strong>Scale</strong> Osprey Lakes & Northern Railway is a singletrackshortline located in a hybrid area that is a cross betweenNorthern Ontario and the foothills of Alberta, Canada. Thetimeframe of this railway consists of those wondrous yearsbetween the mid-50s and the early ‘60s, en<strong>com</strong>passing lingeringsteam power and first generation Diesels with a spatteringof second generation Diesels, in my case an EMD GP30 andan Alco RS32. As well as OL&N power, this line offers trackagerights for the Osprey Lakes Lumber Co., a subsidiary of theOL&N, as well as occasional Canadian National, CanadianPacific and Great Northern activity.My pike calls a recreation room home, at 34’ long, 11’ at itswidest, and 9’ at its narrowest. It is an around-the-wall designwith a maximum radius of 58” and a minimum radius of 50”.Its width ranges from 24 to 42”. The widest portion is located atThis long deserted house has a reputation with the locals of being haunted.One day each year the ghost of the “Lady in White" can be seen in the upperwindow anxiously waiting for her fiancé who failed to show for their weddingday many years ago.O.L.L.Co. <strong>com</strong>bine caboose #290 passes over a millpond that a pair ofindustrious beavers have chosen to call home.the future town of Kirby. The benchwork was made using boxframingwith roadbed consisting of 1/2” plywood mounted onrisers attached to the frame. The frame is constructed in sectionsso that the layout can be disassembled for moving if required,and is supported by a <strong>com</strong>bination of cantilevers and legs. Thetrackwork consists of cork roadbed, prefabricated weatheredtrack by House of Duddy, and switches by Right O’ Way. Therail is 57” above the floor, as I like to view my trains at eye level.I utilized some S <strong>Scale</strong> buildings, figures, and vehicles in variousbackground areas to force the perspective of these scenes.Viewed with the normal O <strong>Scale</strong> items at the front, this helpsgive the impression of great distances.Lo<strong>com</strong>otives and rolling stock are a <strong>com</strong>bination of brass • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
Osprey Lakes & Northern 2-10-0 #5712 chuffs across Dog River trestle.Old O.L.L.Co. wood caboose #02 passes through Kaloma yard on the end of ashort work train. The foreman’s son is enjoying the opportunity to ride with his dad.(by various manufacturers), Atlas and Red Caboose plastic models,and a few wooden kits. The layout is powered by the triedand-trueblock system. It is wired for two-cab operation, butat the moment I’m using only one cab. In the future, I plan touse both cabs, so operations can be performed in the yard andon the mainline simultaneously by two operators. Eventually Iwould like to have my lo<strong>com</strong>otives equipped with sound.Perhaps now is the time to confess that I’m one of those whoderives great enjoyment from just watching trains meanderingthrough highly detailed countryside. In other words, operationinvolving <strong>com</strong>plex switching is not my cup of java. This isnot meant to be any kind of slight against those who do; morepower to them. For me, just two yard areas, with simple switchingcapabilities and not a lot of trackage for storage of copiousquantities of cars, is sufficient.The OL&N is the handiwork of three people. My good friendMar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> •
Great Northern SW1 #76, a frequent visitor to this railway, skirts the edge ofOsprey Lake towing its four car train.Osprey Lakes & Northern Mack Railbus #M-80 scoots through Kaloma yardwith a Sunday morning sightseeing and picnic excursion.A traffic mishap on the two-lane road running through Talsma Gorge has a lotof motorists hot under the collar.Number 125, an RS3, saunters past Mehew’s Farm and Boarding House.This fisherman, enjoying his favorite hobby, looks like he has a fighter on his line.Osprey Lakes Lumber Co. #24, a Whit<strong>com</strong>b 44 tonner, pulls its ancientcaboose #02 through the Pratt truss bridge. • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07The daughter of a retiring engineer photographs her dad as he brings hisGP30, #832, and train into Kaloma yard for the last time.
OL&N #208 drifts past the beach at the south end of Osprey Lake. It appears that the sunbathers and swimmers are having too much fun to notice.David Mehew built the framework, laid the track, wired thelayout, and handcrafted my great haunted house. He also tookthe photographs for this article. Keith Hansen, author of The Last<strong>Trains</strong> From Lindsay, painted the superb backdrops and helpedwith many modifications. I concentrated on the scenery anddetailed the pike. I should also mention that certain structures,such as the Chama inspired coaling tower and sandhouse, thewooden trestle, and the Kirby Station, were professionally builtby another friend, Peter Reisiger.The basic scenery material is “color-ized” plaster on a styrofoambase. I cast many rock molds to create a variety of outcroppings.Bodies of water involved numerous techniques suchas a thin layer of plaster “rippled” with a wet sponge, paintedblack and covered with three coats of clear high-gloss urethanevarnish. I’ve also used stippled glass coated with a thin washof green water-based paint on the underside. And last, but notleast, clear resin was used where depth was required. I alsoused real dirt, sandstones, bark, twigs, as well as a variety of<strong>com</strong>mercial and home-made trees. I used a generous supply ofmaterials from Woodland Scenics.I personally prefer a well-populated layout. As a result, I havemany little people and animals that call my layout home. Theseare from a variety of vendors such as Arttista, Preiser, and others.At the time of this writing, my scenery is about 80% <strong>com</strong>pletewith only the Town of Kirby to be finished. It will includea small church and graveyard, the Kirby Station, and some smallindustries. There is also a plan in the works to build a turntablehere, so that I will be able to run my trains in both directionswithout “five-finger” switching.Like many O <strong>Scale</strong>rs, I began my model railroad adventuresin HO. However, one day I visited an O <strong>Scale</strong> layout. The sizeand bulk of the lo<strong>com</strong>otives and cars, the sounds of taking upslack, wheels clattering across rail joints, even flanges squealingon tight curves, grabbed a hold of me and would not let go.The cameraman gets a risky head-on shot of Geep #160as it eases by a work crew.Also the allure of free-standing detail, full brake rigging, scaleroofwalks and the like (most of which was not found on HOequipment at the time), soon had me hook, line, and sinker.Granted, in most cases this fine detail was found on expensivebrass models, but it was available if you desired it. Now thatI’m in my sixties, seeing and working with larger detail is mucheasier on the eyes than in the smaller scales. Hey, I’ll be the firstto admit O <strong>Scale</strong> is not all peaches and cream. It has a gluttonousappetite for real estate and consumes copious quantitiesof storage space <strong>com</strong>pared to the smaller scales. I feel that thepositives far outweigh the negatives. It is my sincere hope thatthe O <strong>Scale</strong> branch of the model railroad hobby will attract newdevotees of all ages and will flourish in the future.u(See more photos of the OL&N starting on Page 61)Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> •
NEW ENGLANDO SCALE SHOWSunday,March 25, 20072 Rail <strong>Scale</strong>, 3 Rail Hi-Rail, Operating On-site LayoutsSponsored by Metrowest Model Railroad SocietyHudson Elks Hall 99 Park Street Hudson, MA 01749SHOW HOURS: 10 AM - 4 PMTICKETS: $4, Children 5-12 - $1, Under 5 - Free with AdultFor Information Contact:Show Chairman 347 Bal<strong>com</strong> Street Mansfield, MA 02048(508) 337-6661 BigBrotherLar@netzero.nethttp://www.trainweb.org/metrowestAdvertise in O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>!Contact Jeb Kriigel, <strong>jeb@oscalemag</strong>.<strong>com</strong>Subscribe toO <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>Visa, MC, AMEX & Discover acceptedCall 610-363-7117 during Eastern time business hoursSubscription Rates: 6 issuesUS - Standard Mail Delivery US$35US - First Class Delivery (1 year only) US$45Canada/Mexico US$55Overseas US$8010 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
It’s hard to believe that OST is now fiveyears old. When I came on board back inSeptember of 2002, I really had no ideawhat was in store for me, the bushy-tailedopinionated purveyor of swill oriented tothe beginner that was “Easements”.Now, I look back at it all and have tobe at least bemused. I never thought ofmyself as an editor of a model magazine,but that’s where the twisted path has ledme. Along the way I’ve met many of you,and the unexpected epiphany has beenthat I have learned much from you folks.Hardly the result a self-appointed Oracleexpected.You have taught me to listen, afteropening my mouth (usually only toexchange feet), and to be just a bit morereceptive to trying stuff even after experiencehas formulated opinion. After apretty poor experience with early DCC,for example, I’m giving it a secondchance. I probably would never have triedit again as a private O <strong>Scale</strong> citizen butmaybe I’m a little less set in my ways thanI was, especially when so many of you are(thankfully) collectively beating me intosubmission.You’ve taught me that a whole newgeneration enthusiastically pursues their O<strong>Scale</strong> passions, a generation I (and manyof us in my “age group”) didn’t even knowexisted. You younger guys may have differentviews about things, the desire forready-to-run gear, electronics with all thepossibilities, and modern-era modelingto name a few, but I like the cut of yourjib. What you folks are doing is healthyand good, even if we grizzled folk mightgrouse about it. I’m glad you’re here.You’ve all taught me that my way isn’tthe “right way” for everyone, which canbe a hard concept to understand andaccept. One person might pursue “excellence”,another calls it “fun”; I’ve oftencalled it “level of neurosis”. It really canonly be called “satisfaction”, and that’s adefinition only applicable to one’s self, notothers. At the same time, this realizationmakes it sound like we’re a pretty <strong>com</strong>bativebunch. Well, we are. That’s what happensin an arena where the passions runhigh. That’s also what’s right about ourscale, and the hobby in general. That passionis why O <strong>Scale</strong> currently is as healthyas it has ever been.So, if it sounds like “Easements” andmy time with all of you as Editor of thesepages has taught me more than I mayhave taught you, it’s probably becauseit has. On the occasion of our five-yearanniversary together, I can’t resist a littlereflection, nor can I let this occasion passwithout thanking you all. By the way, beafraid. The tail is still pretty bushy.…and Since You’ve AskedMany of you remember the little lad onthe cover of OST #13, our second anniversaryissue. I’ve had more than a fewqueries about what he was doing, trainwise,as our fifth-year issue approached,so here you go. Tad Scace is deeply intoThomas the Tank Engine, riding trains withMommy and Daddy, and testing the lawsof physics with his Lionel stuff (cleverly setup in the same room as my O <strong>Scale</strong> railroad-a-building).His railroad interests arestill running strong. Here, he takes a breakand switches some hideously expensiverolling stock (That’ll make the collectorscringe!) on the CTRRA. We’ll keep youposted as the situation degrades.Let’s go exploring!uMar/Apr ’07- O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 11
Traction ActionRoger C. ParkerModeling Inspiration on a Budget in New York CityCity Hall Trolley, side view. Steel Plate, 1900: Collection Jack Herbert.New York Transit Museum, Brooklyn HeightsSince many of us visit New York City at one time or anotherduring the course of a year, we should all get to know the NewYork Transit Museum. Their two locations, one in Brooklyn andone at Grand Central Terminal, and their varied workshops andtours provide traction modelers with numerous unique opportunitiesto learn.The starting point for exploring the offerings of the New YorkTransit Museum would be to visit their website [http://www.mta.info/mta/museum/general.htm]. While at the website, be sureyou join their mailing list. You can also join their mailing list bycalling 718-694-3451.Excursions and Special EventsThe word “museum” implies static displays, but this is notwhat the New York Transit Museum is all about. When my 2007calendar arrived in the mail, I was immediately attracted by themany special events available throughout the year. These eventsprovide unequalled opportunities to explore the subways in asafe and organized manner.One of the most fascinating events described was “TheJewel in the Crown: Old City Hall Station”, a series of special“members only” fundraising walks through the station offeringopportunities to view the chandeliers, leaded skylights, vaultedceiling, and decorative tilework.Another event, certain to interest modelers of high-densityurban transit, takes place in April. This one is entitled “ElevatedHeins and La Farge”. This is a walking tour, with transit historianJoe Cunningham, revisiting the early days of the subway andexploring the elevated stations of the IRT designed by architectsHeins and LaFarge.Not all events are historical; some are just plain fun. Forexample, there’s a March event entitled “The L to the MMMMTrain: Hipster Food, Puebla York and Wurst”. This can bedescribed as a walking and eating tour, exploring some of thebest ethnic eateries in Brooklyn and Queens. The train doorsopen, at each stop, on a vast and varied foodscape.Finally, there are numerous excursions to tour locations likethe New York City Transit’s Coney Island Overhaul Shop andYard, the Corona Maintenance Facility, and the 180th StreetMaintenance Shop Tour. Tours cost non-members $25 (memberspay just $20), but how else can you legally and safelyexplore the infrastructure and inner workings of the world’s busiesturban transportation system? Bringing home just one perfectphotograph justifies the modest fees!Museum displaysThe New York Transit Museum hosts a variety of displays atits Grand Central and Brooklyn Heights locations. During theChristmas season, there is an annual holiday train show at theGrand Central location. At the Brooklyn Heights location, thereis an exhibit of photographs by Sam Hollenshead, titled “FrontLines: Rebuilding the Rails after 9/11”.At Grand Central, from March through early July, there willbe an exhibit entitled: “Architects of the NYC Subway, Part l:Heins & LaFarge and the Tradition of Great Public Works”.Talks, Movies and KidsThere are frequent events on weekend afternoons in the EducationCenter at the museum’s Brooklyn Heights location. Theseinclude movies, lectures, readings, and childrens’ story hours. Ifit relates to New York City transit, it’s likely to be featured in anup<strong>com</strong>ing event.The New York City Transit Museum obviously knows that thebest way to ensure future success is to host pleasurable eventsfor children. Kids can join childrens’ book authors Paul DuBoisJacobs and Jennifer Swender as they present The Deaf Musicians,the story of a jazzman named Lee who performs in thesubway after losing his hearing.Museum StoreAt the online Museum Store, transit modelers located aroundthe world will find access to a wealth of books, posters, umbrellas,t-shirts, jewelry, calendars, memorabilia, tokens, and replicasof important station tiles. Books that are likely to never showup at a local Barnes & Noble or Borders are described andavailable for sale. Even better, you can create an online wish listto help your family and friends choose precisely the best gift forbirthdays and other up<strong>com</strong>ing holidays.DirectionsThe New York Transit Museum is located at the corner ofBoerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, in Brooklyn Heights.The Gallery Annex and Store is located in the Shuttle Passageadjacent to the Stationmaster’s Office at Grand Central. Bothlocations are open Tuesday through Sunday, and the GrandCentral annex is also open Mondays. Plan your journey at[http://www.mta.info/mta/museum/index.html] and join theirfree mailing list.u12 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
Adding Character To A LayoutMike CougillIt’s funny how things happen. You can be sitting admiring afriend’s layout, just minding your own business. Then, withoutwarning, the mental die has been cast and you know that yourlayout is <strong>com</strong>ing down as soon as you get home. That’s the situationI found myself in during the early part of 2005 while visitingWarner Clark’s Nickel Plate inspired P48 layout (<strong>com</strong>ing inOST #32). I finally made the decision to switch from HO scaleto O. Honestly, I’d been toying with the idea for several yearsprior to that fateful visit, getting used to the difference in sizeand learning what was available.Unlike many long time O <strong>Scale</strong>rs, I didn’t have any baggageabout 3-Rail versus scale, or standard O versus P48. There wasno question that P48 was the route I wanted to follow, since mylast efforts in HO were with P87 standards, nor did my modelingfocus change. The Indiana and Whitewater theme wouldsimply be super-sized to O <strong>Scale</strong>, letting me more thoroughlyenjoy the modeling aspects that interest me most, prototypicaltrackwork, scratchbuilding and low-key operations.Size does matter though; since I was going to use the samefootprint from the old layout for the new, choosing what scenesand operational elements to include became very important.Thinking about this, I realized that a few key structures from mybase prototype would set the stage nicely for a modest switchinglayout. Space constraints eliminated any kind of distancerunningbetween towns, so <strong>com</strong>bining these structures and trackarrangements into a single scene could satisfy my criteria. Ona small layout like this, every element has to contribute to thesetting. There just isn’t room for non-essentials that simply takeup space. I found out quickly that I had barely have room for thebuildings I did want with space leftover for the track! Wel<strong>com</strong>eto the King of <strong>Scale</strong>s, rookie!So, what are these character-enhancing elements that set thestage for a model railroad? I think of three that are most <strong>com</strong>mon,the track, scenery and structures, and operations.The TrackI’ve written before about my track techniques (OST #25), soI won’t repeat thatinformation here. 1What I do want toemphasize is howthe appearance ofour model trackcontributes to theoverall effect of thelayout. My baseprototype has trackthat has seen betterdays. This iswhat drew me toit in the first place.The rail is light inweight, and nonetoo straight, whichkeeps train speedsdown. The ties areworn and weathered,often buriedin the dirt, cinderballast, and weedsthat make up theright-of-way. This14 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07right-of-way was built in the 1800s on the towpath of an oldcanal that is still evident in spots. All of this says "branchline",not "mainline". The small yard at the line’s end in Brookville,Indiana (Photo 1), shows how the newer tracks for the enginehouse, with their cleaner ballast, contrast with the old. Littledetails like this, telling of progress and the passage of time, areeasily added to any layout. To model this on my layout (Photo2), I’m using Code 125 and 100 rail, approximating what’s onthe prototype. I also believe that the flowing geometry of long23turnouts (#8 through #10) say “railroad” instead of “model trainlayout”. Before you fire off that Letter to the Editor, let me saythat I understand that not everyone has the space or desire toinclude such huge turnouts. These are simply my choices, notrules carved in stone.Scenery and StructuresScenery can make or break a layout. Warner’s layout is oneof the few I’ve seen in O <strong>Scale</strong> that has <strong>com</strong>pleted scenery. Thearea around his Malinta, Ohio, station and tower is just a joy tolook at (Photo 3). This area also points out how faithful modelingof the scenery of a specific locale can have a great effect.The Whitewater Valley region of Indiana that my prototyperuns through has its own distinct geography, ranging from theopen Ohio River floodplain near Valley Junction, to the steeperhills and valleys near Brookville to the north. Along the route, thetrack will sometimes hug the riverbank; at other times it skirts outacross the flood plains filled with fields of corn and soybeans.Trees are mixed hardwood forest with a few evergreens.
While there won’t be much room for three-dimensional sceneryon the layout, what will be modeled has to say “Indiana”,and not call to mind Appalachia or New England. Therefore, I’mgoing to pay closer attention to the types of trees represented onthe layout, along with the grasses and other groundcover. (Seemy article in OST #26.)Building types also play a key role in locating a layout in aparticular region. The signature industry on the I&W will bea roofing shingle plant. This is what keeps the line going. My45model will be scratchbuilt, and large enough to justify rail service.The feed mill from Cedar Grove (Photos 4 & 5) is anotherkey building on the line that separates this railroad from all theothers. Having distinctive buildings on a layout helps to avoidthe generic look that you sometimes see, where the same buildingkit shows up everywhere. While scratchbuilding structurescan be time consuming, the rewards are many. Another sceneryaspect is to model the industries represented in the region youmodel. While the area surrounding my prototype has steel mills,chemical plants and paper mills, none of these were served bythe real I&O branch that I’m modeling. Building products andfarm <strong>com</strong>modities make up the bulk of the traffic base for thisline, and so it will be on the layout.Name everything: tracks, locations, and anything else youcan name. In Richmond, Indiana, the Pennsylvania had namesfor tracks like “the Long Branch”, “the Short Track”, the “BarnumTrack” and (my all time favorite) “the Stingy Track”. The name"Whitewater" shows up all over my area. There’s a town ofWhitewater in the Whitewater Valley, which borders the WhitewaterRiver where you can rent canoes from Whitewater CanoeRentals, and on it goes. A strong regional name like this can givea clear identity to your modeled locale. Naming everything addsanother dimension of reality to our modeling efforts for no extracost or space, while giving tons of character in return.OperationsI like low key operations. The first time I saw a train on thebranch I was hooked. When I modeled in HO, the temptation toadd trains and <strong>com</strong>plexity to the layout was always there. I simplydon’t have the space for it in O <strong>Scale</strong>, and that’s a relief in away. This lets me concentrate my efforts on developing qualityrolling stock and other detailing, often short-changed on largerlayouts. I can also learn and appreciate what the prototype didto get the job done for their customers. Operations on a smalllayout need not be limited as many fear. Taking one’s time toenjoy things is wonderful, while running and switching at prototypicalspeeds makes the layout seem larger.Construction of the I&W is well underway. Maybe the Editorwill let me share more of that in the future.uAdvertise in O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong><strong>Magazine</strong>! We have the bestrates in the business!Stevenson Preservation LinesO Gauge Kits and Parts from pastMaster ModelersCatalog 2005 Price: $3.00Baldwin Model Lo<strong>com</strong>otive WorksLobaughAdams & SonsLenoirKansas City KitHines LinesAlexanderPearce Tool Co.Bob Stevenson, 2326 230th St. Ames, IA 50014Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 15
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Distributed PowerLooking at the photograph of Train C-BAMPAM3-13, withBNSF 8981 and a trailing SD70-MAC, your first thought mightbe, ”There’s only two engines assigned to this unit coal train.”That’s not the case. On the rear, 7,300 feet back, is a remotegroup of three more SD70-MACs, all engines being one consist.In the early 1990s, on the Burlington Northern, we startedseeing lo<strong>com</strong>otives equipped with “distributed power” or “integrateddistributed power” systems which consisted of an externalcontrol box mounted on the control stand with additionalradio telemetry equipment. When the “ICE” monitor displayscreens became the standard, with the EMD 70 series and GEDash 9s, the DP control system became a standard option availablefrom the builders, with operational control shown on theICE displays and program functions standardized for the railwayindustry.Over the years, with the advancement of lo<strong>com</strong>otive technologyand horsepower ratings, train size (both tonnage and trainlength) has increased. The 15,000-ton unit trains (with 15,000-plus horsepower located on the head end) that were <strong>com</strong>monup to the 1980s were at the upper limit of tensile strength of railcarknuckles and drawbar assemblies. When things went wellyou scratched over the hills; when they did not, you createdscrap iron.The trains of today are often over 19,000 tons, with lo<strong>com</strong>otiveconsists producing more than 20,000 horsepower. Theywould be rolling scrap iron producers without the ability todistribute the available horsepower to reduce in train forces.“Distributed power” gives the lo<strong>com</strong>otive engineer the abilityto operate more than one lo<strong>com</strong>otive consist within a train,either all in unison or in independent groups of units, accordingto what is necessary to navigate the territory they are operatingover. Even with this technology, things can and do occasionallygo wrong.With the principles of distributed power in mind, let’s lookat applying this prototype practice to our model trains and layouts.We will take a look at each of today’s control standards forboth two- and three-rail layouts. Let’s first consider a few basics,trackwork and car weight.If you are currently operating trains over your layout in anefficient manner, then there should be no problem with operating“DP” trains. On any layout, sub-standard track will causeproblems regardless of the type of operation. Car weight is critical;freight cars need to be weighted to NMRA standards for thecar length. The forces of an engine pulling from the front andan engine pushing from the rear can result in derailments if theyare handling lightweight freight cars. On the prototype, you maysee an empty train with a “DP” engine located at the rear of thetrain. Usually this engine is being used instead of a FRED (FlashingRear End Device), and its use is restricted.Using conventional two-rail DC or three-rail AC cab control,multiple engines should operate well together in a multiple unit (MU)consist. You would be limited to a single operating consist, unlessyou could manage multiple consists in separate power blocks controlledby independent throttles (which would be very <strong>com</strong>plicated).The Lionel TMCC system, used both in two- and threerailoperations, simplifies this matter. You have the ability toassemble either one consist with engines in multiple locations,or multiple consists in the train controlled by separate throttles.A multiple consist allows the operator to perform station workwith the lead consist while the rear consist remains in idle.With the DCC equipment available in the O <strong>Scale</strong> market,operators have the option of <strong>com</strong>bining or “nesting” multipleconsists into one operated by a single controller. DCC also givesthe operator the ability to split these consists to perform stationwork, re-<strong>com</strong>bine, and continue on after the work is <strong>com</strong>pleted.As with TMCC, you can operate each consist independently fromthe other by using a controller for each consist. Like the prototypeengineer, you have to be focused to the operation of your train tonavigate an undulating track profile with split consists.Another possibility to consider would be using non-poweredlo<strong>com</strong>otives in your consists to represent operating engines,without putting your power supply in a strain. I have experimentedwith conventional DC and TMCC operating systemson my layout concerning “DP” train operation with satisfyingresults over the last couple of months. As with any mode of trainoperation, a little practice builds experience.Researching DCC has convinced me to make the move. Iwould expect operating results and opinions to be in by the timeyou read this column. Check the OST Blog at [www.oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>/wordpress/] for posts concerning this and other projects,and feel free to post your <strong>com</strong>ments and questions concerningthe "Modern Image".To Jim Scorse of NCE Corporation, a special thanks foranswering my questions concerning the operational possibilitiesof DCC.Until next time, “Roll-em”.uMar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 17
Autumn LeavesBy now most of us have traded in our leaf rakes for snowshovels, and are anticipating the return of warmer weather.While raking leaves this past fall, I was reminded of an idea formaking realistic looking leaves for my layout. It seems that I amalways thinking about new ideas and techniques to improve mymodeling, even while doing <strong>com</strong>mon chores.Ground cover is very important as a part of detailing. A coupleof years ago, I attended a HiRailer’s meeting at York, PA, andheard one of the presenters talking about how he used real leavesto make scale leaves for his layout. He had <strong>com</strong>mandeered a<strong>com</strong>mon kitchen blender (not his wife’s) to process the leaves.Intriguing idea, I thought, and I filed it away for a future time.Seeing some brilliant deep red maple trees this fall reallycaught my attention, and jogged my memory back to that meetingand the process he used to manufacture scale leaves for mymodel railroad. Here is what I found to work.Gather lots of leaves from several types and colors of trees.Newly fallen leaves will work. Pulling leaves off the trees evenworks better. You want to catch them before they turn brownand start to lose their color. 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I used separate paper bags for each type and color. Largepaper grocery-type bags work best, because they allow airinside. I looked for yellows, oranges, and reds. Some brownswill work also.Prepare the leaves by emptying the bag on a table. Anoutside deck table works well for this. Inside, you can spreadnewspaper on a work counter and spread the leaves out. Just besure to be finished by the time the lady of the house gets home.Believe me, Hobo has learned through experience that “happyhomes make for happy railroads”! Pull off any stems, and breakthe leaves into smaller pieces. Also remove any discolored parts,insect eggs, or any unsightly sections. Discard anything thatdoesn’t look good. Mother Nature will provide lots more leaves.Work with the entire contents of the bag. I have found thatbreaking them into sections just works better for the next stage.The Kitchen BlenderDon’t try this at home with the lady of the house’s blender.Remember what we said about the underwritten rule of happyhomes making for happy railroads or you may just find yourselfriding the rails along with this old Hobo. Kitchen blenders areconstantly being modified and modernized. As a result there isan abundance of them that are available at garage sales and fleamarkets. I found several on sale for $5.00 each. One is all youneed and if you treat it well it will last a long time. If not, youcan always find another.On to the ProcessPut the leaf sections into the blender. Fill it about half full.Put the lid on the blender and turn it on. Set the control to pulverize.Agitate the blender by shaking to make sure that all ofthe leaves are blended. The processor actually tears each leafinto many, many tiny leaves that have texture and color. Whenall of the leaves are pulverized turn off the power, unplug theblender and empty the contents on a newspaper. I have foundthat I can get great results by spreading the leaf mixture onto thepaper and placing the paper in a shallow cardboard box, likethe ones that you see in the grocery store that hold soup cans.Put these in an upstairs bedroom to dry for a couple of days.Make several batches of different leaves and different colors.Color separation is important, but you can also blend colors fora realistic mixture.After the scale leaves have dried, place them in sandwichstylezip-lock bags for storage. I like to label the bags with thetype, contents, and date, for future reference. A shoebox workswell for storing these until you need them for the layout. Whenyou are ready to use the leaves, it is very easy to sprinkle themunder fall trees and along the right-of-way for just the right look.They will look like scale autumn leaves. You can also use theseleaves for flocking existing trees. Try lightly spraying a tree witha spray adhesive, or <strong>com</strong>mon hair spray, and immediately sprinklethe scale leaves onto the tree. You will find that, with a littlepractice and creative patience, you can make very realistic scaleleaves that can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the lookof your model railroad. Have fun. That’s my tip for this time.Train whistles are calling this Hobo to the tracks!u
P&D31280 Hobby Shop P&D Hobby F Unit SaleModel shown is #8001Groesbeck, ‐Fraser, MI 48026586-296-6116Open Mon-Fri 10-8,Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5Fax: 586-296-5642www.pdhobbyshop.<strong>com</strong>POWERED F “A” Units: Reg. $350, SALE $289.99#7001 EMD F3-Ph4, F7-Ph1 early , 36" low fans, 36" dynamicbrake, 2 portholes, horiz grilles#8001 EMD F7-Ph1 late, F7-Ph2, 36" low fans, 48" dynamicbrake, 2 portholes, Farr (vert) grilles (shown above)#9001 EMD F9, 36" fans, 48" dynamic brake, 2 portholes,Farr (vert) grillesUNPOWERED F “A” Units: Reg. $225, SALE $189.99#7002 EMD F3-Ph4, F7-Ph1 early , 36" low fans, 36" dynamicbrake, 2 portholes, horiz grilles#8002 EMD F7-Ph1 late, F7-Ph2, 36" low fans, 48" dynamicbrake, 2 portholes, Farr (vert) grilles#9002 EMD F9, 36" fans, 48" dynamic brake, 2 portholes,Farr (vert) grillesF Unit “A” Body KITS: reg. $99.95, on sale $82.99#7000 EMD F3-Ph4, F7-Ph1 early , 36" low fans, 36" dynamicbrake, 2 portholes, horiz grilles#8000 EMD F7-Ph1 late, F7-Ph2, 36" low fans, 48" dynamicbrake, 2 portholes, Farr (vert) grilles#9000 EMD F9, 36" fans, 48" dynamic brake, 2 portholes,Farr (vert) grillesPOWERED F “B” Units: Reg. $315, SALE $264.99#3001 EMD F3-Ph3, F7-Ph1, 36" low fans, 36" dynamicbrake, 3 portholes, horiz grilles#4001 EMD F7-Ph1 (late), F7-Ph2, F9, 36" low fans, 48"dynamic brake, 2 portholes, Farr (vert) grillesUNPOWERED F “B” Units: Reg. $200, SALE $169.99#3002 EMD F3-Ph3, F7-Ph1, 36" low fans, 36" dynamicbrake, 3 portholes, horiz grilles#4002 EMD F7-Ph1 (late), F7-Ph2, F9, 36" low fans, 48"dynamic brake, 2 portholes, Farr (vert) grillesF Unit “B” Body KITS: reg. $94.99, on sale $79.99#3000 EMD F3-Ph3, F7-Ph1, 36" low fans, 36" dynamicbrake, 3 portholes, horiz grilles#4000 EMD F7-Ph1 (late), F7-Ph2, F9, 36" low fans, 48"dynamic brake, 2 portholes, Farr (vert) grillesAll kits include brass etched grills, appropriate detailedparts, and preformed grab irons for indicated model.These kits include only the parts above the frame.
A Backwoods SawmillCharlie FlichmanI wanted a small sawmill for one of the sidings on my On3Rio Grande Southern layout. At the 2003 National NarrowGauge Convention, Sierra West was showing their new sawmillequipment kits, former produced by CHB. You can see photosof all of these kits by going to [www.sierrawestscalemodels.<strong>com</strong>]. These kits really look nice, but I was unsure of whatpieces I wanted. Years ago, I had purchased one of KeystoneLo<strong>com</strong>otive Works’ Danby Sawmill kits, which was producedin 1978. Upon looking over the kit, I decided that parts of itwere not up to today’s standards for detail. I decided to use thesteam engine and a lot of the small details included with theDanby kit, but decided to replace the husk (saw) and log carriagefrom the Danby kit with the same from Sierra West Models.In reviewing the rest of the Sierra West sawmill equipment,there was a carriage drive with hardware and a sawdust blower,live-rolls, a cutoff saw and dead-rolls, a log turner, log deck,a log haul, an edger and overhead line shaft system. Now thequestion to be answered was, “What do I want to include in mysawmill?”One of the fun parts of the hobby for me is to research aproject. I collected all of the magazine articles on sawmills thatI had, to determine what equipment to include in my sawmill.Mine was not to be a full blown mill with all of the trimmings.I didn’t want a log pond as I didn’t have the room for one inthe area that this mill was going located. Therefore, I didn’tneed the log haul equipment, which is what is used to get thelogs from the pond up to the log deck. My mill wasn’t going toproduce finished lumber, so the edger equipment that trims theboards to a finished width was not needed. This mill will provideties and rough cut lumber.The Narrow Gauge & Short Line Gazette carried a series ofarticles, called “The Sawmill Chronicles” (from July 1984 toMarch 1986), covering the construction of the then CHB sawmillequipment kits, so I won’t repeat any of that here. Thesearticles proved to be very helpful in determining what pieces Iwanted and didn’t want. I made a preliminary plan as to whatwould fit into my allotted space. Then, a phone call was madeto Sierra West and I purchased the kits for the husk, carriagedrive and hardware, live-rolls, cutoff saw and dead-rolls, logturner, log deck and overhead line shaft system.I built the husk, the log carriage, and the table parts of thelive and dead-rolls. The live-rolls are powered, which gives themtheir name, and the drive shaft for these rolls is contained withinthe floor joists of the mill. The articles in the NG Gazettes andthe Sierra West manual show that some of the wood supportparts of these models are dummies, and they will be replaced byparts of the sawmill structure that you are building. Both of theseresources build the equipment free of the sawmill structure. Oneof the articles in the Gazette series built the floor support struc-Fig. 120 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
ture, but never got around to fitting the equipment into the millor building the mill itself. After building the above four pieces, Idecided that it was time to see how much space these, and theother pieces of equipment that were to be included in my sawmill,were going to take. Using a CAD program, I drew the husk,log carriage, live-rolls and the dead-rolls in 1/1 scale (full size).I then inserted these pieces into another drawing such that theycould be moved around. Other details such as the 42” gauge logcarriage track, the floor joists to support the rails, and the floorjoists to support the husk, live-, and dead-rolls, were added tothe drawing. Allowing some space for operation and the steamengine from the Danby kit, I arrived at the overall size of thebuilding floor plan. This plan was printed out in 1/4” scale anda cardboard template was made the size of the floor plan. Thenit was tested in the allotted space on the layout. I found that if Iflipped this cardboard template end-for-end, the sawmill wouldfit in the allotted area! This flip moved the log deck from one endof the plan to the other end (Fig 1). Photo 1 shows the allottedlayout space for the sawmill. The base for this area was formed1by cuttingand gluingseveralpieces ofStyrofoamtogether.The resultwas shaped,and scenerywas addedto it, to fit inthe area.All ofthe woodused in thismodel isfrom Mt.Albert <strong>Scale</strong> Lumber [www.mtalbert.<strong>com</strong>]. I colored all of mywood before starting construction. I like to use felt-tip pens fromartist supply stores to color my wood. This particular model iscolored with Prismacolor Cool Grey 50% (PM-112). Photo 2shows the sawmill area with the 10” x 10” footings and crosspiecesin place. The 4” x 10” floor joists were installed next,and were doubled up under the carriage track. A 6x6 board wasadded on top of the floor joists for the Code 55 rail to sit on.These rails were treated2with “Hobby Black”before being installed.The floor joists on theequipment side werespaced to give supportto the husk, live- anddead-rolls. The rest ofthe joists were spacedequally (Photo 3). Floorboardswere added inthe area of the husk.While setting myhusk, log carriage, andlive-rolls in place (todetermine where thebelt drives would gothat operate this equipment),something didn’tlook correct. I discoveredthat by flipping mycardboard template for a betterfit into my allotted space, I3flipped the log flow. The huskbuilt using the Sierra Westinstructions assumed thatyou were building what I willcall a right-hand sawmill. By“right-hand”, I mean that bystanding on the opposite sideof the carriage tracks from theequipment, the log flow isfrom left to right. But, my logflow is now from right to left.My sawmill is a “left-hand”sawmill. The husk, built perthe instructions, is for a righthandsawmill. My husk wasbuilt backwards! I normallyused five-minute epoxy toassemble models of dissimilarmaterials, but this time Iassembled the husk using CA.I don’t favor CA, but was trying a new brand. The husk cameapart, just having to soak two or three parts in acetone to freethe CA. The reassembled husk got epoxied. I took the diagramfrom the Sierra West instruction manual and ran it through myscanner. I then printed out a mirror image of the diagram and Ihad a right-hand husk. The saw is the only piece of equipmentthat has a right- or left-hand mode. The blade guide was theonly part that had to be modified. I was able to twist the guidepart 180 degrees without breaking it.It then began to bother me that I might be building somethingthat never existed, a left-hand sawmill. I went to the On3 chatgroup on Yahoo, and questioned whether such a sawmill existed.I got a reply from a noted logging expert, stating that therewere two sawmills in Oregon with similar equipment and oneflowed from left-to-right and the other from right-to-left. I felt alot better about my flipped sawmill.Two shafts extend out from under the husk, one to drive thelog carriage and the other one to operate the sawdust blower.The carriage driveshaft ends just short of the log carriage trackwith a pinion gear on it. This meshes with a gear on the carriagedrive-rope drum shaft. A hole has to be drilled in the 4” X 10”track support joists to pass this drive shaft through. The sawdustblower driveshaft has to go through both 6 x 6 boards supportingthe rail. These holes were located and drilled using the huskitself. After these holes were located, the husk was glued inplace. Photo 4 shows a closeup of the husk, carriage drive, and4Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 21
sawdust blower shafts.. The sawdust blower is just to the right ofits shaft. Note the black piping from under the saw to carry thesawdust to the blower. The cable, used to move the log carriageback and forth, is 0.022” rope used for ship rigging.The next piece of equipment I constructed was the log deck.As mentioned previously, I didn’t want a log pond (as my spacedidn’t allow it), so my sawmill is supplied by truck. The finishedproduct will ship by rail. I built the log deck as shown in Photo5. The footings and crosspieces are 12” x 12” lumber. The logdeck slope boards are 6” x 12” topped with Code 70 rails to52 x 6 studding with 2 x 12 sheathing. A few years ago, someoneobtained some old paint from the railroad and the outsides of thewalls were painted freight car red. The front wall of the sawmill isto be open, just using 10” x 10” framing.At this point, I decided that the interior should be detailedbefore it became a problem getting to the inside. Having a Western<strong>Scale</strong> Models Machine Shop Small Tools and Accessorieskit, I used some of the <strong>com</strong>ponents from it for my interior. Extrasaw blades and handsaws from Echo Mountain were also used indetailing the sawmill. Several folding chairs produced by CircusCraft were added. Photo 7 shows the model up to this point.After these walls were in place, the cutoff saw and the log7save wear and tear from the logs. The three log stops and associatedsteam cylinder were added with a steam line connection.I did not use the log kicker and steam cylinder that came as apart of the Sierra West Log Deck kit. The method used to get thelogs up on the log deck will be discussed later.The next equipment to be set in place are the live-rolls. Aftera piece of lumber is cut off the log, it falls onto the live-rolls. Asmentioned before, these rolls are powered, so that the operatorcan move the cut lumber up to the cut-off saw in order tocut the board to the desired length. The powering apparatus forthe live-rolls is located in the floor of the mill. After marking thelocation of the live-rolls, the powering mechanism was installed.Some sections of the floor joists had to be removed to provideclearance for parts of the live-rolls’ drive mechanism (Photo6). Floorboards were now added to the rest of the floor areaof the mill. The tables for the live-rolls and the dead-rolls wereinstalled.We are now at the point of building the walls for the sawmill.The cutoff saw hangs from the roof joists, and fits into the gapbetween the live- and dead-roll tables. Holding the assembledcutoff saw over the gap between the roll tables, the bottom of theroof joists was determined to be at a 10’ 3” height. The back wallsare near the mainline of my On3 railroad, so I decided to makethem solid except for a door. The end wall between the husk andthe log deck was also made solid. These walls were built up using6turner were installed. The cutoff saw was hung as shown inPhoto 8. The log turner is used to rotate a log on the log carriage,so it is situated over the centerline of the log carriage. It8and its rafters were installed, as shown in Photo 9.It is now time to figure out how the different drive-belt922 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
assemblies will fit into the ceiling of this building. There is along shaft parallel to the carriage track, that contains pulleys thatdrive the cutoff saw, the live-rolls and the log turner. This shaftis driven by a miter gear. A perpendicular shorter shaft containsthe connecting miter gear and its drive-wheel. This drive-wheelis driven by another drive-wheel from the main power supplyshaft. I determined that the main supply driveshaft and its pulleyswere too large to be placed in the ceiling. I went back tomy CAD program and designed a framework that sits over thesteam engine to support the shaft and pulleys. Photo 10 showsthese shafts, miter gears and the supporting framework with theDanby kit steam engine.With the interior now finished, it is time to build the roofs. I10was airbrushed with thinned gray primer followed by somethinned rust. The aluminum was then cut into approximately 3’x 6’ sheets. After they were in place, they were weathered usingpowdered chalks dissolved in alcohol. The finished roofs showin Photo 13.An old Hetch Hetchy kit steam boiler was installed outsidethe rear door to supply steam for the steam engine. I ran a13lagged steam pipe from the boiler to a point under the flooringof the sawmill. Photo 14 shows the boiler.As mentioned earlier, some method was needed to get the14went back to my CAD program and drew up plans for each ofthe roof rafters. Using these plans, I made a fixture to build therequired number of roof rafters for each roof. The rafters for thesmall end section of the sawmill were glued in place. I added2 x 12 sheathing on about three-foot centers to support the corrugatedaluminum roofing (Photos 11 and 12). The rafters for thelarge roof were clamped in place with tweezers, and the sheathingwas applied in the same manner. The corrugated aluminum11logs up on the log deck. My solution is a stiff leg derrick. TheNovember, 1983, issue of the NG Gazette has drawings of astiff leg derrick used on the Yreka Western railroad, drawn byAl Armitage. This was used as the basis for mine. I purchased aKeil Line stiff leg derrick kit, but the metal parts were the onlypieces that I used due to the slope of the land. Photo 15 showsthe derrick in place, waiting for the next truck to arrive. Photos16 and 17 show the overall mill.1512The next time you need a lineside industry for your layoutand there aren’t any kits matching what you envision, designyour own using available detail parts. Scratchbuilding is stillMar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 23
alive, it’s fun and produces a one-of-a kind of industry for yourrailroad. Try it, you might like it.u16New! O <strong>Scale</strong> BirneyThis is a true O <strong>Scale</strong> 1:48 model. The die wasmade from the drawings of a real Birney!17The model <strong>com</strong>es with a <strong>com</strong>plete interior, less powertruck and lighting package: $35.95. We expect a 4-wheelpower truck kit in mid-April, followed by the lighting kit.Pa Heritage Models Ltd.715 Ridgeway Road, Birdsboro, PA 19508www.paheritagemodels.<strong>com</strong>NEW!O-SCALE!MODEL BUILT BYCHICK SWEENEYRagg’s...To Riches?499 DAVIS HILL ROADMIDDLEBURY CENTER, PA(570) 376-2025SMALL BOILER HOUSEINCLUDES BENCH, COAL BIN,AND FIVE DETAIL CASTINGSONLY $25!For more fine O-scale structurekits, please visit our website:www.raggstoriches.bizADDITION CANBE BUILT SEPARATELYHOTEL LEMMONFROM MANCOS, COLORADOO-<strong>Scale</strong>: $105FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OF $50 OR MOREMAIN STRUCTURE MEASURES 5 1/2” X 9” DEEPPLACERVILLE DEPOTO-<strong>Scale</strong>: $175...the FINEST engineered,laser-cut kits you can buy!MAIN STRUCTURE MEASURES 7 1/2” X 16 1/2” LONG24 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
Turnout JigTed HorvathMy switching layout will use Code 125 House of Duddy flextrack and BKEnterprises turnouts. These products both use Micro Engineeringrail, and match up perfectly. I got some BKturnout kits and found that, in many cases, the stock 1rails were warped with an upward bend. This may havehappened when the rails were ground for the points tofit. I was not able to straighten them with any amount ofclamping or reverse bending, nor could I convince myselfthat spiking the rails to the ties would hold them downfor long, if at all. Thus, I decided to solder the rails toprinted circuit (PC) board ties, which could then be attached(with screws if necessary) to the roadbed.The turnout jig shown here was constructed to facilitatemaking numerous turnouts; it will make #5 and #6,left and right turnouts. The turnout jig is made of 3/8”square brass tubing, 15” long for the bases, and 3/16”square brass tubing, four inches long, for the crossmembers.I made a turnout tie pattern diagram and2used it select positions for the PC board ties; the crossmembers were soldered in those positions. You may findit easier and just as accurate to use a piece of flextrackto identify the cross member/PC tie positions. I use fivePC ties for a conventional turnout (one track straight andthe other curved). In Photo 1, the cross members indicatethe positions of the PC ties. From left to right, Positions1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 are used for a #5 turnout, and Positions 1,2, 3, 5, and 7 are used for a #6 turnout. The wire betweenPositions 1 and 2 indicates the location of the throwbar. Imade the jig with one base piece flush to the ends ofthe crossmembers and used a handy 2-1/2” board as a 3spacer between the base pieces. The jig could be madewith the crossmembers flush to the base piece on bothsides, or overhanging on both sides. Left turnouts aremade with the flush side nearest you, and right turnoutswith the overhang side nearest; the jig works equally wellfrom either side.Clamp some PC ties to the crossmembers with suitableclamps. I use small alligator clips on the flush ends andrubber bands on the overhang ends. It is easier to cut electricalisolating gaps in the PC ties before, rather than after,the turnout is made. Using track gages, solder the turnout<strong>com</strong>ponents to the PC ties; do not solder the point rails tothe PC tie in Position 2. Photo 2 shows a <strong>com</strong>pleted #6 righthandturnout on the jig. When soldering is done, remove the clamps, pop the turnout off the jig, and trimthe PC ties to appropriate lengths.Although the initial reason for using PC ties was to deal with warped rails, a secondary benefit occurswhich, in itself, makes the jig worthwhile. Once soldered to the PC ties, the turnout rails are permanentlyin gauge. This opens up several options. You can spike the turnout to ties that have been secured to theroadbed, or spike the turnout to ties and later drop the whole assembly into place. Since the rails are fixedin gauge, track spikes do not serve a structural purpose and be<strong>com</strong>e essentially ornamental. This greatlysimplifies and speeds the spiking process, and allows you to use small spikes for a better appearance.Although it takes a bit of time to make this jig, the convenience and speed it gives to making turnoutswill repay the initial effort many times over. Good luck and have fun!uMar/Apr ’07- O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 25
www.bantamodelworks.<strong>com</strong>B R U M M Y ’ SPREMIUM GROUNDRUBBER BALLAST<strong>Scale</strong> or Hi-Rail Size:Limestone White, Gray NewEarth Colors! (All sizes) Dry Dirt,Rich Dirt (Darker), Sand BoxBeige (Brighter) Coal - All Sizes.WE NOW TAKE VISA, M/C, and AMEXPhone: 330-825-3673Fax: 330-825-0214200 23rd St. NW • Barberton, OH 44203email: Dbrumagin4@netscape.netCURVESINONEPIECEtotheradiusofyourFlex,Sectional,orHandLaidTrackNOSANDINGNOSEALINGmadeintheUSASilver Plume Houselaser cut wood building kit desinged from theoriginal building in silver Plume Colorado,the kit features laser lattice and picket fenceand reasonalby easy assembly...footprint is 8 1/2” x 9 1/4”#6091 O scale $134.95421 Hopkins RoadDummerston, VT05301800-653-8214Samples?Specifyscale/gauge (2railor3rail)andsend$1cashtoHOBBYINNOVATIONSDeptAPOBox676MountainCityTN37683RemoteControl Systemsof New EnglandSales and Service East of MississippiRemote Controls for “O” <strong>Scale</strong><strong>Trains</strong>. Batteries, Chargers,Sound Systems, and Installations.Systems starting at $170Don SweetPhone: (603) 321-1347Email: dsweet@rcs.mv.<strong>com</strong>www.remotecontrolthrottles.<strong>com</strong>RTR ‘O’ <strong>Scale</strong> Freight CarsWooden Reefers 2 road numbers eachRC-0519 PFE 47' double colored herald, Dec.RC-0543 PFE ‘Meat Service’ 47' double coloredherald, Dec.10,000 Gallon Tank Cars 4 road numbers eachRC-0351 UTLX black Type 103 W, Jan.RC-0352 SHPX black Type 103 W, JanRC-0380 Warren* silver Type 103 W, JanRC-0369 Richfield* black Type 103 W, Jan*Indicates this is an older kit made into RTR.Visit our web site at www.red-caboose.<strong>com</strong> • Couplers are included for consumer to installSP & PFE are registered trade marks of Union Pacifi c, used under license.Red Caboose, P.O. Box 200, La Salle, Colorado 80645 • 970-284-6830 • Fax 970-284-6812 • StackTalk@aol.<strong>com</strong>26 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’0742' 10" Flat Cars 4 road numbers each nameRC-0262 NYC (brown) Sept.RC-0273 U. S. Army (OD green) Sept.RC-0264 N.P. (black) Sept.RC-0269 PRR (oxide) Nov.RC-0272 SP (brown) Nov.
Building a Small O <strong>Scale</strong> LayoutPart FourteenMichael CulhamOur walls are all done and ready tobe put together into a finished building(Photo 1).1grimy black paint onto the backs of thewindow glaze (Photo 4). This keeps you478Before doing this, there are a fewthings that have to be done. The first isthe glazing in the windows. To do this, Itook some clear 0.015” styrene sheet, cutit into panels measuring 2-1/4” x 3-1/2”,and laid them over the window areas onthe back of the walls. I then ran some liquidplastic cement around the edges; thecement will creep in under the sheet andbond it to the walls (Photo 2). The next2step is to take some 0.125” x 0.125” styrenestrip and glue it along the joint linebetween the cornice and the wall material(on the back of the wall, of course).Photo 3 shows this step; these strips are3from seeing into an empty building. Now,if you are very ambitious, you couldmake a full interior for your factory andnot paint the backs of the windows. Me?I’ll paint them. By the way, in Photo 4you can see that I painted the brick coloralong the top inside edge of the wall,above the roofline. This is only done onWall #1, because it is the only wall youcan see the back of.With all these little chores out of theway, we are now ready to put the wallstogether into a building.Putting the Building TogetherThe first thing I did was to glue Walls#1 and #2 together (Photos 5 & 6). Then,56some large X-Acto clamps to hold thewall sections while gluing them together.This helps to hold them at right angles, aswell as holding them tightly together fora strong joint. With the walls clamped, Iran some liquid plastic cement down thejoint, then glued a strip of 0.125” x 0.125”styrene along the inside joint to help supportit. Once the glue has set, remove theclamps. I had a slight problem with a gapat the corners of Walls #1 and #2 (Photo9). This was quite easily fixed by a trick Ilearned years ago. Make a downspout torun along the gap, using a piece of wire orstyrene rod (Photo 10). No more ugly gap.910necessary to support the roof when weget it made. The last thing I do is to paintI did the same with Walls #3 and 4. Theseare the walls that are at right angles. InPhotos 7 and 8, you can see that I usedMar/Apr ’07- O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 27
Next we have to glue walls togetherat the joint between Walls #2 and #3. Tomake sure that I have the angle, I put allthe walls together in the location on thelayout. This way, I know that the wallangles are correct. I then clamped thewalls together, ran some glue down thejoint, and let it dry. Our building walls areall together now (Photo 11), but there are1114150.040” thick. Photo 18 shows you howthey are made. The dock can be made to18still some things missing, like the roof andthe shipping docks.Making a RoofRemember back in Part 11 of thearticle, I said you needed a large sheet of0.040” styrene (2’ x 1’)? We’ll use that tomake the roof. Put the building upsidedownonto the styrene sheet, aligningthe edge of Wall #1 to the corner of thesheet and running the same wall alonga straightedge (Photo 12). Now, tracealong the inside of the walls with a pencil(Photo 13). Once this is done, cut out1213the roof section from the sheet and glueit into place on the building (Photo 14).When the glue sets, you can paint it withPolly <strong>Scale</strong> Grimy Black paint (Photo 15).I find that this color gives the effect of atar-and-gravel roof.Now, it’s time to add some details. As28 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’0716you can see in Photo 16, I’ve put on someroof vents (Berkshire Valley #409 CycloneVents) and a chimney made from twoGrandt Line chimneys spliced together.The last detail is a water tower, which ismade by Walthers for HO, It is assembledper the instructions, and the only modificationwas to cut out every other rung onthe ladder. I painted it in the same greenas the windows and doors. Well, the roofis done, so now we’ll turn our attention tothe docks.Making the DocksThe two docks that you can see inPhoto 17 are made from some scraps of17styrene. The top is made from 0.060”thick sheet and the sides and front arewhatever size you need; if you want oneto run the length of the wall, go ahead.Mine were made to be a little wider thanthe dock door. I painted them with Poly<strong>Scale</strong> Concrete, then gave them a chalkwash once the paint had dried. Theywere then glued in place. The other littledetail is the two lamps over the docks,made from Grandt Line lampshadesand a piece of brass wire. Once theywere painted, a hole the size of the wirewas drilled into the wall and the lampssecured with CA glue.The building is now finished, put intoplace and the scenery around it finishedoff (Photo 19). As you have seen from19the four parts of my article, constructinga DPM building is not that difficult.All that is needed is a little patience andtime. About 25 hours was spent makingthis building but, as you can see in Photo20 on the next page, it was worth it.Although it is a backdrop building, it addsso much to the scene.We have covered trackwork, scenery,and buildings so far in this series. The onething that is still missing is something thateveryone will need on their layouts. Weneed roads for the automobiles. In thenext three parts of this series, I will showyou how to make grade crossings, andhow I make and finish roads.So until next time...Happy Modeling.u
20*Shipping:$5.95 for 1 car; $6.95 for 2 or 3 carsAvailable in two road numbersPayPalSpecial Run Exclusive toPhiladelphia Quartz 70-ton Hopperamhobbiesonline.<strong>com</strong>3-Rail (8377)$51.95*6 Delmar Ridge Drive • Wellsboro, PA 16901(570) 723-18242-Rail (9377)$54.95*amhobbies2@hotmail.<strong>com</strong>Advertise inO <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong>!Reach 2-Rail and3-Rail scale modelerswho want whatyou have to sell.Contact Jeb Kriigel(<strong>jeb@oscalemag</strong>.<strong>com</strong>).Mar/Apr ’07- O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 29
Visit theO <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> Blogat www.oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>/wordpress/index.phpRegister today and you can <strong>com</strong>municate directly with OST’s regular columnists:Publisher, Joe Giannovario; Editor, Brian Scace; Hobo D. HiRailer; Gene Clements;Bobber Gibbs; Roger Parker; and Mike Cougill.Leave feedback, make suggestions, build on <strong>com</strong>ments others have left.Here's a chance to make your voice heard and contribute to OST at the same time.Check it out!30 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
VALLEYMODEL TRAINSPO BOX 1251, Wappingers Falls, N.Y. 12590Credit Card Orders Wel<strong>com</strong>eOrder/Info(845)297-3866 Fax(845)298-7746Laser-Art Structures O Laser Cut kits462Kit includes appropriatesigns and coal bin.401A <strong>com</strong>fortable,convenientcottage homeof six rooms,with Tower462 Flagstop Station O... 5" x 6" x 4" ............39.98 36.00401 Tower House O.. 10" x 7" x 12" .........179.99 161.98The prototype480for the kit wasbuilt at Clark’s,near CampbellHall, NY on theNew York,Ontario &Western RR.480 The Creamery O.....12" x 7" x 5".......199.98 179.98Crow River Products O....Crafstman kitsIncludes additionalwalls to increasethe size of themain building.(Tree notincluded)305B305B Barrett and Sharp.16"x16" approx .....265.00 225.00315Bar Mills Models O.. Laser Wood Kits with details934 944934 Saulena's Tavern O.... 5 3/4" x 11" net 99.98944 Majestic Hardwar & Feed O 9” x 12”net 169.98Rusty Stumps.. HO Limited Edition KitsK4502O56The Fall Creek Freight Depotis a laser cut craftsman kit.22' x 46' Footprint 5-1/2x11-1/2K4503K4502 Backwoods Water Tower O .............net 79.95K4503 Fall Creek Freight Depot O... ..........net 69.95Downtown Deco.... O Limited Edition Hydrocal KitsThe two buildings, Johnny Stechino's &Big Ed's, have a bit of something for everyone.Vehicle and figures not includedThis kit consists of CRP 305 SylvesterSupply Co. and the 305D Barrett &Sharp Diorama Kit.Includes 307Stainless SteelIndustrialSmoke Stackand anEyebrowMonitor forroof detailThis kit makes an eye-popping dioramaTwin Drum HoistingWinch O… The hoistingunit is based on a unitbuilt by American Hoist& Derrick. Although notan exact replica of theunit it's best featuresare included in thisunpainted model kit.Sale 62.60Electric Winch / CarPuller O - 12.004040 Johnny Stechino's & Big Ed's O ......89.95 81.00Add $6.00 S&H in 48 States • Others pay actualpostage cost • N.Y. residents add 8.25% sales tax.(prices are subject to change w/o notice)www.valleymodeltrains.<strong>com</strong>Now order online! valleymodeltrains.<strong>com</strong> Visit our website to see hundreds of HO and O <strong>Scale</strong> Craftsman Kits valleymodeltrains.<strong>com</strong> Now order online!The Public Delivery TrackLo<strong>com</strong>otives - 2 railAtlas..New 0-6-0's..PRR, CNJ, UP, CBQ..$479New..GP-15's, RSD-15's, RS-3's....$195RS-1..Rutland, CNJ, NH, RI, LIRR, WT..$249-$309SD-35..WM, N&W, SOU, CNJ, B&O..$249-$309GP-35's..GMO, RDG, WM, UP, GN, more..$249-$379Dash 8's..CSX, NYSW, UP, SP, BNSF..$249-$309GP-60, C424/425/628/630, SD-40, GP-9..$379-$419SW's..RR, LV, Rdg, CNJ, NYC, DL&W..$229-$299MTH..PRR H-3..$649, K-4..$599 CNJ P-47..$749Weaver....USRA Light Pacific.................$495VO-1000..B&O, CNJ, LV, Rdg, WP, MILW, NKP..$199RS-11..C&O, CNW, MEC, PRR..$199. U25B..$199Shaft drive RS-3's, FA/FB's..............$99-$150Passenger SetsGolden Gate..P70 4 car set..PRR, LIRR..$37980' Coachs..SP, SF, NH, NYC, UP, NP, GN, B&O, C&O,N&W, CP, more..$399. Matching 12-1 Sleepers..$95Weaver..B-60 Baggage..PRR, LIRR, N&W..$75Troop cars..Sleeper, Kitchen, Xprs, M/W..$49-$85K-line..NYC, Amtk, RG, NH, SF, UP, more ..callBox Cars - 2 railPecos River..SF, CBQ, NYC, WM, NKP, SP, B&O..$35Atlas..40' Woodside..B&M, B&O, C&O, CBQ, CNJ,CNW, CRR, D&H, EJE, FEC, MStL, NYC, N&W, PRR,P&R, RDG, SP, UP, WAG, WM, more..$40-$5540' Steel..Erie, NH, PRR, NYC, CNW, GN, more..$47-$5540' Trainman..B&M, MEC, LN, NYC, PRR, UP, more..$37X-29's..$55-$62 HyCubes..60'..$75. New 40'..$3750'..MILW, DH, NYC, BAR, MKT, SAL, SF, LN, NH..$49-$5553'..Aloha, Purina, B&M, BN, IC, CNW, FEC..$35-$4960'..C&O, CSX, B&O, EL, RG, Sou, NW, WM..$40-$50Weaver..ACL, ACY, BAR, B&O, B&M, CBQ, CIM, CNJCN, CP, CV, CR, D&H, DTSL, EL, GN, IC, Rdg, LV, PCL&N, MEC, MP, NYC, N&W, NH, PHD, more $20-$30Refrigerator Cars - 2 railWeaver/Crown..B&M, BN, CV, CN, NYC, REA,Dubuque, Nrn Refrig, WIF, PRR..25+ roads..$20-$3057' Mech..PFE, BN, WFE, Trop..10+ roads..$35-$45Atlas..40' steel..BAR, IC, MDT, ART, DLW..$5536' & 40' wood..Erie, NYC, CNW, SF, PFE, Bananas,Meats, beers, foods..25+ billboards..$45-$7540' plug door..NH, PRR, WM, WP, DTI, REAFGE, CNJ, NP, ATSF, NYC, SSW, ART, more....$37K-line..PFE, MDT, CNW, 15+ billboards..$35-$40Covered Hoppers - 2 railWeaver PS-2 and AC-2..BN, CBQ, CNW, CP, PRR,LNE, DLW, B&M, C&O, EL, LV, NH, NYC, more..$20-$3050' Centerflow or Grain..CR, CP, LV, NYC, PRR, RI,Rainbow, Dupont, ADM, Amoco, Arco, UP, more..$20-$25Atlas..ACF..Erie, DLW, GN, SP, WM, more..$55New..3 bay..UP. CBQ, Bakelite, Chessie..$37Cylindrical..DLW, CNJ, GN, PRR, WAB, NYC..$35-$45Airslide..LV, DH, CSX, PRR, Erie, SF, RG..$40-$50Hopper Cars - 2 railAtlas....New..3 bay..WM, C&O, SOU, BN...$37Ore cars..CN, UP, DMIR..$25. H21a..PRR..$58, PC..$452 bay..PRR, NYC, Rut, P&S, CNJ, Berwind, more..$45-$52Weaver..2, 3, 4-bay..30+ different roads....$20-$30Tank Cars - 2 railWeaver...40' & 50', new & old, 20+ roads...$30-$35Atlas..33K..CNTX, GLNX, Union Tex, Sub Propane..$4917K..Diamond, Hooker, Stauffer, ACFX, SHPX..$55-$608K..Bakelite, NE Alcohol, Phila Qtz, 10 more..$50-$5511K..SHPX, UTLX, Hooker, Solvay, Spencer, 10+ roads..$55Flat Cars, Stock CarsAtlas..Double stacks..$125-$169. Containers..$10-$25Front runner..$45. 89' flats..$50-$65. Trailers..$25-$35Stock cars..UP, MKT, DRGW, CNW, GN, PRR..$25-$37Weaver..Flat and stock cars...many roads..$20-$30Gondolas - 2 railAtlas..40' <strong>com</strong>posite..PRR, NYC, B&M, MP, C&O..$5250'..B&O, CNJ, GN, NW, NYC, PRR, Rdg, UP, LV..$37Wvr..CNJ, PRR, LV, RI, SF, UP, Rdg, NW, SOU..$27Cabeese - 2 rail, 3 rail scaleWvr..CR, Rdg, DH, Erie, PRR, Monon, more..$$25-$45K-line..B&O, EL, NYC, SOU, SF, UP, more..$48MTH..PRR, EL, NYC, C&O, Alaska, NH, more..$45-$60Atlas..RFP, Rut, RG, NH, SF, 15+ roads..$37-$70e-mail us at pdtrains@earthlink.netPO Box 1035 • Drexel Hill, PA 19026610-259-4945 • VISA•MC•DISC•AMEXBF&MBaldwin Forge & MachineBox 5, Baldwin MD 21013How can we help you? Custom machinework, 3-R to 2-R conversions for steam,diesel or electric. Driver castingsmachined. General repairs to O <strong>Scale</strong> lo<strong>com</strong>otives.Call Joe, evenings 7 to 9 PM.410-592-5275 or rrjjf@aol.<strong>com</strong>Mar/Apr ’07- O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 31
The Art of FinescaleMichael CougillJigsAs outlined in the last issue, I’m scratchbuilding amodern boxcar. I’m also taking the time up front tobuild (and, in some cases, rebuild) several jigs that willhelp the project go much smoother.A lot has been written about using jigs as modelingaids when scratchbuilding, and I couldn’t agree withthe practice more. Some folks may feel that constructinga jig is a waste of time. Nonsense! Anytime youhave to make more than one of an item, you’ll actuallysave time by using a jig. For example, I’ve made jigsfor doing grab irons, one right- and one left-hand jigfor aligning and drilling the holes in the car sides, anda third for forming the grab iron itself. The hole-drillingjigs have stops on the back to line them up properlyon the car side. I’ll do another one for the stirrup stepsand maybe one for the door <strong>com</strong>ponents. I’ve eventhought of doing up a jig to line up the ribs for the carsides. None of them are fancy, just some scraps of styrenebuilt to the proper dimension. The photos will tellyou all you need to know.The jigs are a good place to record the size of wireused for the grabs and the drill bit size needed for theholes; just write it all down on the jig face with a sharppermanent marker. All sorts of other useful informationcould be noted on them as well. If you’re like me,your memory gets creative as the years pass, and theselittle bits of information get lost.If you do build a jig or two for a project, there’sno sense in building one if it’s inaccurate in someway. You’ll just be duplicating your error throughoutthe model. Take the time to get it right in the firstplace, even if it means having to redo the thing severaltimes. I’ll have to do that with the drilling jig, asI found an error in the rib spacing on my mockup ofthe carside. Time spent up front to get things right willbe time well spent, and make the modeling processmore enjoyable.u32 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
Norm’s O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong>New Model From Atlas O • EMD F2/F3 Phase 1Highly detailed body with road-specific details. Available inA and B unit versions, powered and unpowered. All metalgrab irons. Die-cast metal chassis, fuel tank and trucks. Twinflywheel-equipped motors. Directional golden-white LEDlighting. Accurate paint and lettering. Close-coupling betweenunits. 3-Rail units include: EOB, TMCC, RailSounds, andelectro-couplers. 2-Rail Silver includes: All wheels insulatedw/8-wheel pickup, DCC-ready, operating Diesel exhaust unit.2-Rail Gold includes: all Silver features plus, QSI DCC withauthentic Diesel sounds, Doppler effect, air let-off in neutral,coupler impact sounds, helper mode and more.Roads available: CB&Q, NYC, RI, B&M, Lackawanna, Sou,and undecorated, A and B units. Two road numbers each.2R Gold or 3R w/sound, List $480 — SALE $409 +$15 s&h2R Silver, List $420 — SALE $359 + $15 s&h2R/3R Unpowered, List $200 — SALE $179 + $15 s&hRESERVE NOW! Norm’s O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong>, PO Box 147,41 Roosevelt Trail (Rt 302), S. Casco ME 04077207-655-2550 • info@normsoscale.<strong>com</strong>Outstanding quality that would appeal to even the mostdiscriminating scale modeler. Hand carved natural cedartrunks and finely detailed pine boughs.Lodgepole pine is a species which grows throughout thewest, as far north as the Yukon and south to BajaCalifornia. It ranges east to the Black Hills of South Dakotaand west all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Sierralodgepole pine typically grows to a height of 90 to 100feet and an average diameter of 16 inches or greater.GC1039 5 Small Lodgepole Pines 4½-5” ....... $30.00GC1040 3 Medium Lodgepole Pines 8-9” ...... $30.00GC1041 2 Large Lodgepole Pines 10-11” ..... $30.00GC1042 1 X-large Lodgepole Pines 16-18” ... $30.00Lodgepole <strong>Scale</strong> Chart<strong>Scale</strong> for 90’ Tree Trunk HeightN-<strong>Scale</strong> 1:160 N/A N/AHO-<strong>Scale</strong> 1:87 ¼” 9”S-<strong>Scale</strong> 1:64 ½” 16½”O-<strong>Scale</strong> 1:48 ¾” 18½”175 Sheffield Dr #100, Delmont, PA 15626 • (724)-468-3106Visit Our Web Site: www.scenicexpress.<strong>com</strong>Please add $7.79 shipping. PA residents add 6% state sales tax.Request FREE #14 Catalog with order or send $4.00 to cover postage.Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 33
MTH 2-Rail Lo<strong>com</strong>otivesATSF Northern $1150CNJ Blue Comet $1200CNW Streamlined Hudson $900C&O Greenbrier $975C&O Steam Turbine $1100NKP Berkshire $1100PRR T-1 #6110 $1200N&W Class A 2-6-6-4 $1150SP AC-6 Cab Fwd $975SP 4-8-4 Daylight $1250UP Big Boy 4-8-8-4 $1350UP Gas Turbine 3 units $850Weaver 2-Rail BrassPRR K4 F/P Early $1100PRR K4 C/P ’35-’41 scheme $1400PRR K4 C/P ’42-’57 scheme $1400PRR L1 F/P $950RDG G1sas Crusader #117 or #118 $1200RDG Crusader 5-car passenger set as-built $750RDG Crusader 5-car set with corrected glazingand shades $950Other 2-Rail BRASSUSH PRR K4 C/P Full Striping $1650USH NYC Dreyfus Hudsoncustom ptd first scheme $1850OMI MILW 4-4-2 Hiawatha C/P #1 $1750PSC SOU Ps4 F/P Cresc Ltd. #1393 $2500WMS L5 Rdg Camelback C/P $750WMS SP Daylight 4-8-4 F/P $11002-Rail DIESELAtlas GN SW8 Grn/Orng $350MTH PRR Centipedes $1250MTH ATSF F3 Warbonnet paint $500MTH T&P GP9 $3253-Rail <strong>Scale</strong> SteamLIONELSou Ts-1 4-8-2 detailed $1000N&W Class A 2-6-6-4 NIB $1000NYC Custom J1e Scullin disc PT Tndr $1400N&W K2 4-8-2 custom $1250N&W Y3 2-8-8-2 $1100VGN 2-8-4 $1000WeaverPRR Std K-4 F/P $950PRR K-4 C/P Early Low Tdr Striping $1450PRR K-4 C/P 36-41 Condensed Ltr $1250PRR K-4 C/P 41-47 Expanded Ltr $1250PRR K-4 C/P 47-57 Modern Solid Pilot $1350NHWWW.OSCALEREALISM.COM2-Rail STEAMPRR E-6 C/P Late #6513 $950 MTHPRR B-6 C/P Dull #5244 $750 MILW Bipolar $775PRR L-1 C/P Dull Dg’ Tdr #714 $950 NH E3B $700PRR L-1 C/P West Tdr #7345 $1100 NH EP-3-M’Ginnis $875PRR K-4 Custom Modern #646PRR GG1-Tuscan 5 $675Sound Smoke $1250 ConRl GG1 Blue $700SOU Ps-4 Custom w/Elesco systemGreen w/Stripes #6689 $1250 K-LineN&W Class A 2-6-6-4 Detailed $1350 NH EP5 $350N&W J 4-8-4 C/P #600 “dull” $650 RDG MU 70' TT green pwr/dum $375B&A Custom 4-6-4, brass, upgraded $750 RDG MU 70' Blue/Wht pwr/dum $425PRSL MU 60' Tuscan w/poles $400I-4, 4-6-2 w/Elesco, long vandy tdr,sound, smoke $1500PRR A-5 0-4-0 F/P $800RDG G-1sas Crusader $1100RDG Matching Crusader Cars $600SAL C/P USRA 0-6-0 Sound $750SOU C/P 4-8-2 Grn Stripes $1500B&O C/P T-3 W/Vandy Sound Smoke $1750WM H-7 C/P Dull Alt # $750C&O 2-8-0 C/P Dull $750UP ’49er S/L 4-6-2 $1100WilliamsRDG L5 Camelback C/P $750Correct passenger cars are available for most lo<strong>com</strong>otives, custom and/or production. Inquire for availability.Railroad Collectibles, 86 W. Johnson St., Philadelphia, PA 19144Voice: 215-438-4330 • Fax: 215-438-7322 • Email:oguage.railroad@verizon.net34 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07Westside BrassRF&P Custom Governor 3-Rail ConversionSound Smoke Stripes Logo Etc. $2750Sunset/3rd RailPRR H-6 C/P Late Scheme $975PRR H-6 C/P PRSL #6016 $1075PRR E-6 F/P Sound $1150SP 4-4-2 Std $1000SP 4-4-2 F/P Daylight $1150UP 4-4-2 F/P $1050PRR Turbine – Upgraded $1000UP Big Boy W/ Sound $1950ATSF Northern $1200GN S-2 4-8-4 Glacier $1200Sou Custom 4-8-2 Grn w/stripes, Weavermotor and chassis, #6693 $1650N&W K3 4-8-2 Water Buffalo $1300MTHACL4-8-4 Custom Mod 8-WheelTender #1801 $1650ACL Custom 4-6-2 $750C&O 4-8-4 Greenbrier $975C&O Custom Greenbrier Early #605 $1250C&O Kanawah 2-8-4 w/Psgr Announ $1250DM&IR Yellowstone $1650N&W Class A Custom #1216 Correct& Detailed $1500N&W Streamlined J 4-8-4 $1100NYC Dreyfus Hudson $975UP Northern #8444 $1250PRR T-1 Duplex #6110 $1250CNW S/L Hudson $800ERIE Custom Superdetailed K-5w/Vandy Tdr $1650PRR Custom G-5 #5720 W/Brass Tdr $1100PRR K-4 Modified As K-3 C/P #9999 $1000RF&P 2-8-4 Custom Modified W/Striping $1450WM H-9 2-8-0 c/p dull #802 $9503-Rail <strong>Scale</strong> ElectricWeaverPRR GG1-Tuscan 1 Stripe $850PRR GG1-Silver $850WilliamsPRR GG1-Bruns 5 C/P dull $475PRR GG1-Tuscan 5 C/P dull $475PRR GG1- Tuscan dummy $200SunsetPRR P5A modified-sound $800LionelDL&W MU pwd & dummey $650DL&W MU <strong>com</strong>bine/coach dum $550L.I.R.R. custom pwd dum-Tuscan $9003-Rail <strong>Scale</strong> DieselAtlasGN SW8 Green/Orange $325AMTK DASH 8 #509 $395C&O RS-1 $375N&W SD-35 $375UP SW-9 $350WT (Wash. Terminal) RS-1 $400LIONELEL Alco PA A-A w/fact. sound $575MTHATSF F-3 A-B-A $700ATSF DL-109A/B custom fixed closed pilot $650B&O E-6 A-B custom fixed closed pilot $750B&O E-8 A-B-A $650C&O F-3 A-B $450C&NW DASH 9 $275FEC BL-2 $350GM&O GP-38 $300NYC E-8 A-A custom l/s $700MILW DL-109 $300NH DL-109/110-Custom pilot scale cplr $650PRR Centipedes-5 Stripe $1000PRR E-8 A-A custom Bruns 5 Stripe $700PRR E-8 A-A custom Tuscan 5 Stripe $700PRSL AS-616 custom #6000 $475SAL E-8 A-B-A Citrus Scheme $650SAL E-6 A-B custom fixed closed pilot $750SOU DL109/110-cust. ptd fixed pilot $700RDG GP7 cust pt 1st scheme #600 $475RDG GP7 cust. pt no dynam. #660 $525RDG Trainmaster 1st scheme #860 $550RI F-3 A-B-B-A $800RI E-8 A-B-A $695WeaverB&O VO 1000 $199C&O RS-3 $250C&O RSD5 $250C&O GP-38 $275UP E-8 AA $375WilliamsCustom E7 Diesels - All with fixed pilots, scalelead couplers and diaphragms.ACL AB $550B&M A unit $300CB&Q AB $550L&N AA $450Sou AA Custom Painted $650
Useful Info for the TransitionI used Ted Byrne’s simple DC rectifierset-up (November-December Issue) totemporarily power the layout sections asI convert to 2-Rail since all of the tworaillocos I have acquired are traditionalDC control. I use it in conjunction with aTroller Tac II power supply intended for3-Rail. I was concerned about getting apower supply to keep the transition moving,but this works fine. Thanks.The long letter containing re<strong>com</strong>mendationson techniques for flextrackinstallation was valuable. Also it wouldbe interesting to have a detailed descriptionof the construction technique usedon the industrial flats in the three-raillayout you featured, although the MaxtedHarpsichord factory was interestingin that it did address some methods forthe building flats.Von Richards (via email)…and About That 3-Rail Content (#1)In Issue #30, several readers and thepublisher <strong>com</strong>mented on the inclusionof an article by a Hi-Rail modeler. I firstheard of this magazine on a three-railforum and subscribed to it when I couldnot find it in our local hobby shop orbookstores. I feel that I can learn fromany publication about trains, model orreal. I read OST, MR, RMC, CTT, OGRand any others that I can find.The tone of several letters was belittling,seemingly, of anything that did notfit a given mold. The publisher made histhoughts, at least to me, very clear. Itdoes not bother me if CTT or OGR runssomething 2-Rail. I don’t think our hobbyis so large that we can ignore or belittlean aspect of our hobby in which we donot directly participate. I will continue toenjoy OST and play with my trains.Roger Roush (via email)3-Rail (#2)“Celebrating the Art of 1:48 Modeling”,where have I seen this in printbefore? Ah yes its stated proudly on thefront cover of every issue of O <strong>Scale</strong><strong>Trains</strong>. As I see it, It’s a mission statementof sorts for your fine magazine. Ithink this feeling is concurred by manyof your readers as we respect any modelercelebrating their art of 1:48 modeling,be it in 2-Rail standard-guage orProto48, outside third rail, On3, On30,monorail and yes even 3-Rail. I thinkanybody that creates their railroad withscale equipment in a scale environmentwith detail and realism such as NormCharbonneau’s layout is worthy to gracethe pages of this magazine. So Joe, Iwouldn’t worry about anybody being sonarrow minded as to ask for your headover Charbonneau’s masterpiece of 1:48modeling. I could definitely see hint ofinfluence reminiscent in the modelingstyle of George Selios’ Franklin & SouthManchester Railroad. Norm, we celebratewith you on outstanding modelingskills reflected in your GreenbrookeCentral Railroad. I do hope you alsoshare with us in future issues how youused Dan Machesky’s scratchbuildingideas to turn out some very convincingimages. Great photos! By the way whogets credit for the photography? Lightingwas great!Walter Horlacher, Coral Springs, FL3-Rail (#3)I wasn’t going to renew my subscriptionuntil I just received your latest issue(#29). The material content becamemuch more relevant to what I want toread about. I’m a 3-Railer and most anyrailroad publication, regardless of scale,usually is interesting to me. I even subscribeto an N <strong>Scale</strong> magazine becauseof their photographic efforts that helpillustrate scenery or some other subject.Anyway, I’ll try your magazine foranother year and see how the contentdevelops during that period.Michael Schafer, HI3-Rail (#4)I think your selective use of truly highlevel three-rail layouts is great.In fact, other than the middle rail, Idoubt your readers can tell one from theother. We know you can’t please everyonebut to exclude fine examples such asNorm Charbonneau or the Cheryl Valleywould do a disservice to many of yourreaders. I learn from both camps. In myopinion, this “scale thing” can be carriedto the extreme as evidenced by the referenceto the various rail codes used bysome modelers. There must be room inthis hobby for those of us who appreciatehighly skilled modeling, regardless ifit is 2- or 3-Rail.D. Gauss (via email)3-Rail (#5)In the last ten years, the so-called“toy trains” and the modelers who usethem to create model railroads, haveadvanced the art of modeling by usingscale (except for wheels) models andhave used the available fine buildings,scenic treatments and excellent trackplans to create fine model railroads. Onthe other hand, 2-Railers have been buyingand promoting ready-to-run equipment,ready-to-lay track and other fineitems offered by ever increasing manufacturersto create fine model railroads.As shown in the articles you have chosento print, the line between “toy” and“scale” has virtually disappeared. WhileI am most interested in seeing articlesabout my chosen corner of the modelingworld, it is always a treat to see finemodeling by anyone using whatever theychoose to use. Your treatment of the 3-Rail articles showed examples that anymodeler can use to improve his own creations.It is true that 3-Rail articles havegood coverage in other magazines, butthat does not preclude publishing qualitymodeling in this magazine.Second subject: your opinion pieceabout the NMRA. I don’t remember itever being stated better. That organizationneeds to present themselves in sucha way as to attract modelers not reformers.“Show me the money.”Gerald Brothers (via email)3-Rail (#6)I re-entered the model train hobby in1997 after an absence of about 40 yearssince <strong>com</strong>pleting a Lionel layout at agetwelve. I began by collecting MTH Premier3-Rail “scale” lo<strong>com</strong>otives. As myknowledge and interest redeveloped, Ibuilt a 12’ by 8’ Hi-Rail layout that was,for me, a learning experience in mostaspects of “near scale” model railroading.Space limitations constrain me towork in 3-Rail although I would prefer 2-Rail. I suspect that most readers of OST,like me, appreciate O-gauge “scale”model railroading irrespective of whetherit is done on two or three rails. Therefore,I see no reason why your excellentmagazine should not include both.Mel Garelick, Trumbull, CT3-Rail (#7)Just got the latest issue and I thoughtI would write one of the hundreds ofnotes you will get encouraging you tocontinue to feature impressive layoutslike Norm’s, whether 2-Rail or 3-Railscale, in future issues for the followingreasons:(continued on page 38)Mar/Apr ’07- O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 35
• Terrific inspiration and just plain funto look at• The magazine is O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> not2-Rail <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong>.• I model in 3-Rail scale, and enjoyseeing layouts in both 2-Rail and 3-Rail,the scenery and buildings are an inspiration.• Most of your “how-to” articles areappropriate for my layout, too.• Most of the layouts you featureactually have pictures in which onecan’t see the number of rails, includingpictures in this issue. If these guys thinkmodeling is all about the number of railsin the picture, say the center spread inIssue #23, they are missing the point ofO <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong>.• I subscribe to the magazine.• I buy from most of the suppliersthat advertise in the magazine, and, assaid countless times before, without us3-Rail scale guys buying products fromthese manufacturers, there wouldn’t beenough of a market of just 2-Rail scalebuyers to support the hobbyI wish these guys would chill.Stephen R. Nelson, Carmel, IN3-Rail (#8)After several years taking your magazine,I will decline [to renew] because ofyour Hi-Rail/3-Rail bias.E. Campbell, Calif.3-Rail (#9)I was going to let sleeping dogs lie,but you asked in “Observations” regardingthe 2-Rail versus 3-Rail articlesissue, so I will respond. My criterion iswhether the article contributes to myknowledge in some aspect of the hobby.If someone tells us how to build a reallygreat structure or background, and hislayout happens to be inside or outsidethird rail, I will not <strong>com</strong>plain. We havelearned much about modeling andoperations from the past masters whoworked in outside third rail (Armstrong,Ellison). I collected a number of articlesby Thornburgh from the NMRA Libraryback when I was a member. Surprisinglysome of his lo<strong>com</strong>otives were built forthird rail -- yet I learned a lot about metalworkingfor model building from all ofthose articles.The cautionary note here is to avoidthe OGR approach of having onlyarticles that are about layouts whichare merely display sites for collectionsof three-rail RTR equipment, track andstructures off the shelf. If there waseven an operating scheme presented,it might have redeeming value -- butthese are more like extensions of the38 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07product reviews. That is why I stoppedsubscribing about ten years ago. Manyof the vendors in which I would haveinterest would not advertise in OGR. Ofcourse, I like craftsman kits and articleson constructing rolling stock, buildingsor trackwork.By the way, the revision of your layoutin the OST Blog would have beenworthwhile for the magazine. I wonderedhow that was <strong>com</strong>ing along.Von Richards (via email)3-Rail (#10)On Page 20 of OST #30, you publishedthree letters from readers opposedto material about 3-Rail. I do not regarda one-page Hi-Rail column, occasionalarticles about well-sceniced Hi-Railmodel railroads, or articles about convertingthree-rail O <strong>Scale</strong> models to 2-Rail as heresy or any kind of threat to the2-Rail way of life.The wide variety of <strong>com</strong>mercialproducts available in O <strong>Scale</strong> today isa direct result of the increasing numberof Hi-Railers. Some of these people, Ibelieve, are supporting the O <strong>Scale</strong> magazinesbecause they want to learn moreabout scale modeling. I see no need toexclude or offend this group of seriousmodelers (who happen to run on threerailtrack). After all, the primary contentof [other O Gauge magazines] is materialrelated to toy trains, their layouts (asopposed to model railroads), and thecollecting of toy trains.I think that many 2-Railers today aresenior citizens that have built their layoutsand are well-saturated with modelsand un-built kits, not buying much newproduct. This group is thus providinglittle or no support to the <strong>com</strong>mercial O<strong>Scale</strong> manufactures and doesn’t reallyneed most of the information providedby the O <strong>Scale</strong> magazines. If the magazinesare to remain viable and able togrow, they need to appeal to youngermodelers, who are actively building andbuying, including HiRailers. After all,some of them may eventually be<strong>com</strong>e2-Railers!J W Mathews, by email(…and that is the end of that discussionin OST. -Joe G.)Looking for O <strong>Scale</strong>rs in NevadaI am a life member of the NMRA andwould like to set up a club in Pahrump,NV, that could meet and share ideasand have a show every once in a while.If there are any of you in Pahrump orout that way please drop me a line andmaybe we can get together and havea train show in this town. If there isenough interest we could have a layoutsomewhere in this growing town.Dan LePage[dan@emeraldstationstudios.<strong>com</strong>]A Staggering PhotoRead your “Easements” column inIssue No. 30 that arrived this afternoon.Another great issue! Prototype railroadsalso have the problem of joining railsof different weights and heights (versuscodes). They use special <strong>com</strong>promise railjoint-bars, made to fit left and right sidesfor the various sizes of rail that meet.Attached is a photo I shot in 1997 ofa <strong>com</strong>promise rail joint on the B&O inOhio, where 85 lb. per yard siding railsmeets the 110 lb. per yard mainline rails.The <strong>com</strong>promise rail joints are directlyopposite each other on the same tie,rather than staggered as in the usual USpractice. Note the rail bonds for the signalcircuit as well!Ed BommerCentral UpdateThought I would give an update towhat’s happening with “Central” thesedays. We have moved the shop to a newlocation but are still working on gettingthe place powered up. We are able tosatisfy some small part orders for now,but orders for built-up lo<strong>com</strong>otives won’tbe processed until sometime early ‘07.The website will be down for a timeas we are working to update it.We have had several inquires for theAAR-A (switcher) truck kits lately. Thepatterns for this truck are being updatedand as soon as everything fits up, wewill order castings for stock.We will be offering the entire steamline for sale again in the near future. Patterns,molds, dies, etc., for the Ps4, H-10,“X-Series” parts, as well as the 2-10-4,USRA Heavy Mike, NYC L2a, will beincluded. The stock is a mix of Central,Saginaw, <strong>Scale</strong> Craft and several patternmakers who supported the Central businessunder Bob Smith’s ownership.Plans for new Diesel models havebeen put on hold for the time being,but we will continue to produce currentcatalogued models (starting in early ‘07).Re-power gearbox orders and “2 railing”of other manufacturers’ models are
the larger part of Centrals’ business these days, rather thanthe high-priced brass sales of times past. The newer 3-Railscale stuff has shined a lot of light on O <strong>Scale</strong>, especially withaffordability. We think there’s still a niche for Central.Best to you and yours!Lou Houlemarde, Central Lo<strong>com</strong>otive Works, PO Box401231, Hesperia CA 92340clw2000@earthlink.netA Different TurnI loved the article about constructing the turntable (OST#29). It’s filled with good ideas. The only thing I question is themethod of transferring power to the turntable. Here are twoalternatives which I think are easier to build and more reliable:(1) Cut short pieces of copper water pipe and glue themonto the wooden dowel (for insulation). Arrange wipers tocarry current to the turntable. For a third circuit for lights, justadd one or two more pieces of copper pipe.(2) Go to Radio Shack and get the following parts: #274-0893 Adapter, $5. This has a male stereo plug on one endand two female mono jacks on the other. #042-2548, Y-cable,$6. This has a female stereo jack on one end and two 15-inchcables with male mono plugs at the other. Plug the stereoplug into the stereo jack and the two mono plugs into the twomono jacks, forming a loop. Cut the two cables anywhere inthe loop. Voila!! You now have a rotating electrical union withthree conductors. This is sufficient to provide track power andlighting to the turntable, if you use a <strong>com</strong>mon bus or <strong>com</strong>monrail system.Neither of these methods provides for reversing the polaritywhen the turntable rotates, but I don’t consider that necessary.I prefer to use a separate reversing toggle switch for the turntable.I would use a momentary-contact switch with a springreturnto “off” or “open” to operate the turntable. I would alsouse a momentary switch for each stall track. I think this wouldbe easier to operate and far easier to build and wire. It’s foolproof;you can’t leave the wrong stall track “on”.Ed Miller, Broomfield, CO.uMar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 39
AMERICAN "0" SCALEPROFESSIONALSERVICESLow-cost consignment sales.Purchase and sell quality “0” <strong>Scale</strong> brass and custom model trains.VISA, MasterCard & Lay-a-ways Accepted. Call for Terms.WE BUY BRASS TRAINS✰ Estate and collection liquidations✰ Locating services✰ Purchases of your new, used & unwanted equipment✰ Consignment sales✰ Layout dismantling services✰ Auction services✰ Collections Purchased✰ Cash Paid for new & used trainsCall days or early evenings...Bill DavisEmail bdavis148@aol.<strong>com</strong>Phone/Fax (262) 560-1619American “0” <strong>Scale</strong> Professional ServicesPO Box 575Waukesha, Wl 53187-057540 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
Narrow MindedBobber GibbsAre You a “Real” Model Railroader Yet?In my opinion, you might be a collector, model designer,manufacturer, importer, dealer, modifier, painter, repairer, kitbuilder, kit-basher, scratchbuilder, layout planner, electronicsexpert, railroad historian, researcher, writer or even an editor,but you do not be<strong>com</strong>e a real model railroader until you actuallyinstall miniature tracks between a terminal and a destinationand operate a model train on those tracks. Even a run of onlya few feet makes you a real model railroader in my book, andit tends to keep you enthusiastic about expanding. Of course,there are a lot of choices to consider before you decide whatkind of model railroader you really want to be.What’s Your (O <strong>Scale</strong>) Pleasure?If you read O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> regularly, you obviouslyhave an interest in standard-gauge trains. If you read this columneven occasionally, you might have at least a bit of interest innarrow-gauge trains. However, have you ever considered justwhat really gives you the most pleasure in our O <strong>Scale</strong> hobby?There are so many facets to model railroading that it isunlikely any two O <strong>Scale</strong>rs will share exactly the same interestsin the same order. Whether you are primarily a standard-gaugeror a narrow-gauger, you might learn some interesting thingsabout yourself by copying this page, circling the features thatmost interest you, and then listing them in the order of importanceto you. It might verify what you already know, or it mighthelp you to make some important decisions in the future.Interest Choices for an O <strong>Scale</strong> Model RailroaderRailroad Location – Asia, Africa, North America, SouthAmerica, Europe, Australia, otherScenery – mountain, snow, tunnel, snowshed, hill, valley,forest, flat, desert, seaside, riverside, port, city, town, village,ceramic village, industrial, farm, trackside, underground, otherEra – early steam, late steam, transition, early Diesel, contemporary,futureRailroad Type – Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, regional, shortline,high-speed, multiple mainline, single mainline, industrial, traction,mass-transit, trolley, tourist, museum, otherPrototype – early railroad, fallen line, merged line, shortline,industrial, imaginary, fantasy, otherGauge – wide, standard, narrow, multiple, mono, Proto48,Hi-Rail, otherMotive Power – human, animal, gravity, steam, air, electric,internal-<strong>com</strong>bustion, geared engine, otherPassenger – high-speed, long-haul, <strong>com</strong>muter, public transit,excursion, amusement park, otherFreight – long-haul, unit, container, dedicated, peddler,mixed, otherPrimary Commodity – gasses, liquids, chemicals, forestry,mining, raw materials, coal, ore, aggregate, manufacturedgoods, military, containers, trailers, mixed, otherLayout Size – special display, club (large, medium or small),personal (large, medium or small), demonstration, module,micro, otherLayout Style – island, around-the-walls, modular, multi-level,hidden stagingLayout Features – continuous run, point-to-point, majorengine facility, major passenger yard, major passenger terminal,major freight yard, multiple and smaller yards, realistic switchingoperations, steep grade, empties-in/loads-out operation,Fellowship – conventions, shows, clinics, meets, round-robin,Internet, lone-wolf, otherControl – central tower, multi-cabs, walk-around, AC, DC,DCC, battery, radio, <strong>com</strong>puter, electronics, signals, sound, lightingeffects, night operations, otherKit Assembly – lo<strong>com</strong>otive, passenger, freight, maintenance,structure, figure, animal, vehicle, machine, ship, boat, superdetailing,custom finishing, custom lettering, otherModifying Equipment – trucks, couplers, super-details, motorupgrade, lights, interior detail,Other – <strong>com</strong>puter simulation, recreate childhood memories,tribute to a family railroader, photography, scratchbuilding, moreThere might be some overlap, and I might have left out someobvious points, but there is enough here to give the modelerwho wants to be<strong>com</strong>e a real model railroader lots of choicesto ponder. In the next issue of O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>, I willinclude all of my choices in the order of their importance to me.I’ll also be pleased to include any that are sent in to me by any“real” model railroaders or anyone who is preparing to be<strong>com</strong>ea real model railroader. Remember, this is only my opinion andmy interpretation of a real model railroader. Your views mightbe different.Happy trains to you until we meet again.uARMSTRONG TOOL & SUPPLYSMALL TORCH with5 tips and hose. Use thetorch most used by jewelersto perform precisesoldering jobs. You canuse Oxy-Acetylene,Propane, MAPP or naturalGas. Regular: $139SALE: $99. Please add$7.95 for shipping.We accept Mastercardand Visa.▲For other modeling tools, check our website: www.armstrongtool.<strong>com</strong>Armstrong Tool & Supply Co, 31541 W Eight Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152800-446-9694 • FAX 248-474-2505 • armstools@hotmail.<strong>com</strong>Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 41
Eagle’s NestPaint Work — 2 weekdelivery possible*MiniaturesBrass Work — 4 weekdelivery possible*• Custom Painting • Brass Detail Upgrading •• DCC Installation • Repowering •• Sound Systems •Japanese Quality by an American CraftsmanEagle’s Nest MinaturesHarry A. Hieke, Jr.harrys_trains@<strong>com</strong>cast.net856-625-5506*Ask about our premium payment plan!TrinAmericaS T U D I O SYour Headquarters for2-Rail TMCC lo<strong>com</strong>otiveupgrades!www.tastudios.<strong>com</strong>330•533•7181 (weekdays)FOX HOLLOW MINING Co.set on flatsurface ormountainside, fullydetailedloadingbays.KIT #404Laser cut wood. Designed for easy assembly.Footprint: 23"L x 11"WM DEL TECH, Inc.for the SERIOUS modelerX 15"H. MORE INFO CALL7289 WESTFIELD ROADMEDINA, OHIO 44256PHONE 800 264-9845First ina seriesof <strong>com</strong>panionbuilding.TWIN WHISTLE SIGN & KIT CO.Buy Direct!31 Turnberry Drive, Arden, NC 28704 (828) 684-6785Footprint: 10” x 4.5”Buy Directly from our e-store!WWW.TWINWHISTLE.COM42 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07ASSEMBLEDBUILDINGS AREAVAILABLE!The Classic!Kit: $54.95• Pre-Cut Basswood Body• Complete Instructions• Assorted Castings• Wide Selection ofGraphics• Grandt Lines Doors &Windows• Scribed Interior Flooringe-mail:twinwhistle@hotmail.<strong>com</strong>
JOE AND JAINI GIANNOVARIOOne of the “issues” that came up during the developmentof the trackplan for the Coal Creek Railway (the OST layout)was how to scenically treat the upper and lower tracks. Thereis little horizontal separation between them, and they crossat a very oblique angle (Figure 1). On the actual layout, theoverpass ended up over top of that switchon the lower level, further <strong>com</strong>plicatingthe scenic treatment.Having lived along the Pennsy mainlinefor many years, stone walls abound in myarea, and there is the famous PRR stoneviaduct that carries the mainline into centralPhiladelphia. So, it was no stretch to imaginestone walls supporting the upper track.I set about looking for <strong>com</strong>merciallyavailable stone walls in O <strong>Scale</strong>. The realstones I measured in the opening photoabove were two feet high and ranged fromfour feet to six feet long. I needed about30’ of wall and they would have to be flexibleto curve with the trackwork. I foundnothing that met all those criteria, so I decided I would haveto make them myself.Wondering how I would do this, my eyes fell upon the1/4” thick sheets of styrofoam that I had purchased at HomeDepot to use as subroadbed. These sheets are two feet byfour feet, and <strong>com</strong>e in a fanfold of 50 sheets for about $30. Aquick test determined that I could easily scribe the sheets torepresent the mortar lines between the stones. I gave my testsheet to my wife, Jaini, and asked her (She’s the artist of thisduo!) to “make this look like stone”. She did, and now I’mhere to tell you how we did it.I marked off four feet of elevated trackbed, and measuredthe height from the base at every foot. I added two extrascale feet, so the wall would be above grade. I cut one 2’ x 4’sheet of styrofoam from the fanfold and squared off the bottomedge (Photo 1). I marked off every foot along the bottomand plotted the height corresponding to the elevated trackage(Photo 2). I then trimmed the panel to height, using a straightedgealong the height tick marks and a utility knife.Next, I measured off each 1/2” along the edges. This representsthe grout lines between courses of two-foot high stones(Photo 3). By the way, I used a depleted felt-tip pen to scribe thegrout lines. It gave me the best lines without tearing the styrofoam.Using a T-square, I marked off the vertical grout lines varyingthe width of the stones slightly so that all the vertical lines do notline up. This makes the walls look much more realistic (Photo 4).It takes about an hour to scribe one panel. I re<strong>com</strong>mendwearing latex or silicone gloves as you will get some ink fromthe pen on your hands and forearms.I choose to join the individual panels with pilasters, ratherthan try to notch the panel ends and fit them together. Mypilasters are trapezoidal in shape. Each one is six feet wide atthe base and four feet wide at the top, regardless of its height.Grout lines were scribed in the same way as the panels.At this point I turned the panels over to Jaini for painting.Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 43123
11hot glue to the splines that support theelevated track. You won’t be able to seethe bridge from the other side of the layout,so I only made the one side. It may not beprototypical, but it gets the job done and wethink it looks great (Photo 11).uSubscribe toO <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>Visa, MC, AMEX & Discover acceptedCall 610-363-7117 during Eastern time business hoursSumpterValleyDepot135 NW Greeley Avenue,Bend OR 97701● Specializing in O <strong>Scale</strong> 2-railmodel trains since 1985● We buy or consign brass modelcollections● Model reservations gladlyaccepted● Prompt, courteous serviceCheck our website for latestO <strong>Scale</strong> Listingswww.sumptervalley.<strong>com</strong>trainman@callatg.<strong>com</strong>Tel: 541/382-3413Fax:541/389-7237Hours:Mon. thru Fri 8:30 AM - 5PMand sometimes on SaturdaysMar/Apr ’07- O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 45
Product News & ReviewsSPECIAL REPORT: Scace Tries DCC Again? Say It Isn’t So!Sometimes, events conspire to teach you something evenwhen you’ve already made your mind up on the subject. Inmy case, it’s DCC, and you’ll have to pardon my re-telling thetawdry tale (short version, of course). Back about eight or tenyears ago, I installed DCC on my (three residences ago) railroad.I won’t expound on whose systems were involved, but I foundthe whole thing to be pretty non-friendly, unreliable, and a catalystfor seaworthy linguistic expression. It didn’t like me, and Ididn’t like it. Many of you have read my musings on the subject,boiled down to, “Try it. It might be the very thing for you, but itisn’t my bag.”Thefirst eventin thecurrentconspiracywasAtlas Odropping2-RailTMCC,andannouncingtheshift tofactoryinstalledDCC inthe GoldSerieslo<strong>com</strong>otives.Thatdidn’thelp memuch, as I had a pretty fair-sized roster of TMCC-equippedpower. Along with that, I moved to our present, and hopefullypermanent, residence in Pennsylvania, requiring me tobuild a new railroad to a new concept. Next, my boss and ouresteemed Publisher made the gaff (in print, no less!) using theterm “entry-level” in the same sentence with MRC’s ProdigyAdvance DCC system, thus earning a richly deserved roundfired back in our direction by Frank Verrico of MRC. Frank, andMRC, then did a very smart thing by challenging us with theirsystem for review. Not only that, they agreed to have “Scacethe DCC Hater” (I never said that!) install their system on hisrailroad-a-building for review. There’s confidence for you! Thelast event to stitch me up in a shroud was a phone call from myfriend and fellow Expatriate Yankee, John Peterson. He’s a confirmedDCC guy, and has been (in a most friendly sort of way)verbally slapping me silly on the subject for years. DCC hasalways worked well for John, and I’ve enjoyed using it wheneverI visited. It just didn’t work for my application. Well, Johnhas been backdating his B&M-in-the-North-Country operation,and offered me several of his now out-of-era Diesels, whichhappen to have NCE D408 decoders in them and Soundtraxx.So now I’m cornered like a rat in a trap. Everyone involved musthave been secretly meeting for lunch or something; it’s just tootidy a package. Within a day of each other, a box from MRC46 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07showed up, and John popped in with a trunk fullof DCC-equipped power needing employment. Iwent down to the basement with all this plunderand booty, swallowed my previous experiences, and gave it awhirl. Here’s what I saw.Some Initial ImpressionsThe MRC handheld was certainly different from those in previousexperience. The buttons were big enough for me to gleefullyjab at without hitting three others in the process, whichhad been a big gripe for me with my previous system. The contrastbetween background and labeling is much improved. Eventhe labels tell you what the fool button does, in plain language.There’s a big red “Oh, Nubbins” button right in the middle bythe knob, and the “enter” key is also a different color from therest of the array.Theknob, forspeedcontrol,is a nicesmoothrotaryencoderthat hasdetents init, so youcan feelwhat’sgoing onwhen youturn it,withouthaving tostare atthe foolthing. Thedisplay isalso the “big print” version, with good contrast. It stays on, too,not going to sleep if you don’t change the speed or push a buttonfor some period of time. The road number of the lo<strong>com</strong>otivestays up there all the time, which is nice. If you can handleyour TV clicker, you can handle this thing. By the way, I re<strong>com</strong>mendgetting some of those nifty pockets that screw on the fasciaof your benchwork, so folks aren’t dropping the handhelds.Micromark sells them, for one.The ManualMy last experience involved a dreadful tome written in nonintuitivegeek-speek. After months of effort, I still couldn’t getany level of <strong>com</strong>fort out of that manual, and I’ve spent a careerin engineering. MRC’s is 18 pages long. That’s only eighteenpages. It’s also written in clear language. I had this puppy correctlyhooked up and powered up in (I timed it) seven minutesand seventeen seconds. That includes the time I spent on theinstallation section of the manual. Anything else that was relevantto my level of (in)expertise was easily found and understood.MRC makes two DCC systems, the “Advance” system Istarted with, and another called Prodigy “Express”. When Franksent the rest of the handhelds I needed, he sent two from theProdigy “Express” system, so I could experiment with interminglingthe two. I discovered that (Doh!) the new handhelds weresomewhat different than my original Prodigy Advance one. No
ig deal, though, as the manuals for both are onMRC’s website, easily found and downloaded.Best of all, the answers to my <strong>com</strong>patibility questionswere all there. Amazing!OperationI was switching cars without even looking at the handheld,like a pro, in about an hour (not still fighting it after a monthor two). This system is much friendlier. I really like the “YardMode” too. In conventional mode, the encoder <strong>com</strong>es to zero,the lo<strong>com</strong>otive stops, and you poke a button to reverse direction.In Yard Mode, you ease the encoder to zero like before. Ifyou keep easing the knob past zero, the lo<strong>com</strong>otive starts in theopposite direction. Once you get used to it that’s not a bad deal,because you can switch cars one-handed and keep the otherone gainfully employed working couplers, manipulating a snifter,or whatever.ProgrammingI have an old GE boxcab that Fred Icken built. Many of youmay remember it as having been a guinea pig before, back whenI had Jerry Snow re-power it and I reviewed the results in thesepages. Well, it became the test rig de jour again. I hopped inthe car and made a quick trip for an NCE D408, a Soundtraxxboard, and a couple really basic questions (“So, what do I need,again, and what the h#@l does it do?”) cheerfully answeredby the folks at Mainline Hobby. Go see them when you passthrough Blue Ridge Summit, PA. We now return to our program.After some puzzling out for location, we dropped ‘em in andprogrammed them to suit. Again, nice clear instructions madethe task pretty easy. I programmed the sound decoder first, givingit the same address as the D408 before wiring the wholemess into the carbody. The programming mode in the MRC systemtakes you step-by-step through the whole process in a niceintuitive order. About the only reference you need for programmingis the list of CV’s (Control Variables) that <strong>com</strong>e with thedecoder. The programming process is nicely pre-canned in theMRC system, especially good for me, the fella who needs to readthe VCR manual just to get the clock set.If you remember, one of my desires for a control system wasthe ability to go to the blister-pack display, pick my <strong>com</strong>ponents,and put them in myself. You guys are right, DCC is the closest tothat utopia and the selection of options that are O-<strong>Scale</strong> appropriatehas grown quite a bit in eight-odd years. As it turns out,you can take quite a number of the prototype-specific clip-insound/drive decoders made for Atlas, Proto-2000, Bachmann,and other higher-end HO power and use them for sound-onlydecoders in O <strong>Scale</strong>. Just hook up the speaker leads, leave offthe motor leads, program with the same address as the drivedecoder, and hook up the pick-up leads. I tried this “piggybacking”trick with the boxcab, and it worked like a charm.Booster UseI divided the railroad up into three power blocks, and usedMRC Powerstation 8 boosters. These things are a black box witha variable voltage output and give each power district an eightampcapacity. Although MRC re<strong>com</strong>mends piggybacking twoProdigy Advance base units together for a seven-amp capacity,they were very helpful in exploring the use of the Powerstation8 (which is an older product) for my application. Should yougo this route, the one thing to watch is that, as each booster iswired in parallel with the next one, particular attention is paid tomatching polarity.Although I initially ran the Prodigy Advance, with no booster,Product News & Reviewsquite successfully driving our boxcab and a couple CarworksAlco switchers that John Peterson brought over, I found thebehavior enhanced by the use of the booster units. The Powerstationsare not only capacity enhancers but they are alsosignal amplifiers, and the improved clarity of signal over O<strong>Scale</strong> distances is visibly noticeable on my railroad. I found the<strong>com</strong>bination of these boosters with the packaged system createsa pretty robust environment for my O <strong>Scale</strong> use, so far, andwould re<strong>com</strong>mend checking it out as you design your system foryour application. Those motors can add up pretty quickly whenyou’re running three-unit Diesel power, especially with the twinmotor vertical drives currently “in vogue”, so don’t skimp on theamperage capacity of your system. Here again, this was nothingI couldn’t figure out with a model-railroad-layman’s knowledgeof DC circuits, a bit of healthy-gauge wire, and about an hour’stime.SoundBy now, many of you are wondering why I’ve chosen toinclude sound in my system, especially after some of my previouswritten rantings. If you go back to some of those pieces oflearned prose, you’ll see that I found sound to be somewhatoppressive. Even more importantly, sound doesn’t enter andleave the scenes I work so hard to create. It’s everywhere.My adding sound is really John’s fault, again. That trunk-full ofDiesels came sound-equipped, so I had to play with it. I learneda couple things that mitigated a lot of my concerns over theinclusion of sound. First, John used Dallee speakers in his installations.These ain’t exactly cheap, but the fidelity is good enoughsuch that you can turn the engine sound way down without itturning into a bunch of plain hissing. Unlike some of the proprietarysystems with only a couple sound level choices (the lowestof which is still too d@%n loud for me), DCC sound is a CVchoice. It ramps down to as quiet as you want. I found the resultmuch less oppressive, and a good deal closer to shutting up afterthe train leaves the scene. In the DCC world, the horn and bellvolumes are independent, as opposed to other sound systems.This is nice, because I can drive folks a little crazy requiringthem to ring the bell when going through my covered bridge,blow the horn appropriately, and such. Meanwhile, the primemover is quietly (quietly, mind you) drumming along. By the way,cranking the horn is great for getting folks to stop leaning on thetrackwork. You know who you are so I won’t embarrass youhere, but you sure jumped, didn’t you!Another plus that I hadn’t considered was the discovery thatsound slows folks way down switching cars. Batting freight carsback and forth in a typical model-railroader-frisky fashion justsounds awful. Since the switchers stay within visual scenes, Iturn the volume up a little more on them without <strong>com</strong>promisingthe visual effect, and slow the car bashers down.List of Components:You’ll note that more folks than MRC are mentioned here, whichis a bit unusual for a review. That’s a big advantage of the protocol.DCC isn’t proprietary; it’s an NMRA standard. MRC’s system is currentlydriving NCE decoders piggybacked with Soundtraxx sounddecoders in my case, and the experiences with intermingled gearare important to the review of the system itself for <strong>com</strong>patibility. Iobserved no <strong>com</strong>patibility issues, as one would expect from a productin <strong>com</strong>pliance with a <strong>com</strong>mon protocol. Anyway, here are the<strong>com</strong>ponents I used to build my system.Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 47
Product News & ReviewsModel Rectifier Corporation, 80 Newfield Ave, Edison NJ 08837732-225-2100 • www.modelrectifier.<strong>com</strong>Base System MRC Prodigy Advance MSRP $3302 Add’l Handhelds MRC Prodigy Express MSRP $903 Boosters MRC Powerstation 8 MSRP $180Fascia Sockets MRC #0001501 MSRP $34Sound Decoders MRC Sound Decoders on websiteSpecifications (Prodigy Advance Base System):2- and 4-digit Addressing, 14-28-128 Speed StepsPrograms “on Main” or using a separate program track.,Programs all NMRA CV’s, Fast Clock, 20 Acc’y FunctionsAdvanced or Universal Consisting (Use for multiple-unit lo<strong>com</strong>otives.)3.5 Amp Cap’y, Reads 99 Throttles (Plug-n-Play)Power Station 8 Booster:8-Amp Cap’y, Adjustable Max Voltage OutputNorth Coast Engineering, 899 Ridge Road, Webster NY 14580585-671-0370 • www.ncedcc.<strong>com</strong>North Coast D408 series MSRP $80Specifications (NCE D408 Series Decoder):4-Amp Continuous Rating, 12-Amp Peak Rating, 8-Function(Headlights and the like). D408-E is a Back EMF Decoder(Constant Speed over Variable Grades and Loads)Soundtraxx, 210 Rock Point Drive, Durango CO 81301970-259-0690 • www.soundtraxx.<strong>com</strong>Sound decoders Soundtraxx DSX series MSRP $85Dallee Electronics, 246 West Main Street, Leola PA 17540717-661-7041 • www.dallee.<strong>com</strong>Speakers MSRP $1348 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07What About Older Power?I bring this up because of one of the issues I encounteredthe first time around with DCC. This is something that also hasbearing for many of you folks, so I’ll revisit it here. When I wastroubleshooting the first system with an old HP oscilloscope,I discovered that my US Hobbies-vintage steam, scratchbuiltstuff, and lit passenger cars created some very high-amplitudeshort-duration amperage spikes that spelled eventual doom forthe then-current crop of decoders. The problem was in thepickup paths. Every little arc over oiled journals, truck bolsters,and iron wheels would cause one of these spikes.I’m still not convinced (yet) that the newer crop of decodershas addressed this robustness issue, or if they ever can.There is salvation for me, however, in two approaches. Sincemy mainline is wired and blocked for conventional cabcontrol, I simply wired them to be switchable between theoriginal Controlmaster 20 conventional throttles and DCC.Each set of track leads is dropped to the center taps of apretty beefy double-pole rotary switch. Then, the track leadsfrom the Power Station 8 booster are wired into the first pairof contacts (label that position “DCC”). The track leads fromthe conventional throttles are wired into the second set ofcontacts (label that position “CAB”). Pay very close attentionto matching polarity as you wire each rotary. I used rotaryswitches because I still have to test products equipped withsome of the proprietary control systems, each wired intosubsequent pairs of contacts. For your purposes, though,a healthy double-pole double-throw toggle switch will getyou there if you’re sticking with the two options. After finishingthis little exercise, I could run one of mymyriad old sleds (and I have a lot of ‘em!) withimpunity on conventional cab-control on onemainline track, a pair of DCC-equipped P&D F2s on the other,and switch the industrial areas with our boxcab. Manipulatea few switches, and any <strong>com</strong>bination is possible. If you pullthis stunt, though, make sure that the gaps between sectionsof railroad are mechanically re-enforced with insulated joiners,epoxy fill, or styrene to avoid that expensive acrid odor resultingfrom crossed systems.The second approach, of course, is to do the work on thosepieces of rolling stock and motive power to minimize the numberof mechanical connections (especially oily ones) in theelectrical path, such as adding phosphor-bronze pickups toend-run the through-the-journals/ through-the kingpins path ofconventional practice. Anything earmarked for DCC operationwill eventually cross the workbench for this treatment at thesame time the decoders go in.Some Conclusions, and the Future:It is nice to see that MRC has done quite a bit of work in adirection that benefits folks like me. Rather than give the geeksamong us new nifty features, MRC is making what is probablythe current top-end norm in capabilities much more friendlyfor the rest of us to use and enjoy.By the way, I’m not saying that this is the only system outthere. Check them all out as you design your system for yourtastes. I will say that Frank and MRC were the first to have the,uh… confidence (…yeah, “confidence” is the word I’m lookingfor here) to take on Scace the Ludite with their product line,and the price point is worth paying attention to. As anotherthing I consider, I’ll also mention that MRC has always supportedmy gear over the years. I’ve had to send in a coupleControlmasters that I roached (not a warranty issue, but myown stupidity), for example, and they cheerfully fixed me upwith a very quick turn-around time. They’ve been aroundfor many years, and their support of their product line, in myexperiences, has always been excellent.With the Prodigy system, I have to appreciate the effort incatching “user-friendly” up to the technology. They got megood, and so did Peterson.Send $2 forPrice Info andCatalogR•BISHOPP.O. Box 4153 • Burlington, VT 05406 • (802) 651-4005CUSTOM DESIGNED • HANDCRAFTED • SIGNED • COPYRIGHTEDU.S. US Army 155mm M10 Tank “Long Destroyer Tom” 42' && Flat Flat Car Car • All • All 1/48 1/48 scalewww.modelcrafters.<strong>com</strong>Since 1985modelcraftersU.S. Army 155 mm M1 “Long Tom” towed field gun with tarp covered muzzle andbreech. All mounted on a 42' flat car with chocks, blocks and tie-downs.Flat car has real wood plank deck & die-cast sprung trucks with Kadee couplers.Load and flat car are battle weathered and each piece has unique numbering. Mod.No. AR1(OS)-OSFC3.2USA O-<strong>Scale</strong>-2 Rail Mail Order: $350.+S & Ins.<strong>com</strong>memorating the united states military railway servicee-mail: modelcrafters@yahoo.<strong>com</strong>
PULLMAN 12-1 SLEEPERS IN ABSGolden Gate Depot is producing These 12-1 Sleepers in ABS Plastic, in all the roads listed below for yourenjoyment. These Sleepers have the best interior detail of any car in this class. The underbody detail isonly matched by brass models. The trucks are tried and true, with machined metal wheels that are nickelplated. Full Interiors with many figures per car. Overhead Constant Voltage Lighting.Available in March 2007 for $129.95 ($99.95 RESERVE PRICE) per Car.PULLMAN HW HEAD END SET IN ABS70’ BAGGAGE, 70’ POSTAL BAGGAGE, 70’ COMBINEB&O - B&M - C&O - CB&Q - CPR - GN - N&W - NH - NP - NYC (TTG) - NYC (GREEN) -SLEEPERROADSPULLMAN - SF - SP (G,TTG,D) - PRR - UP (TTG,Y) - UNLETTERED GREENAvailable in April 2007 for $379.95 (RESERVE PRICE) per 3 Car SetCoaling TowerFully Assembled with Light Kit InstalledMovable Chutes (Manual)Small Footprint: 7” X 9” X 22” TallSpectacular <strong>Scale</strong> Detail with BrassChain and Pulley DetailsHEAD ENDROADSAluminum SetsFull Length 6 Car Sets.AVAILABLE FOR RESERVATIONBlack(Shown), Redwood and BrownComing May 2007 for $199.95($169.95 RESERVE PRICE)NYC Empire State Express:- <strong>Scale</strong> Trucks- <strong>Scale</strong> Underbody- <strong>Scale</strong> Interior Details- 48” Radius Track or Larger- Kadee Ready Mounts (Close Cpl.)Coming Fall 2007 $549.95 ReserveSEATEDGolden Gate Depot“Little People” Seated and Standing Figures for O <strong>Scale</strong>Highly Detailed, Variety of Painted Men and WomenPackage of 40 Seated Figures for only $29.95Package of 15 Standing Figures for only $19.95www.goldengatedepot.<strong>com</strong> / FAX: (408) 904-5849STANDINGMar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 49
Product News & ReviewsEast GaryCar Co.Dept OST3828 St. Joseph CtLake Station IN 46405They’re Back!Former Indianapolis Car Company sidesare now available from new tooling.Parts #100 & #200$3.00 eachOrders under $50 please add $4.50 for postage andhandling. SASE for updated list.News: Bucyrus Steam Shovel, MSRP $300Toy Trucker & Contractor, 7496 106 Ave SE, LaMoure ND 58458800-533-8293 • www.toytrucker.<strong>com</strong>In the summer of 2007, Toy Trucker and Contractor will release a Bucyrus steamshovel model, a 1:48 scale replica of a steam shovel used during the construction of thePanama Canal. Manufactured by TWH Collectibles, in cooperation with Bucyrus International,this die-cast model is accurate to the smallest of details, replicating the design andfunctions of this giant machine of the early twentieth century. This is a model of a Bucyrus95-ton steam shovel, the largest of 12 models Bucyrus offered between 1895 and 1901.Of the 102 shovels used on the canal project, Bucyrus had the rights to 77 of them.The TWH model is 16" long from boom tip to rear coupler, over eight inches tall at theboom tip and over five inches wide across the extended outriggers. The die-cast modelweighs in at just over three pounds. The model is loaded with operational details: removableand functional rear coupler, working trucks and suspension, working outriggers,working winches that use chain and rope to operate the function of the shovel, <strong>com</strong>pletedetailed interior, removable exterior housing, and much more. Even the undercarriage is<strong>com</strong>pletely modeled to scale.Delivery is expected in June of 2007. The production run will be limited to 5000pieces. Pre-orders are being accepted now.Buy⁄Sell⁄TradeWSM PRR Q2, 4-4-6-4, N/P, OB, Excellent...............................................$1,850.00WSM PRR J1a, 2-10-4, C/P, OB.................................................................$1,650.00USH NKP 2-8-4, C/P, OB.............................................................................$1,250.00Weaver Brass WP GS64 4-8-4, F/P, LN, OB.................................................$795.00USH C&O 2-8-4, C/P, Runs good, OB........................................................$1,275.00MG NYC J1e, 4-6-4, Nice, N/P, NOB..........................................................$1,175.00PSC #16145 PRR B6sb 0-6-0, C/P, OB.......................................................$1,250.00USH PRR M1a, 4-8-2, C/P, OB...................................................................$1,275.00PSC #17107-1 Crown Heisler, New OB (#4 of 11)......................................$1,795.00MG B&O 2-8-8-4, C/P, NOB.......................................................................$1,995.00MG PRR N1 2-10-2, N/P, OB, Mint............................................................$1,550.00MG PRR E6 4-4-2, N/P, NOB, Can Motor.................................................$1,075.00MG PRR J1 2-10-4, C/P, Icken gearsm NOB.............................................$1,895.00USH NYC H10, 2-8-2, Mint, N/P, OB.........................................................$1,375.00USH PRR K4 4-6-2, C/P, NOB.......................................................................$750.00USH PRR L1, 2-8-2, C/P, OB......................................................................$1,150.00USH NYC L4b, 4-8-2, Mint, OB.................................................................$1,250.00OM BNSF C44-9W, F/P LN OB..................................................................$1,875.00OM BNSF SD70MAC, F/P, OB...................................................................$1,875.00OM N&W C630 High Hood, FM trucks, New, OB...................................$1,195.00GEM Rdg 0-6-0 Camelback, Ptd, not ltd, OB..............................................$700.00IHM 42T Climax TCW Tks, F/P NOB, test run...........................................$800.00Layaway Available50 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07Jim HackworthMODEL TRAINS(and Subsidiary JH Consulting)2631 Edgevale Road, Columbus OH 43221-1113Phone: 614-4514517 Fax: 6144514557Email: jhmtrains@msn.<strong>com</strong> • Web: www.jhmtrains.<strong>com</strong>LSASE for Complete ListShipping 6% - $6.00 Min., $12.00 MaxOhio Residents Add 6.75% Sales TaxConsignmentsOM UP SD24b, N/P, LN, OB..........................................................................$875.00OM PRR PAPBPA Set, Late Run, F/P, New..............................................$3,990.00MG PRR N5 Caboose, N/P, OB......................................................................$250.00GEM PRR A5 0-4-0, runs good, C/P, OB......................................................$625.00SS N&W J 4-8-4 Rebuilt w/Sound, C/P, OB..............................................$1,500.00Yoder GE 44T, F/P, Not Ltd, New OB...........................................................$299.00OM #0133 Gilpin Shay, F/P, New, OB........................................................$1,200.00OM ATSF Erie Built “B” Unit, F/P, New......................................................$899.00USH PRR I1, 2-10-0, C/P, Wtd, OB............................................................$1,150.00OM #0422 UP SD60, N/P, OB.........................................................................$975.00OM #0771 PS2-CD Covered Hopper, N/P, New, OB....................................$295.00PRB 40' Airslide F/P BN, New, OB................................................................$295.00PRB 50' Airslide F/P BN, New, OB................................................................$295.00PSC #16145 PRR B6sb, C/P, OB.................................................................$1,250.00PSC PRR N6b, OS Cupola, N/P, OB..............................................................$295.00PRB Sealand Gunderson D. Stack, set, LN, OB........................................$1,395.00PRB Thrall TTX D. Stack, set, F/P, LN. OB..............................................$1,395.00PRB BN Gunderson D. Stack, set, LN, OB................................................$1,395.00PRB #4712D CRR Caboose (ATSF Style), LN, OB......................................$295.00MG PRR N8 Caboose, N/P, NOB...................................................................$250.00Alco PRR N6a, C/P or N/P, each....................................................................$225.00SEND LSASE FOR LARGE LIST OF MG/USH KTM ITEMSEstates⁄LiquidationsCollection Reductions
REVIEW: Scenic Express Model LandscapingSupplies: see text for pricing175 Sheffield Dr #100, Delmont PA 15626800-234-9995 ● www.scenicexpress.<strong>com</strong>reviewed by Joe and Jaini GiannovarioWe decided to hold an Open House for the OST layoutover the Christmas holidays. As a result we wanted to scenic aportion of the layout that is seen as you <strong>com</strong>e down the basementstairs. It is a stand-alone scene, and we felt our visitorswould get a better feel for the overall future look of the layoutif this area was sceniced.As Scenic Express is an OST advertiser, we visited theirwebsite to see what they offered. What follows is our <strong>com</strong>binedimpressions of some of the materials we purchased.Realistic Tree Kit #WD1103, Green Deciduous, 5 - 7” tall, 7 perpkg, $15.98If you havenever seenthese tree kits,you are in fora surprise. Thekit consists ofplastic moldedtree trunks withbranches andfoliage. The“tree”, out ofthe package,has the trunk and branches all in one plane; it’s “flat”. Youbend the branches around the trunk to give the tree a threedimensionallook. The branches remain in place after beingbent. Once satisfied with the branch location and generalshape of the tree, you spray the branches with an adhesiveand dip the tree into the foliage provided. This kit <strong>com</strong>es withthree foliage colors. A note here about the foliage is in order.The foliage is in big clumps that must be broken into finerpieces for a more natural looking tree. Jaini says the process istedious but essential for a nice looking tree.The instructions suggest using Hobb-E-Tac adhesive,but we chose to use WEB spray (also available from ScenicExpress, #BO1526, $10.99). Rather than a mist, this adhesivesprays out in a webbed pattern, which gives the foliage moresurface on which to stick. The result is very nice but the adhesivehas a strong odor and should only be used outdoors.Without too much effort we were able to make passabledeciduous trees. With a greater degree of attention paid tobranch location and a bit more attention to the foliage, thesewould be perfect foreground trees.Realistic Tree Kit #WD1106, Pines, 6 - 8”tall, 16 per pkg., one foliage color, $15.98The pine tree kits are made of thesame plastic as the deciduous trees.However, the results were not as nice.The manufacturer suggests twisting thetrunk so that the branches form a spiral.After dipping in the foliage, the effectwas more like a bottle brush than a pinetree. I have an idea how to fix that, whichI will detail at another time after someexperimentation.Based on our disappointment withProduct News & Reviewsthe pine tree kit, we purchased several ready-made trees.10 Piece Tall Pine Set #NH26322, 7 - 8” tall, $16.98/setThese were very nice flocked pine and fir trees on metalarmatures, which are great for filling in behind rocks andstructures. Jaini feels they are too uniform, but I like them as-is.20 Piece Pine & Fir Set #EX0201, 6 - 8” tall, $29.98/setMore pines, but taller. Jaini likes these best. I think theyneed some trimming, but, hey, I’m not the artistic one of the pair.These are fuller trees with more varied foliage and quite nice.Nordic Fir, 9-3/4” tall, #NH21900, $12.99 eachWe bought three of these beautiful trees for prominentdisplay in the scene. These trees are made inGermany by Noch, and they’re worth everypenny of their price.Prairie Tufts #MN72733, XL Late Summer and#MN72734 XL Autumn, $24.99 eachIf you want your scenery to look real,you have to try Prairie Tufts. These are finefibers simulating grass clumps attached to an invisible base.You peel them off and glue them down. The look is fantastic,and realistic. One set consists of a 12” x 8” sheet with over ahundred tufts. It would be difficult to make these yourself forthis price.One more <strong>com</strong>ment is in order. When we called the firsttime, we did not identify ourselves with this magazine so weexperienced Scenic Express’s service as any other customerwould. We had called late in the afternoon a week beforeChristmas. Sandy, who answered the phone, was very helpfuland said she’d try to get the order out that day. Our first box ofscenic materials arrived by UPS the next morning (we’re in thesame state). The next time we called we spoke to Jim Elster,the owner, and he was just as helpful.Included with our order was a Scenic Express catalog.We had no idea there were so many products available forscenery. Scenic Express has lots of them in stock and can shipyour order right away.If you are looking to scenic your layout, give ScenicExpress a try and remember to tell them you heard about themfrom O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> magazine.Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 51
Nos. 16001-18500 O SCALE/PROTO 48 • Kit #124/124-P … $49.95•Based on 1917 prototype builtby Mt. Vernon Car Co.•Double sheath with Dreadnought ends•Steel underframe•Andrews trucks•Kit includes couplers and decalsAlso available –SACRAMENTO NORTHERNBoxcar Nos. 2301-2350Kit #125/125-P … $49.95 Coming soon – SP Sugar Beet GondolaSubscribe toO <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>Subscription Rates: 6 issuesUS - Standard Mail Delivery US$35 • US - First Class Delivery (1 year only) US$45Canada/Mexico US$55 • Overseas US$80Visa, MC, AMEX & Discover acceptedCall 610-363-7117 during Eastern time business hoursBack issues still available. Visit our website [www.oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>] or call to inquire.O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> mth Feb 2007.qxp 1/4/2007 4:52 PM Page 1All-New USRA 0-6-0Coming In '07!See The LatestM.T.H. OfferingsIn Our 2007Catalogs© 2007 M.T.H. Electric <strong>Trains</strong>www.mthtrains.<strong>com</strong>7020 Columbia Gateway Drive,Columbia, MD 21046The2007 M.T.H.catalogs are nowout and full of excitingofferings sure to please modelrailroad fans of all types. See your localM.T.H. Authorized Retailer for a copy or send$5.00 to receive a copy directly from us and get addedto our catalog subscription list. Once subscribed, you'llreceive free catalogs every time we release a new one!52 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
REVIEW: Searchlight SignalsSL-25 2/3 Rail MSRP $ 64.95SL-35 2/3 Rail MSRP $ 69.95SL-45 2/3 Rail MSRP $ 69.95SL-55 2/3 Rail MSRP $ 74.95Custom Signals, LLC, 27 Gellatly Drive, Wappingers Falls, NY12590 ● www.customsignals.<strong>com</strong>reviewed By Gene ClementsProduct News & ReviewsThe PrototypeTrain movement through blocks governed by signals hasbeen around since 1872 with the introduction of ABS (AutomaticBlock System), and with CTC (Centralized Traffic Control)in 1927. Searchlight signals were introduced in 1920 asan improvement over the then <strong>com</strong>mon semaphore types.The design was improved upon in 1930, to give an even morefocused beam of light that could be seen at a greater distance.The searchlight signal uses a single lamp with a system ofmoveable lenses to project multiple colors, usually red, yellow,and green. Other color variations can be found. The searchlightsignal found widespread use by American and Canadianrailroad <strong>com</strong>panies and is still in use at many locations today.Most of the signals I operate by on every trip on the BNSF BirminghamSub are of the searchlight type.The ModelsThe signal models being reviewed are the SL-25, SL-35, andSL-45, all double headed signals, and the SL-55, a triple-headsignal. Both the SL-35 and SL-55 stand approximately 24 scalefeet tall above the foundation, while the SL-25 and SL-45 standapproximately 19 scale feet above the foundation. The designand detail work of each signal is exceptional and to 1/48 scaledimensions. Details include proportioned ladder, service platforms,and safety railings for each signal head.Also included are nut and bolt castings on themasts where each appliance mounts to themast, as well as base details. Details on eachsignal head include the maintainer’s lock onthe back of the case, and the maintainer sighton the top of each signal head, <strong>com</strong>plete withthe hole in the target that is used to aim thesignal. Also included with each signal are aremovable number plate and decals to identifythe signal as a “permissive signal”. Removethe number plate to designate an “absolutesignal”. The simulated round concrete basehas multiple holes for ease of mounting to thelayout.Each signal head light is a <strong>com</strong>puter-fabricatedboard with 3 LEDs (red, yellow andgreen), designed to be as close to the prototypicalcolor as possible and bright enough togive a searchlight effect. Each signal includesa Signal Control Board from the Atlas-O 21stCentury Signal System. Connection to thecontrol board is made with a modular plugattached to a 21” long wiring lead from thesignal base. A 7/16” to 1/2” diameter holethrough the layout scenery will be required inorder to insert the modular plug through andbelow the layout; this hole is easily coveredby the width of the signal base.Also included with each signal is an “Installationand Instruction Manual”. I was impressed that prototypeterminology shown in the glossary corresponded to G.C.O.R.(General Code of Operating Rules) definitions and rules thatI work under. Equally impressive were the various signal scenariosyou typically find in ABS and CTC systems. Illustrationsand text show and explain the <strong>com</strong>ponents to use and how towire each scenario for prototype operation.Last, but not least, a power supply of 6-22V (AC or DC) canbe used to power the system. All signals and control boardsare <strong>com</strong>patible with the Atlas-O 21st Century Signal Systemproducts currently available. Custom Signal’s products canbe used with either three- or two-rail layouts. For two-railapplications, the modeler will need a source of “block detection”.A relay, photocell, or infared system can be used for thispurpose, or use the Atlas Current Sensing Detector, #7935. Allhardwire connections are made via screw-down terminals oneach signal board.In SummaryTerry Christopher and the people at Custom Signals havegiven the O <strong>Scale</strong> marketplace a very detailed model of variousprototype signals, with an expandable plug-and-playcontrol system. By using the signals of choice, <strong>com</strong>bined withthe control board system, the O <strong>Scale</strong> model railroader hasthe option of creating as simple, or as <strong>com</strong>plex, a prototypicaloperating ABS or CTC signal system as desired. Check outCustom Signals for yourself; you will find their advertisement,website address, and mailing address in this issue of O <strong>Scale</strong><strong>Trains</strong>. To Terry Christopher and the people at Custom Signals,as we say in the South,” Way to go, folks”.Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 53
Product News & ReviewsReview: Scenic Details, Awnings MSRP $9.50, Sidewalks MSRP $8.75Frenchman River Model Works, HC1 Box 185A, Stratton, NE69043 ● www.frenchmanriver.<strong>com</strong>reviewed by Brian ScaceFrenchman River Model Works has been making a line ofHO scenic items for a while, now, and is now entering the O<strong>Scale</strong> market with several interesting items.First off is a kit for window awnings, consisting of foursheets of striped-pattern awning material and the wire supportsneeded for mounting these awnings to your structureof choice. These are helpful for folks modeling the steam era,especially, as window awnings were more than decorationback in the pre-air conditioning era.While perusing their website, I also saw some sidewalkcastings that have some promise, too. Although marketedas an HO item, the #004 “Big City Sidewalk” scales outnicely (about four feet wide) for our use. The curb height isabout four scale inches, and the castings are nice and crisp.Included are a couple corners with storm drains, a sectionwith a vehicle ramp over the curbing, and a section with anHO-sized manhole cover cast in. Quick work with a drill andan O <strong>Scale</strong> manhole cover will take care of the li’l HO one,making all the pieces useful. I’d love to see them offer a baglot with a whole bunch of just the corner/storm drain pieces,which are certainly the hardest of the bunch to scratchbuildconvincingly. They’re certainly worth a good look.Frenchman is <strong>com</strong>ing to market with a kit for a woodenrowboat (with an outboard motor), in keeping with theshoreside themes evident in their HO line. If you are lookingfor some nifty scenic detail castings and detailing kits, visitthem on their website to see what they’re up to.Review: Chicago Burlington & Quincy 28’ CabooseO <strong>Scale</strong> Kit # 403009 MSRP: $120.00Mullet River Model Works, 118 Huson Ct., Plymouth, WI53073 920-892-8159 ● www.mulletrivermodelworks.<strong>com</strong>reviewed by Martin BrechbielMullet River Model Works has been advertising theircabooses for quite a while in these pages. As it turns out,they actually offer 11 caboose kits, a flat car, and a gondola,as well as some structures (see OST, Jan/Feb ’07 page 54 fora review of their Wisconsin Central/ Soo Line Depot). Theseare all laser-cut kits of plywood construction with workingside windows and cupola windows, an etched brass underframe,and brass ladders. Having been more than mildlyintrigued, I was unable to resist an opportunity to check oneover first hand. These were older cars on the CB&Q that hadbeen remodeled with a steel underframe and using the samecupola as the 30’ cars. Window spacing varied on the 28’cars, since there were many classes of them. This model representsthe NE1 and NE4 cars.I’ll confess that I had not handled a modern-era craftsmankit (or any kit for that matter) for many years, so a smallamount of trepidation began to counterbalance my excitementpending actually opening the box and seeing whatbargain I had entered into with our Mephistophelian Editor.There were several very tidy plastic bags very neatly organizedwith laser-cut <strong>com</strong>ponents cut from thin plywood.Included in the one bag was also laser-cut window glazingand decals. In yet another separate bag was a sheet of etchedbrass underbody framing parts, steps to be assembled, ladders,and even tissue paper for the roofing. There were fivepages of instructions and another five pages of exploded<strong>com</strong>ponent construction views, interior <strong>com</strong>ponent views,and views of the etched brass <strong>com</strong>ponents and their ultimaterespective locations.Assembly began with the lamination of the sides and ends.There are three layers of laser-cut plywood, and carpenters’or white glue is re<strong>com</strong>mended along with weighting theseassemblies to keep them both flat and aligned. Everythingseparated nicely using a scalpel blade (whatever you prefer,invest in a new blade for this!) and, despite not liking usingwater based glues due to warping issues, I acquired a bottleof stainable carpenters’ glue. Everything went togethersmoothly and, between a bag of clothespins and leadweights, nice and flat as well. One critical issue to laser-cutkits with slot-and-tab construction – you really, really haveto keep all of the slots clear of glue. After I got the sides andends together, I made my first mistake. The next heading onPage 1 was “Assemble cupola <strong>com</strong>ponents”, followed by alot of instructions on assembling the interior. Page 3 is wherethe cupola instruction really are (I knew that, did it anyway…really!).No real harm done but something to correct,and I was able to “adjust” the cupola sashes to be acceptableto me. Assembling the interior could be improved a bit withan exploded-view drawing of identified parts. Otherwise, it’sa puzzle that’s solvable on the basis of a limited number ofparts that simply have to go together a certain way. Gluingtogether the obvious and dry fitting the rest until you have a<strong>com</strong>pleted sub-assembly, then gluing that into place, works.There was one slot in the right interior wall that is incorrectlypositioned that required removing one tab to install the interiorfor that side. Fortunately, it’s not noticeable. The bracingparts under the bunks all have tabs, but there are no slots for54 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
Product News & Reviewsthem in the walls. I never did find the interiorladder rungs to the cupola. I don’t think that theyare needed anyway, and I’m going to put somelead weighting under the bunks as well.I’ll confess that there is something very satisfying about takingan entire interior sub-assembly and having multiple tabsaudibly snap into place. I may grow to like laser cut kits!Assembling the sides and ends together went smoothlyafter I went back and removed every scrap of excess glue atthe overlapping edges. The tolerances on the corner lap jointsfitting the sides and ends together was really nice and tight,and contributes to strong construction. The only real issue Ihad here was the section that goes under the door sill. This isa very, very delicate part of the ends that is attached by twovery small slivers of wood. After I broke one off three times, Ijust took both off and glued them into place later after the floorwas installed.Now I was supposed to assemble the cupola, anotherthree-layer lamination exercise that went very smoothly. Thelap fitting assembly really makes it next to foolproof to get thissquare, and the assembled cupola dropped right into its restingplace between the two sides of the assembled body; anotherprecision fit!Painting the sashes and door pieces was next. The glazingfor the door is the full size of the door, and gets sandwichedbetween two layers to make the panels in the lower sectionsand “glass” for the upper part. I could not locate any informationin the kit pertaining to color schemes and not being aCB&Q expert, I won’t even take a guessThe roof is designed to be removable, and there are 14 roofribs on one end and three on the other side of the cupola.They all have to fit into their respective slots on the wall sidesfor this to work, along with the cupola. I pre-curled both roofsections, sanded them slightly to align the slots in the roofwith those in the walls, and installed the ribs (two at time asre<strong>com</strong>mended), finding it increasingly difficult to snap theroof into place. By the time I got all of the ribs installed theroof snapped nicely into place. Ultimately, both roof sectionsjoined up nicely with the cupola as a single removable unit.The glazed sashes were installed along with the doors anddoor trim. The adjustable side sashes actually drop down intoa gap in the wall left by virtue of the lamination construction.Assembling the etched brass underbody was more troublesome.A few alignment or soldering tabs for the center sill boxwould have been useful. The bolster crossmembers also do notseem to be wide enough to either form the bolster and to alsoset down onto the underbody floor. After some consideration,were these parts not foldedon the fold lines as instructed,they may actually be correctlydimensioned. Everything elseseemed to fit as designed correctlyinto the wood bracing.The final finishing touchesare really left to the modeler;grab irons, creating the endrailings (supplying a templatefor that would be nice!), locationfor a smoke jack, brake<strong>com</strong>ponent(s) and their locations,etc. Overall, a fun kit tobuild with a bit of a challengeto it. Though perhaps not akit for a beginning kit builder,it’s definitely one for a moreexperience builder, particularlyso if you have any interest inthe road names that are offered or if you’d just like a reallyneat wooden caboose for your own private line. The neatnessand precision cutting of the <strong>com</strong>ponents was quite a novelty,as <strong>com</strong>pared to having to cut every stick, and the neatnessof fit was quite gratifying. So there were a few glitches, and acouple of errors by both kit and builder; nothing that would beconsidered <strong>com</strong>promising.Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 55
Book Review: Howard Zane: My Life With Model <strong>Trains</strong>, ISBN 0-9779834-0-4. MSRP: $69.95 plus $12.00 s&hHoward Zane, 5236 Thunder Hill Rd, Columbia MD 21045410-730-1036 • [www.zanestrains.<strong>com</strong>]reviewed by Joe GiannovarioI’ve never metHoward Zane, butafter reading hisbook I wish I had.He’s that personable,even in print.Not everyoneyou’ll meet inmodel railroadinghas a personalitybig enough towarrant their ownbook. Howard isone of the few.Yes, it’s an autobiographyof sorts.Yes, it’s about an HO <strong>Scale</strong> model railroad, but it’s still worthreading even if you are in O <strong>Scale</strong>.Over the course of 32 (short) chapters, Howard details hisjourney through the world of model railroading, from riding inan Erie K-1 4-6-2 with “Uncle” Ike, to his father’s early layoutswith a Lionel 700E and a Lobaugh Challenger, to his discoveryand adulation of John Allen’s Gorre & Daphetid. Howard hasdone it all; built a 2850 sq. ft. HO <strong>Scale</strong> empire, owned andoperated a hobby shop, and established one of the most successfulscale model trains shows in the country. Actually, he’sdone quite a lot more, but you should read the book to findout what those are for yourself.Were this just an autobiographical trip through Howard’srailroad activities, I would be hard pressed to make the casefor spending over $80 for this book. What makes this worththe money is the stunningly beautiful photography of Howard’slayout by Geren Mortensen, Jr. Mortensen’s photos could havebeen a book project by themselves. He shows Howard’s workto its best advantage and the photos will inspire any modelrailroader, regardless of scale. You’ll spend hours just lookingat the pictures.Now, add to all of this tips and tricks from Howard’s experiencebuilding his model railroad and you have somethingof value, a book that will be<strong>com</strong>e a reference in your libraryrather than collect dust on your coffee table.Okay, so if Howard hadn’t sent me a copy to review I doubtI would have purchased it myself. After all, it’s largely aboutan HO <strong>Scale</strong> modeler and I’m an O <strong>Scale</strong> modeler. But, Iwould have done myself a disservice in passing up this book.I learned a lot about Howard Zane, the man and model railroadentrepreneur. I also learned a lot about what goes intobuilding and operating a successful model railroad. No matterwhat scale you model in, you’ll get your money’s worth fromHoward’s book.2007 O <strong>Scale</strong> National ConventionSponsoredby The56 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07Indy O Meet & O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong>September 20, 21 & 22, 2007Rooms from $65.00 to $89.00 l Special Rates & Reservations by 8/10/07at the Marriot Indianapolis East l 7202 21st Street l Indianapolis, IN 46219http://marriott.<strong>com</strong>/property/propertypage/inddtP 400 TablesP Two Trading HallsP Clinics all day ThursdayP Layout ToursP Door prizes every hourP Free Parking<strong>Magazine</strong>Registration $35.00Advance registration by 8/15/07 includes a customlaser engraved name tagTables $40.00after 8/15/07 $50.00Please make checks to:James Canter1203 Rotherham LaneBeech Grove, IN 46107-3323317 l 322 l 3716 l jcanternkp@sbcglobal.net
Advertise in O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong>! Reach 2-Rail and3-Rail scale modelers who want what you haveto sell. Contact Jeb Kriigel<strong>jeb@oscalemag</strong>.<strong>com</strong>Errata: We failed toidentify Art Selby asthe photographer forthe article on GeorgeEschbach's layout inOST #30.Hill’sHobby & Collectors’ Shop• DCC Installations• Custom Designed Items• Custom Paint Jobs• Warrantied Repairs• Appraisals• Custom Designed & BuiltLayouts for home or office• 24 Hour online shoppingChicagoland’s FinestFULL SERVICEHobby Shop<strong>Trains</strong>R/CRocketsKitesKitsand more!Open 7 Daysa Week10 PRAIRIE AVE • PARK RIDGE, IL 60063 • (847) 823-4464 • WWW.HILLSHOBBY.COMMar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 57
Coupler Height Gage.With so many cars available to the O <strong>Scale</strong>r these days and3-Rail conversions being a part of life, I thought you might beinterested in a neat little tool that I use for checking Kadee couplerheights and the gap that is needed to fit them.In Photo 1 you will see there is the standard pieceof O <strong>Scale</strong> track with the gage sitting on it. In Photo 2,you see the gage in use.My good friend Bruce made the height gauge fromaluminum. One end has the coupler and the otherend is machined as a guide for cutting out the spaceneeded for a Kadee.I have included a drawing if you want to make oneyourself.A piece of clear pine 21” x 8” was cut, the trackscrewed down, and that’s it. If you don’t want tomake your own gage, Kadee sells one that is die-cast. We madeours because O <strong>Scale</strong> Kadees and gages are not available in WestAustralia.Till next time, Neville.u1 258 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
www.modelbuildingservices.<strong>com</strong>Assembled buildingsfrom any manufacturer’s kit.Kitbashed, painted and detailed...“Just Like Real!”Kit by Banta ModelworksModel Building ServicesModels built by Stu Gralnik264 Marret Rd • Lexington MA 02421Ph: 781-860-0554stu@modelbuildingservices.<strong>com</strong>DM&M Railroad CompanyHand-built O <strong>Scale</strong> telegraph poles andaccessories or custom-built to order. Seethe review in O <strong>Scale</strong><strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>,issue #26.Contact us for ordersor a custom quote:DM&M RR Co.5931 Endicott RdColumbus OH 43229www.dmmrailroad.<strong>com</strong>614-554-2959Mullet Riverodel Works118 Huson Ct. • Plymouth, WI 53073Phone 920-892-8159WWW.mulletrivermodelworks.<strong>com</strong>Deichman’s DepotATLAS O <strong>Scale</strong> 2-Rail0356-1 NS GP-15 $215.009902-2 BN Gunderson A&B $125.009903-1 BN Gunderson C, D & E $155.009906-2 Sea Land Gunderson A & B $125.009907-2 Sea Land Gunderson C, D & E $155.007502 BN 53' Evans Boxcar $55.207509 Wisc. Central 53' Evans Boxcar $55.207519 Bend Mill Works 53' Evans Box $55.207520 Ft. Wancouver 53' Evans Boxcar $55.207521 MN&S 53' Evans Boxcar $55.207627 Chessie EV Caboose $63.707631 Chessie EV Caboose $62.007632 GN EV Caboose $62.007635 RF&P EV Caboose $62.007743-3 Our Mother's Cocoa 40' Wood Reefer$65.959164-1 Washington Boro Tomato 40' Wood Ref.$67.959625 Santa Fe 60' Hy-cube Box $67.959753 L&NE 1923 ARA 40' Steel Box $55.209756 PRR X-29 Boxcar $61.709760 PRR X-29 Boxcar $61.709851 B&O PS-1 50' Plug Door Box $59.45S&H $8.00 for 1 car, $9.00 for 2 cars,$10.00 for 3 or more cars.Deichman’s Depot110 Ivyside Dr, York PA 17402Ph: 717-755-1108 • Fax: 717-840-9650deichmansdepot@<strong>com</strong>cast.netwww.deichmansdepot.<strong>com</strong>Irish TracklayerCOMING SOON!Etched rail anchors: Price TBASearchlight Signal Kit: $80Signal assembled: Price TBASemaphore Signal to followCheck our website for many brasssteam and Diesel castings.WWW.IRISHTRACKLAYER.COM2682 West Palo Alto AveFresno, CA 93711Chicago & NorthwesternCabooseCentral’s Latest ReleasesGP38-2, GP40-2, SD40-2, SD40T-2 & SD45T-2GP40-2The finest in modern O <strong>Scale</strong> Brass. 2 or 3-Rail operation. Machinedbrass frames and fuel tanks, Pittman motor with dual flywheels. Yourchoice of gear ratios, wheelsets, detail parts, etc. Custom built to yourspecs. Kits $650 - $800. Custom built, painted and lettered $1100 to$1400.Central Lo<strong>com</strong>otive WorksPO Box 1231 • Hesperia CA 92340ph 760-244-9222 • fax 760-244-9322e-mail clw2000@earthlink.netwww.centrallo<strong>com</strong>otiveworks.<strong>com</strong>Repairs - Sales - InstallationsStandard & Narrow GaugesFeaturing: Arttisa Lenz® Kadee® TichyBerkshire Valley Western <strong>Scale</strong> ModelsMt. Albert <strong>Scale</strong> Lumber Co. TomarNCE Corp. Xuron SoundTraxxBanta Modelworks Modeltech StudiosW. Warwick, RI 3/18 Timonium, MD 4/14-15others in CT, MA, MI, MD, NY, OH, PA, RIcall / write / email for other datesMajor Credit Cards Special & Mail OrdersProducts to make your railroad better !C r u s a d e rR A I L S E R V I C E S5920 Houghton St., Phila. Pa. 19128215-482-7530 crusaderrail@verizon.net> Laser cut plywood body with working windows> Full interior with roof ribs and purlins> Separate doors can be modeled in the open position> Urethane underframe> Decals for CNW, CStP M&O, and W&NW> Three different versionsO <strong>Scale</strong>Kit #403004 Late version with no end windows $120.00Kit #403005 Early version with end windows $120.00Kit #403006 Original all wood underframe $120.00Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 59
Realistic Passenger Car LightingEvery holiday season we find, yet again, the model railroadsetup in the shopping mall. There is the inevitable passengertrain chasing its tail around a loop of track at a scale 200 milesper hour. The car lights of its three passenger cars are blazing asif there were bonfires burning inside, flickering off and on as thewheels pass over each speck or gap in the track. The train is onlythree cars long because the interior lights take so much electricitythat the train power unit will not support more than that.I would like to talk about more realistic car lighting. Ofcourse, it involves my favorite subject, light emitting diodes(LED’s). LEDs are turning up everywhere, from flashlights tostreetlights. So what can they do in a model train layout? Thebeauty of LEDs is that they use very little electrical power. Theyalso last forever, can be very small, and are available in manydifferent colors. The thing to consider is that they require adirect current (DC) source. I would like to show how easy andinexpensive it is to add LED lighting to passenger cars. It workswith DC cab control and all <strong>com</strong>mand control systems. Thistopic will take more than one article, so I will start at the beginning.We need two items to power our LEDs. You’ll need a rectifierto convert the track voltage, whether you are using alternatingcurrent (AC) or switch-able polarity DC, to consistent polarityDC. Also needed is a current limiter to avoid overloading theLEDs. Both of these are simple, small, and cheap, Shown in Figure1 is a unit that is about 0.75” by 1.5” in size and 1/4” thick,costs less than $5, and can cost considerably less in quantity.Then you need the LEDs. White (actually bluish white) LEDsare the most expensive color, about $1 each. Yellowish LEDs,that match the lighting in older passenger cars, are actually lessexpensive at about $3 for ten.While this procedure does not require an electrical background,you might want to consult the electrical chapter in theFigure 1. Regulatorbook “A Guide to Modern O <strong>Scale</strong>” by O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.As shown in Figure 2, the four diodes are wired in what iscalled a bridge rectifier circuit. The input is connected to thetrack rails through the car’s wheels and, whether it is AC (3-railstyle or <strong>com</strong>mand style), or DC (switched based on direction ofmovement), the electricity <strong>com</strong>es out of the bridge rectifier asDC, polarized as shown by the plus sign. It is somewhat ragged,so the capacitor smoothes it a bit to insure it doesn’t interferewith any radio control circuits. The current then gets to the LEDsthrough the integrated circuit and the resistor. This particularintegrated circuit (called an LM317) has the characteristic that itwill not let the voltage across the resistor exceed 1.2 volts. Thus,if the resistor has a value of about 60 ohms, then by Ohm’s law(current equals voltage divided by resistance), the current cannotexceed 0.02 Amperes, usually called 20 mA, the amountneeded by the LEDs.Figure 2TRACKPWRDIODESTOPVIEW.01LM317LZ5OUT 1TOLEDSOUT 2OPTIONALCOMMONOUTSThis will send 20 mA into anything from a short circuit to asmany LEDs wired in series as the input voltage will support. Thevoltage used up by an LED depends on the color, going acrossthe spectrum from red at about 1.2 volts to blue at about 3.5volts. White, being a <strong>com</strong>bination, also requires about 3.5 volts.So, if we have <strong>com</strong>mand control for our train layout with about18 volts, we would lose about 1.5 volts in the diodes, 2.5 voltsin the regulator-resistor <strong>com</strong>bination, and have enough left forup to four LEDs. If you want to play safe, or if you use DC cabcontrol which uses a lower voltage for lower speeds, then use aseparate controller for each one or two LEDs, as actually shownin Figure 2.The parts can be mounted by drilling holes for leads in apiece of plastic, wood, or even cardboard, inserting the parts,and soldering the leads on the back. For that reason, Figure 3shows the wiring as seen from the back or bottom (Yes, we couldhave a printed circuit board made to make the wiring easier!)626260 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
Some passenger cars that I converted had four incandescentlight bulbs per car that each used about 1/4 Ampere. In thiscase, one car’s lights consumed about 1 Ampere, and a traincan easily use more electricity for lighting than for the lo<strong>com</strong>otivemotor. This <strong>com</strong>pares with 0.02 or 0.04 Ampere per car forLEDs. It would take 25 cars to use one amp of power.LED light projects more like a searchlight, so I aligned fourof them to point along the length of the car. Thus they light upthe O <strong>Scale</strong> people in the car and don’t directly shine out thewindows. They are very realistic (but are not as appropriate forpassenger cars that have silhouettes of occupants pasted on theinside of the car windows). Four LEDs per car tended to givemore even lighting, but one or two would be perfect for a <strong>com</strong>bineor a caboose.Parts List:All parts can be obtained from Digi-Key, Radio Shack (possiblyby order) or All Electronics. The only problem is thatvendors prefer to sell them by the bunch due to their low cost.Remember to connect the diodes (white stripe) and the regulator(flat side) in the correct direction. Also the longer LED lead is theplus lead. Backwards is bad news.QuantityFigure 3. WIRING SIDEItem4 1N4001 Diodes1 or 2 LM317LZ Regulators1 or 2 62 ohm 1/2 watt Resistors (or56 or 68)1 (Optional) Disk Capacitor(0.01 microfarad or anythingin that range)Now you have more current-efficient and more realisticlooking lighting in your passenger cars that is <strong>com</strong>patible withDC, 3-rail, or <strong>com</strong>mand control. You can run a more realistictrain with a diner, Pullmans, and a mail car in addition to thosecoaches, while consuming less of that precious power yourlo<strong>com</strong>otives would really like to have. You could even stringtwo red LED’s and one white LED in series in a caboose formarkers and internal lighting.But the lights will still flicker, just as the incandescent lightsdid. Next time we will describe how to get rid of the flicker.Here’s a hint. We will use an electrical flywheel.uBrian ScaceA fellow was posting his tale of woeon one of the forums the other day. Hewas converting three-rail trucks to tworail,and kept losing truck springs. Thisbrought to mind an old tip for manipulatingsmall springs that seem more interestedin escape than in employment.Take a needle and thread, and loop thethread through the spring. Knot it off ina loop, of a size easily hung on to. Put thespring in (I use a small flat-blade screwdriverto handle the li’l guy.) When it fliesoff in a desperate attempt at escape, youstill have it by the loop of thread. Onceyou (finally) succeed, clip the loop andgently slide the thread out, leaving thespring in place.You’ll find that putting springs intrucks or Kadee knuckles will be<strong>com</strong>emuch easier, just because the nervousnesslevel will go way down.“You cannot escape me!”uO.L.L.Co. GE switcher #27 coaxes a short trainthrough Kaloma yard heading west on Brian Ottaway’s OL&N.Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 61
OL&N Baldwin Shark #405 and AS616 #325 simmer in the afternoon sun by the engine house awaiting their next assignments.OL&N 2-6-6-0 #208 works its train past the yearly antique car show and sale event which attracts a large crowd of enthusiasts.62 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
Precision Turntables for the Discerning ModelerFEATURING PRO-DEX TM INFRA-RED POSITIONING & DYNAMIC BRAKINGNow it’s easy & exciting to operateprototypically: 1. Select direction2. Push run button 3. Watch bridgeadvance to any of 48 positions, thenslow & lock on desired track whenyou release button!AAA PRECISIONTURNTABLESPO Box 64, Plantsville, CT 06479, USA1-800-569-1423 • www.AAATurntables.<strong>com</strong>• Heavy-duty museum-quality construction• Realistic operation!• Painted and ready to run• Manufactured in all scales from Z to Gand all bridge sizes on a per order basis• Mfg in U.S.A. by skilled machinists usingCNC precision parts. Hand assembled & tested• Call for specs or visit our websiteTHE WESTERN RESERVE “O” SCALE TRAIN SHOWCLEVELAND, OHIOSaturday, November 3, 2007 9:00 am - 2:00 pmAdmission: $6.00 6’ Tables - $37.00LAKELAND COMMUNITY COLLEGEI90 and ST.RT. 306 (S.E. Corner)Held in the Auxiliary Gym / Athletic Center24 Hr. Police • Public Wel<strong>com</strong>e • Free Parking • 2-rail “O” scale only • Please no other gaugesSORRY NO PASSES ACCEPTED AT THIS SHOW • THIS SHOW IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE WESTERN RESERVE O SCALE COMMITTEE WHO ANNUALLY PUT ON A SIMILAR SHOWBOB FRIEDEN - 9695 CHILLICOTHE ROAD - KIRTLAND, OHIO 44094 - 440-256-8141 - FAX: 440-256-1749Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 63
An OL&N <strong>com</strong>pany employee inspects the journals of a ballast car prior to approving it for service.The OL&N yardmaster, with his faithful mutt, stands by the Kaloma yard signal shed waiting for the mornings’ activities to begin.64 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
One of the most creative features of John Armstrong’s Canandaigua Southern was his rendition of “Night Hawks”, arguably Edward Hopper’s most famouspainting. The scene has been preserved, thanks to John’s family, and is now part of Brian Scace’s new O <strong>Scale</strong> railroad. A new customer (at the far right) isseated at Chez Pierre; could this be the only O <strong>Scale</strong> model of an O <strong>Scale</strong>r?No big hoopla here. The “golden spike” is driven on OST’s Coal Creek Railway during its open house showing last December. N&W K3 #201 sits in thebackground waiting to take the crew home when they’re done. The loco is by Sunset and the figures are from Woodland Scenics.Mar/Apr ’07 - O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 65
Just <strong>Trains</strong> TM Free Shipping over $200 Orders (888) 453-9742 Info (302) 453-0465 www.justrains.<strong>com</strong>MTH 2007 Vol I Premier 2 or 3 RailAtlas New OfferingsAll engines are built to order . . . Reserve NowWeaver Blow-out . . . In-StockL-1 Mikado PRR, Interstate, LNE, Can & IN 825USRA 0-6-0 Switcher 485 TMCC 565Undec, Burl, CNJ, PRR, UPNKP L1a/L1b Hudson L1a Brooks or L1b Lima BuiltO-54, 2# each, Deflectors Optional TMCC 8254-6-6-4 Z-6 Challenger GN x 2, NP, SP&S 1299F-2 / F-3 Phase I Loco 2-R 369 Gold & 3-R 419Undec, CB&Q, NYC, RI, B&M, Lack, SouthernAvailable as Power A or B, Dummy A or B ($179)3-Rail VO-1000 TMCC, Railsounds, EOB $249MR, WP, Erie, NP, RI, NPR, C of GAHeritage Series 2R 399 3R w/Box & Caboose 4453 Rail Engine Only $399CNW, DRG, MP, Katy, SP, UP, WPMTH In-Stock <strong>Scale</strong> WheelsAlco RS-1 2-R 369 2-R Gold 389 3-R TMCC 389NYC, Amtrak, LI, Vermont RR, Spokane InternationalWeaver Wartime Gondola w/Die-Cast Trucks2 or 3-Rail $25 each or 4/$99 deliveredN&W, NYC, ATSF, MEC, CNJ, LV, NPR, UP, Sou,L&N, C&O, B&MK-Line20-3132 American Freedom T-1 PS 2.0 2-R $99920-3130 Reading T-1 PS 2.0 2-R $999 3-R $925RSD-7/15 Conventional 189 TMCC 299C&O, PRR, SF, SPAtlas - InstockK-Line 2-R Shay PLC, Lack, Undec $49920-3132-2 N&W J-Class PS 2.0 2-Rail $999B&O Fishbelly 4# 3R 49ea PRR War Hopper 8# 49 4/1904/190 2-R 52 ea 4/205 PRR War Bonds 2 #Atlas 2-Rail Lo<strong>com</strong>otives2-8-0 H-3 Consolidation PRR x 2, LI 2-R $635GP-35 2R DC BN, Rdg, SP, S&A, WM, NPR 2992R TMCC Und, GM&O, Sou, S&A, NPR, Rdg 32520-3160-2 PRR 2-10-4 J1a PS 2.0 2-Rail $99920-3167-2 Union Pacific 4-6-6-4 Challenger $1250SD-35 2R DC PRR, SP, B&O, CSX, PC 3252R TMCC JC, WM, PC 325 Dmy 185K-Line Woodside Reefers 2-R $35 4/$125Northwestern, PFE, Heinz Apple Butter, Heinz BakedBeans, McLahaney, Peacock, Oppenheimer, RobertsMeat, Chateau Wine, Nash Mustard, Century Beer,Robin Hood B2-8-0 19 th Century Steam WM, RG, GN 2-R $635RS-1 2R DC NH, SF, Ann Arbor, M&E, WT 3252R TMCC C&O, NH, AA, M&E, WT 349Atlas 3-R Lo<strong>com</strong>otives In-Stock-Stall 189 Xtra Stall 453-Truck Shay Cass, WM, Weyerhaeuser 2-R $999NYC Dreyfuss 2 versions 2 or 3-Rail $919C424/425 Power TMCC 415 Dummy 209MEC, CBR, PRR, E-L, D&H, CP, N&WShoe Factory 65
Jus <strong>Trains</strong>Orders (888) 453-9742Info (302) 453-0465Fax orders to (302) 368-6447*Mon-Fri 9-6 Sun 12-5*215 Newark Shopping CenterNewark, DE 19711Store open 7 days a week 11-65% Ship Allowance over $200Most orders shipped in 24 hrsMC VISA DISC. AMEXAtlas O GaugeUSRA 0-6-0 485 TMCC 565Undec, Burl, CNJ, PRR, UPRS-1 2-R 369 Gold or TMCC 389NYC, Amtrak, LI, VT, Spokane IntC-630 Diesel 3-R 415 Dmy 209CR, PRR, Rdg, UP Alco DemoGP-35 3-R 395 Dmy 195Chessie, GN, MP, Soo, UP,CNW, Guilford, RF&P, RG, HousDash 8 3-R 395 Dmy 195NS, CR Q, SF, AmtrakGP-9 3-R 389 Dmy 179Erie, C of GA, IC, M&SL, WP, SeabdC424/425 Dmy 209 3R 415 MEC,CBR, CN, PRR, EL, DH, CP, N&WGP-35 BN, Rdg, SP, S&A 3R 325GP-35 Burl, CN, C of GA 3R 345SD-35 SP, C of GA, L&N 325Custom SW B&O TMCC 299Alco RS-1 350 NH, SF, NP, AECB&O, Susq, PRR, BRW 385Gunderson Twin-Stack Cars2-Pk 119 3-PK 155 5-Pk 269BNSF, CSX, Conrail, TTXAPL, Maersk, OOCL, Sea LandPRR, C&O, L&N, MC, MP1923 X-29 Steel Box 3R 52 2R 56C&O, LNE, NPR, Rdg CNJ +$4PRR x 8 types 3R 58 2R 60USRA Sgl Sheath Box 3R 43 2R 46, MOW: SP, PRR, S/YJC, D&H, AA, Erie, PRR LinesChessie, Erie, GN, PC, CGW-1 Box 2-R 56 3-R 54GMO, MP, GN, C&O, Erie, L&N, RF&P17K Tank Car 2R 59 3R 56Occidental, Olin-Mathieson, PPG, SHPXPS-BN, Continental, ADM, B&M,Transport50 Ton War Hopper 3R 44 4/172GA, L&N Alton, Arbor, B&OAtlas Beer, Phenix, Merchant, Bourke,Fairmont, Nash, ART, Eatmor,WilsonErie, FEC, SF, WP, RG, Sou, MECTrainmanRSD-7/15 189 TMCC 299C&O, PRR, SF, SPRS-3 189 TMCC 289D&H, GN, Reading, RIGP-15 Conv. $209 Cmd $299Chessie, CR, NS, UPRolling Stock 2R 35 3R 33-Cube: NP, RG, SF, UP3-Bay PS-2: Burl, Chessie, Carbide, UP70 Ton 3-Bay: BN, WM, C&O, SouBox: PRR, PLE, Rdg, ACL, Burl, RI, UPPlug: FGE, CNJ, NP, SF, AFT, CB,NYC, PRR GN, MKT,D&RGW, UP, C&O, CPR, SF, UP C&O, PRR, UP, Reading,Chessie, CR, LV, SouE/V Caboose: C&O, CNW, CB, SF, RIChessie, CR, NS, UP, D&H, GN, RdgAtlas O GaugeACF 8K Tank 2R 55 3R 51s, Bell, CO-OP, Silver Fox, StaleyASD, Libby, Swift, Fosse, Jersey GoldKrey, Nuckoll, Sou Star, Page, Wescott,Crown, Kornblum, Wilson, Columbus,Noack, Swift, Kahns, Morning ButterE/V Caboose 2-R 64 3-R 60Ches, Family, GTW, Guilfd, Soo, HousaRutld, RG, RF&P,NE-6 Monongahela, Shawmut, NYS&W-1 Box car 2R 55 3R 51NH, Frisco, NYC, Sou, UPR 51MDT, Agar, Black Hills, PFE, SFUndec, ART, B&A, Lack, NP55 Ton Fishbelly 3R 43 2R 47CRR NJ, NS, Rdg, ACY, D&HB&O Fishbelly 4# 2R 52 3R 4911,000 Gal Tank Car 3-R 52 2R 56Gulf, Union,Warren, Homgas, EssotaneSunray, Pyrofax, Shippers, CA, FuelineUSRA 55 Ton Hopper 3R 45 2R 49NYC, PRR, Burl, JC, Public ServiceNH, Lack, Pitt & Shaw2R 56NH, CN, SF, Sou, SPErie, NH, Pere Marquette (C&O) $45ACF 3-Bay Cyl Hopper 3R 52 2R 56EL, CSX, Cumberland, Hercules, USI-Pk 205Carling, Goetz, Grain Belt, HillsboroPhenix, ART, Fairmont, Bourk-DonAtlas Track3- 165Deck Bridge 2 or 3 Rail 8299 Dble 125 Add-on 32Remote Switch, Steel or Nickel 48.95O36 O45 O54 O72 Wye#5 Double-Slip Switch 125O72/O54 Curved Switch or #5 637.5 (O81) High Speed Switch 66 12.00 Case (12) $139 $149 3.15 Case (48) $1451 ¾ 4-1 ¾ Uncoupler 9.95 Under Table 13.30Accessory Rails 9.95 Switch Machine 10O27 Curve 3.60 3 Circles (24) 82O36 Curve 3.15 2 Circles (24) 70O45 Curve 3.60 2 Circles (24) 82O63 Curve 4.20 2 Circles (32) 129O72 Curve 4.75 2 Circles (32) 145O81 Curve 5.55 1 Circle (16) 85O90 Curve 6.60 1 Circle (16) 99O99 Curve 7.45 1 Circle (16) 112Type G or SA Signal 49 4-Pk 185Dwarf Switch Signal 25 4-Pk 99Largest Atlas DealerGargraves (USA)O Gauge 219Stainless Phantom Case 265itch Man 29 Rem 45Above w/DZ-2500 TMCC $50RC Uncplr #107 $21 Op. #108 $ 26Gantry Crane Track 17.50 Stainless 1990 Degree Crossing $17 Video $8Now with Wood TiesCircle 032/ $35 042/ $41 054/ $54063/ $57 072/ $61 080/ $78089/ $82 096/ $85 106/$89S-Gauge, G-Gauge, Std Gauge AlsoGolden Gate DepotB70 Baggage, PB70 Combine, &BM70 Mail RPO 3-Pk 349(2) B70 or (2) PB70 or (2) BM70 249Available in 2 or 3-RailAssembled Coaling Tower 16912-1 Sleeper 90 Roads Below 4-Pk Coaches 399B&O, C&O Green, CB&Q Green,NH Green, CP Red, NP Pine, N&WGN Empire, SF Green, SP Daylight,SP Green, UP Yellow, UP Gray,Ours: NYC Pullman Green, B&MLionelJ.L.C. C&O Allegheny 1325CNW U33C Pwr 299 Dmy 105Hot Box 60 PFE, SF, MDT, SwiftMTA R-27 4-Car 575 2-Pk 265C&O F-19 4-6-2 Pacific 969C&O Hvywt 4-Pk 355 2-Pk 195SD40-2 w/TMCC NS, CN 357SD40-2 Dmy 142 GP30 Dmy 129GP30 w/TMCC CP, Chessie 329Alaska GP38-2, TMCC 329 Dmy 135E7 AA 565 Dmy B 127 Pwr B 249Union Pacific, New York CentralF7 ABA 735 Pwr B 249 PRR, SFBreakdown B-Unit $235JLC PRR GG-1 Tuscan or Grn 725Acela Passenger 3-Car Add-on 529Premium Sets - TMCC30025 C&O Super Freight 39930026 CP Freight, SD90Mac 44531747 PRR BB1 Ballast Train 44531748 SF U28CG Diesel Freight 60531749 PRR GP30 Coal Train 605DZ Products -InstockDZ-1010 Crossing Gate Set 79DZ-1011 Block Signal Detectors 19DZ-1020 Crossing Signal Set 55DZ-1030 Wigwag Signal Set 79DZ-1040 UQ or LQ Semaphore 49DZ-1050 3-Light Trackside Signal 36DZ-1060 7-Light Trackside Signal 39DZ-1200 Station Announcement 85DZ-1220 Trolley Stop & Control 79DZ-1240 Auto Stop & Reverse 38DZ-1260 Water Tower Animator 36DZ-1265 Fuel Station Animator 38DZ-2500 TMCC Switch Machine 25Korber Models201 Stone Arch Bridge 24304 3- 189304A Xtra Stall or 304B Extender 45305 Sandhouse, 16 x 6 45306 Diesel Shed 25 x 11 2-Stall 69One Stall Deisel Shed w/Shop 59307 3-Stall Trolley Barn 23 x 11 85308 Quincy Machine 10 x 11 45315 Grain Silo, 7 x 19 x 22 H 75320 3-320A Add-on Stall 45902 Jaybar Corporation 6 x 8 23903 Skyline Steel 6 x 8 23905 Blackshear Refrig. Transport 49908 Shanahan Freight 75912 Roller Bearing Co. 85914 Gem Packing 27915 Quaker Foods 9 x 12 45917 Gen Lt & Power Sub Station 32921 JLC Manufacturing 65950 American Flag Co. 14 x 9 65ctory 14 x 9 65954 Buck Island Canning 8 x 12 49955 RJK Tool & Die 9 x 14 54956 James Company 13 x 8 x 9H 49957 Lewis & Sons Machine 6 x 8 24958 Mill Works 11 x 7 w/Tower 49959 Midland Supply 2-Story 8 x 6 32967 Shoe Co. 7 skylts 20 x 9 x 11 69968 Jenco Freight Terminal 9 x 11 49969 Gen Lt & Pwr Office 6x13x12 65Third Rail BrassIn-Stock Free ShippingC&O Late Allegheny, Ltd No. 1595PRR N-1 2-10-2 Conventional 800PRR O1 Passenger Electric 2-Pk 999PRR MP54 Electric 499 Dummy 349PRR Q-1 4-4-6-4 Skirted 1100SF 3800 2-10-M10,000 4-Unit Set, TMCC 995Call us on New AnnouncementsTransformersMRC Dual Pure Power 270W 219MRC Pure Power 135W 154MRC Power G 10 Amp DC 154Lionel 80Watt 85 Lionel ZW 365Williams Universal 150 Watt 99MTH Z-4000 375 Z-1000 75MTH 2007 Vol I2 or 3-RailL-1 2-8-2 Mikado $825PRR, Interstate, L&NE, Cam & INM-2 4-6-6-4 Challenger $1299W. MD, B&O, Southern0-4-0 Switcher $549NYC, SF, C&O, Sou, PRR0-6-0 USRA Switcher $529CNW, GT, SAL, P&WV, UP4-6-6-4 Z-6 Challenger $1299GN x 2, NP, SP&SDash 8-40C Narrow 3R 385 2R 402CNW, CSX, UP, NS Dmy $142GE U30C Power 3R 385 2R 399BN, NS, Rdg, UP Dummy $142SD70Ace Diesel 2-Rail Only $399CNW, DRG, MP, Katy, SP, UP, WPPremier Steam 3-RailN&W 2-6-6-4 Class A $1299CN 4-8-2 U1F Mountain $1019C&O 4-8-4 Greenbrier $1019Premier Diesel 3-RailC-Liner ABA CN, LI, NH, NYC $615E-6 ABA $615 Dummy $135ACL, MP, SouthernF-7 ABA $615 Dummy $135CN, C&O, Potomac, ReaadingFT ABA $615 Dummy $135CNW, LV, MR, WPGP-30 Power $359 Dummy $135RG, PRR, WC, B&O, GN, SFGP-40 Power $359 Dummy $135CN, MKT, RF&P, WMSD24 Power $359 Dummy $135BN, CNW, Southern, UPSD60M Power $385 Dummy $142Conrail, CSX, NS, UPI/R Diesel Box Cab $445B&O, JC, CNW, Erie, RdgEL3 Jack Shaft Electric Set $1195VA, MR, NH, N&WPremier Specialty SetsR40 4-Car Subway 445 2-Car 168IC E-6 City of Miami Pass Set 615SD70Ace Diesel Heritage Sets 445CNW, DRG, MP, Katy, SP, UP, WPChessie GP-40 Show train Set 445North Shore 4-Car Electroliner 539Red Arrow 4-Car Liberty Liner 539SD70Ace Twin-Stack Freight Set 649CSX, BNSFC&O 4-8-4 Greenbrier Pass Set 1125CN 4-8-2 U1f Passenger Set 1125Premier Passenger Cars-Car C&O, CN 135Combine/Diner, Baggage/CoachC&O, CN 685-ACL, Southern, MP, CN2-2-ACL, Southern, MP, CN, ICACL, Sou, MP, CN, UPNYC, ACL, Sou, MP, PRR, CN, UPPremier Freight Car Sets100 Ton Hopper 6-Pk 215Alberta, Canada, Can Wheat, Sask2-Bay Fishbelly Hopper 6-Pk 215C&O, N&W, PRR, WM 12#Beer Reefer 6-Pk 215Altoona 36, Fort Pitt, Budweiser, Erie-Pk 215CNW, DRG, MP, MKT, SP, UP, WPTwin Stack Container Set5-Car 289 3-Car 185 2-Car 135BNSF, CSX, TTX, SPPremier Caboose 2# 51Bay Window: B&O, CN, CR, LVExtended Vision: NH, Rdg, Sou, WMN-8: PRR 2 SchemesR50B Express Reefer Car 51PRR x 2, REA, C&OPRR, CP Jordan Spreader 592-Rail Trucks availableWeaver Models 2007Interlocking Tower 3 x 65B-6 0-6-0 Switcher TMCC,RS 495PRR, PRSL 2-R 445Baldwin 2-8-0 Switcher 2R 459O-EOB 3-R TMCC 525WM, NKP, NYC, PRR, Rdg, BM, CNLV, C&O, GN, N&W, CNW, UP, NP,Sou, MR, B&O, SF, Lack, L&N, MEC,Grand Canyon, US Army, NH, GTWCanadian Express 4-6-4 2R/3R 939 TMCC 1039New Haven I-5 TMCC/EOB 1049O- Script or BlockCN U4a Royal Train 2R 945 Cmd 1045GTW U4b 4-8-4 2/3R 945 Cmd 1045SALEN&W 8-wheel Cabin Cars 210Class CF: Red Class CG: 2 Red, BlueVO 1000 Cmd/EOB/RS 249MR, WP, Erie, NP, RI, NPR, C of GAPullman-Bradley 4-Car $3252R or 3R BAR, KCS, SP, UP, SLSWWartime Gondola w/Die-Cast Trucks$25 each or 4/$99 deliveredN&W, NYC, ATSF, MEC, CNJ, LV,Rdg, UP, Sou, LN, CO, B&M, RIDiesel Lo<strong>com</strong>otive 2R 239 Cmd 309Pullman Troop Sleeper 6# 2R/3R 85Troop Kitchen or Hospital 6# 85Kitchen WM Speed, WM, Undec,US Army Trans Corp, US ArmyTroop MOW Cars 4# no interiors 75Kitchen Monon, CBQ, Army GuardN&W, UndecSleeper WM (4) , PRR, L&N, Lack,C&O, N&W, NYC, GTW, ErieTroop Express Cars 4# 62 REA,PRR, N&W, NYC, NH, C&O, CNB60b Baggage/ Mail Car 4# 75Round Window: PRR Keystone, PRRREA, PRR Express, Undec, LIRectangular: N&W, Undec, PRR 79N&W, PRR, PRR Keystone, CN,B&M, NH, UndecPullman-Bradley 4/ 415 6/ 615B&M, GTW, NH Green, NH McGinnisNH Blk Knight, CN 2-Tone Green,CN Royal Train (Crown Logo 6#),CN Royal (Crest Logo, 2#) $105 eaRolling Stock 2 or 3-RailPlastic Truck 28 Die-Cast Truck 37 -1 BoxSteel Side Box Box Outside Braced Box 2-Bay Ribbed2-Bay Offset 2-Bay Composite3-Bay Offset 4-Bay High Side9-Pannel PS-2 CD GrainPS- 4-Bay CenterflowArmy (2)NH, Rut, B&M, GN, WM, NP, Rdg, NWoads 38 DC 47Army (2), NH, Rut, B&M, GN, WM, NP,Rdg, N&W 4 Load typesAPL, Mitsui, Hanjin, NYK, Evergrn, NOLHamburg,Maersk, Xtra Load 38 DC 47Wood Side Reefer 29 DC 38 REA,Brookside, Carnation, CM&SP, CN,White Rock, Hofbrau, Steinlager, OBC,AC-2 Covered Hopper 29 DC 38 30 DC 39CN, MEC, NW/MP, BN, UP, BAR, PFE,BNSF, PA, Trop (5), MR, CNW, Snd $15Northeastern Caboose 37 DC 46RoadRailers 35 DC 39 Triple CrownAmtrak, Swift (2), CN (2), Express Track,Ice Cold Express, Schneider, Alliance,Wabash, US Mail, Clipper Cplr Mate $10
Buy–Sell–Trade EventsBuy-Sell-Trade ads are $5 for 30 words plus your address information. Additional words are $0.25 each. Subscribers are permitted one free ad per subscriptioncycle . All B-S-T ads are prepaid. You may send ads by postal service with a check or money order. Ads sent by email or called in must use acredit card. See our contact info on page 2.FREE O SCALE LIST: List of O <strong>Scale</strong> shows for 2007. SendLSSAE to Bob Retallack, Dept OST07, 2224 Adner Ct,Columbus, OH 43220.VAN BUREN, ARKANSAS. Area’s neatest hobby store from Z toO, new and used. Visit Dave’s Hobby Shop at 600 Main St inthe Anhauser Busch Building or online at [www.daveswebshop.<strong>com</strong>], 479-471-0750.INTERMOUNTAIN built-up box cars, reefers, gondolas, hoppers,tankers... $39. Keystone, Max Gray, NJ Brass, Overland,Pacific Limited, Precision <strong>Scale</strong>, SASE. The Brassroundhouse.<strong>com</strong>. Now stocking HO. Phone: 727-391-3135 John Clemens,5273 97 Way N, St. Petersburg, FL 33708-3752.WANTED: Overland Models O <strong>Scale</strong> FL9. Call Roy, 909-822-5057.FOR SALE: WSM C&O T1 2-10-4, Ptd $2200; Key C&O H82-6-6-6, ptd $3400; Yoder C&O hoppers, 4 ptd & ltd, 1 NIB;USH hoppers 4 ptd & ltd, 1 NIB. Call Harry Bender, 410-361-1889, or after 6PM EST 410-488-4259.March 20073: Wind Gap, PennsylvaniaEastern O <strong>Scale</strong>rs 2-Rail Swap Meet: At the Plainfield FireHall, 6480 Sullivan Trail, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. Admission$5; (spouses & children under 14 are free), $16.00 for thefirst table (includes one admission) and $12.00 for eachadditional table. Dealer’s set-up Friday evening 6:00 p.m.to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday morning 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.Info/reservations, SASE – EOS, PO Box 1781, BensalemPA 19020; (215) 264-9623. Bring an index card with yourname, address, etc., for a dollar off your admission. Contacteostrains@<strong>com</strong>cast.net17-18: Park Ridge, IllinoisChicago Midwest O <strong>Scale</strong> March Meet: Largest O <strong>Scale</strong> meetin the country. Hundreds of vendors. Held at the SheratonChicago Northwest Hotel (847-394-2000). For more infowrite March Meet, PO Box 333, Park Ridge IL 60068 or call847-823-1719. Contact marchmeet@sbcglobal.net25: Hudson, MANew England 2-Rail & Hi-Rail O <strong>Scale</strong> Train Show: Sunday atthe Hudson Elks Hall, 99 Park St., Hudson, MA from 10 AMto 4 PM. White Elephant table, sales & exhibits, operatinglayouts, model display area, door prizes, food on site. 6 ft.vendor tables $15 before 3/1 and $20 after. Setup 6:30 AM to10 AM. Admission: $4.00, 5-12 $1.00. Contact: Larry Grant(508) 337-6661. Contact BigBrotherLar@netzero.netMay 20074-6: Villanova, PennsylvaniaEast Penn Traction Club 18th National Model Trolley Meet:Over 23,000 Sq. Ft. of Trolley Fun! Manufacturer and DealerTables. Awards for Modules and Displays. Operating TrolleyLayouts (All scales, 3/4”, 1/2”, G, O, HO). Slides, Movies &Videos. Model Contests. Door Prizes. Clinics including Buildingan East Penn Trolley Module from Start to Finish. SundayFantrip. This year’s meet contest theme is “Trolley FreightLo<strong>com</strong>otives”. The Pavilion at Villanova University. LancasterAve. (US Rt. 30), Villanova PA 19085, near I-476 and SEPTARegional Rail and Norristown High Speed Lines. Fri 6:00 PM-10:00 PM, Sat 9:00 PM-10:00 PM, Sun Fantrip. $18.00 per68 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07WISCONSIN DELLS MINIRAMA items wanted! Pictures,slides, home movies, etc., of this tourist attraction. Lookingfor the person who has eight circus train cars from the circustrains that ran on this diorama. Also want to know the whereaboutsof John Carruthers, Ted Saunders, Bud Edwards, andFrank Dietrich. Your help would be greatly appreciated in myresearch. Jeff Haertlein, Box 328, North Freedom WI 53591,GNX582@webtv.net or 608-522-3326.LAYOUT FINISHING SERVICES: Experienced modeler with40+ years experience will enhance your scenery and structureson your layout. Northeast modeler, from new construction torenovation of your existing layout. Portfolio/references availableon request. Bonded. Serving the Northeast. John Schaub,Railroad Model Scenery Sturios. Email -[railroadmodelscenery@yahoo.<strong>com</strong>], phone: 516-946-6880.WANTED: Erie E8 A-A two-tone green. Call Dick at 617-901-1105WANTED: SP steam, Diesels, any condition. Also AMTRAKbrass Diesels and cars. Al Espinosa, 316 E. Camden Ave., ElCajon CA, 92020, 619-593-0886, hotrod57ford@hotmail.<strong>com</strong>.person, $20 after April 21st. Spouses and children are admittedfree with a registered adult. Dealer tables are $20 each.Sunday fantrip is extra fare. Contact: Charles Long-Registrar,17 Lanfair Rd., Cheltenham, PA 19012-1810, (215) 635-5288.www.eastpenn.org Contact prtptc17@navpoint.<strong>com</strong>August 20074: Denver, PennsylvaniaEastern O <strong>Scale</strong>rs 2-Rail Swap Meet at the Denver Fire Hall,4th and Locust, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. Admission $5; (spouses &children under 14 are free), $16.00 for the first table (includesone admission) and $12.00 for each additional table. Dealer’sset-up Friday evening 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturdaymorning 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Info/reservations, SASE – EOS,PO Box 1781, Bensalem PA 19020; (215) 264-9623. Bring anindex card with your name, address etc., for a dollar off youradmission. Contact eostrains@<strong>com</strong>cast.net.September 200720-22: Indianapolis, Indiana2007 O <strong>Scale</strong> National Convention: Sponsored by the Indy“O” <strong>Scale</strong> Meet and O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>. Held at theIndianapolis Marriott East, 7202 East 21st St, Indianapolis.Rooms are $59 to $79 per night with FREE parking. Threedayadmission is $30. Tables are $40. We will have 20,000sq. ft of selling and display space for nothing but O <strong>Scale</strong>trains! For more details contact Jim Canter, 317-782-3322.Held at the Indianapolis Marriott East, 7202 East 21st St, Indianapolis,IN 46219, Ph: 317-322-3716. Contact jcanternkp@sbcglobal.<strong>com</strong>October 200727: Wind Gap, PennsylvaniaEastern O <strong>Scale</strong>rs 2-Rail Swap Meet: At the Plainfield FireHall, 6480 Sullivan Trail, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. Admission $5;(spouses & children under 14 are free), $16.00 for the firsttable (includes one admission) and $12.00 for each additionaltable. Dealer’s set-up Friday evening 6:00 p.m. to 9:00p.m. and Saturday morning 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Info/reservations,SASE – EOS, PO Box 1781, Bensalem PA 19020;(215) 264-9623. Bring an index card with your name, addressetc., for a dollar off your admission. eostrains@<strong>com</strong>cast.net
2007 O <strong>Scale</strong> National 56AAA Turntables 63Allegheny <strong>Scale</strong> Models 16Amer. O <strong>Scale</strong> Prof. Services 40AM Hobbies 29Armstrong Tool & Supply 41Arttista 30Atlas OIBCBaldwin Forge & Machine 31Banta Modelworks 26Brummy's Ballast 26BTS 13Buffalo Creek Graphics 30Central Lo<strong>com</strong>otive Works 59Clever Bros. 31Clever Bros. 45Crusader Rail Services 59Custom Signals 33Deichman's Depot 59DM&M Railroad Co. 59Eagles Nest Miniatures 42East Gary Car Co. 50Get Real Productions 69GHB International 10Golden Gate Depot 49Great <strong>Scale</strong> Model Train Show 10Hackworth Model <strong>Trains</strong> 50Hill's Hobby 57House of Duddy 40Howard Zane 55Irish Tracklayer 59Just <strong>Trains</strong> 66,67Keil-Line Products 50Key Imports 39LaBelle Woodworking Co. 45Mesa Models 16Metrowest Show 10Model Building Services 59Model Crafters 48Model Tech 42Model Train Software 11M.T.H. Electric <strong>Trains</strong> 52Mullett River 59NCE Corp 40Norm’s O <strong>Scale</strong> 33O <strong>Scale</strong> Realty 42Old & Weary Car Shops 18Old Pullman 39PA Heritage Models 24P&D Hobby Shop 19Precision <strong>Scale</strong> Co. IFCPublic Delivery Track 31Raggs to Riches 24Rail Dreams 45Railroad Collectibles 34Rails Unlimited 59RCS of NE 26Red Caboose 26Ross Custom Switches 4San Juan Car Co. 52Scenic Express 33Stevenson Preservation Lines 15Sumpter Valley Depot 45Suncoast Models 42Sunset⁄3rd RailBCToy Trucker 3TrainAmerica 42Turner Model Works 31Twin Whistle Sign & Kit 42Valley Model <strong>Trains</strong> 31Vinylbed/Hobby Innovations 26Weaver 63Western Reserve O <strong>Scale</strong> Meet 63Western <strong>Scale</strong> Models 57Woodland Scenics 15Advertisers IndexMar/Apr ’07- O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> • 69
Happy Birthday to UsYes, it’s our Fifth Anniversary issue and, let me tell you,we’re happy to be here! It’s been a rough year for modelrailroad magazines. In case you have not yet heard, MainlineModeler ceased publication last year, as did ModelRailroading (the one from Colorado, not the one from Wisconsin).Both had been in circulation for 20-plus years.Other publications have had trouble staying on schedule aswell.I think OST has made it’s mark on O <strong>Scale</strong>. Our opinionsare valued by readers and vendors alike. It’s pretty coolwhen a manufacturer calls you up and asks for your opinionabout a model they’re considering.We continue to grow steadily with new subscribers andwe increase our print runs as needed to cover the new folks.About 40% of you are Hi-Railers and that number is risingsteadily. And, as you can see from the letters column thisissue, Hi-Rail is an important part of O <strong>Scale</strong>, much to thechagrin of some folks. To those folks I’ll say this. You want a“zero tolerance of 3-Rail” magazine, you’re going to have topublish it yourself. We’re here to provide O <strong>Scale</strong> informationand inspiration. To be honest, we also are here to makea profit, or there’s no magazine at all. In that pursuit, wecannot neglect 40% of our readership. So, here’s to the firstfive years and five times five more!On a Sad NoteGordon Whitlock, a good acquaintance and great O<strong>Scale</strong>r has died. Gordon’s C&O Boyertown Division layoutwas featured in OST#6. Gordon didn’t live that far way andwe became very friendly. He let me use his layout to testrun lo<strong>com</strong>otives before I had any track on the OST layout.He also helped me build a curved switch on the layout andwe were planning to do more. Gordon was also very activein the Cherry Valley O <strong>Scale</strong> Club in New Jersey. I don’thave all the details of his passing. I do know he had beenhospitalized for some time and that he had been diagnosedwith a brain tumor. Gordon was a great guy, willing to lenda hand to help almost anyone in O <strong>Scale</strong>. I’m going to missseeing him at the local meets. I’m sure he will be missed bymany others, as well.The BlogI’ve made some changes to the OST Interactive Forum[www.oscalemag.<strong>com</strong>/wordpress/]. First of all I’ve changedthe name to reflect what it really is, a blog. For those of younot hip to Net-speak, “blog” is short for web-log, usuallya written online journal. In addition to posting our regularcolumnists, both Brian and I have special “Projects” pages.Look for Gene Clements to join us there soon. The “Projects”pages are set aside for personal projects you won’t seein the pages of OST. Register at the OST Blog and you canpost <strong>com</strong>ments on anything you see there. One of the thingsI’ve posted recently is the official OST “Policy on ProductReviews”. Product reviews are a mainstay of most modelrailroad magazines and OST is no different. However, somemagazines have been criticized for never having anything“not good” to say about almost any product. At OST, wecall it like we see it. If there’s a short<strong>com</strong>ing, we’ll point itout and let you, the reader, decide if you can live with it. Toread the policy, go to the OST Blog and click on the “Pages”bar on the right side. It will slide open and show you thelink to the policy.The other thing I’ve changed about the blog is the lookof the pages. I hope you will find it easier to navigate and Iencourage you to post your <strong>com</strong>ments.Miscellaneous StuffSeveral people responded to my request for articles butwe can always use more. I’m especially interested in articlesabout DCC installations, especially if you have converted aDCS or TMCC lo<strong>com</strong>otive to DCC. Anyone?I am also looking for scenery articles. You’ll see the "StoneWalls" article Jaini and I did in this issue. I’d like to hear aboutyour scenery ideas and projects.MTH has announced a new “wireless” tether for their PremierLine steam lo<strong>com</strong>otives (see the photo left). Why shouldwe care? Any new Proto 3-2steam locos will get this newtether system and that willmake the locos look betterand couple closer.However, I’m a bit disappointedin the way MTH hasbeen marketing the Proto 3-2stuff to 2-Railers. One the one hand they say the reservationnumbers aren’t large enough to warrant doing some 2-Railmodels. On the other hand, there’s little offered in the Winter2007 catalog to order in the first place. It’s Catch-22.I hope the marketing people at MTH will figure out how toget the news out to 2-Railers. They have some seriously nicestuff to offer. The WM H-9 they did last year was awesome,but by the time we learned about it, it was sold out.Keep Highballin’u70 • O <strong>Scale</strong> <strong>Trains</strong> - Mar/Apr ’07
ATLASOSCALE - Lo<strong>com</strong>otives! Tankers! Gondolas! Hoppers!ATLAS O GP9 LOCOMOTIVESNew Paint Schemes & Road Numbers!• Operating Diesel exhaust unit• Die-cast metal chassis/sill unit, fuel tank, and pilots• All metal handrails, stanchions, and grab irons• Available in 3-Rail TMCC, 2-Rail DC, & 2-Rail SoundCheck out these NEW Paint Schemes!• Central of Georgia, Illinois Central,Minneapolis & St. Louis, Western Pacific †For more information, visit:www.atlaso.<strong>com</strong>/ogp93.htmwww.atlaso.<strong>com</strong>®QSI ® ,Quantum Systemare registered trademarks ofQSIndustries, Inc.O GP9 LOCOMOTIVESATLAS O 40’ USRACOMPOSITE GONDOLA!New Paint Schemes & Road Numbers!• Fully detailed inside and out• Die-cast Andrews-style trucks• Die-cast chassisCheck out these Available Paint Schemes!• Chesapeake & Ohio*, Louisville & Nashville*,Michigan Central*, Missouri Pacific † ,PRRFor more information, visit:www.atlaso.<strong>com</strong>/o40gondola1.htmO 17,600 GALLON TRINITYCORN SYRUP TANK CARO 70 TONCOVERED HOPPERATLAS O 17,600 GALLON TRINITYCORN SYRUP TANK CARNew Model!• Separately applied details such as: train line hoses, coupler cut levers,brake rigging, bottom outlet valve & valve handle, and metal grab irons• Highly detailed body with prototypical jacket seams• Accurate painting and printingCheck out these Available Paint Schemes!• ADM, Cargill Foods, GATX, LSI, TrusweetFor more information, visit:www.atlaso.<strong>com</strong>/otcstc.htmO 40’ USRA COMPOSITE GONDOLAATLAS O 70 TON COVERED HOPPERNew Paint Schemes & Road Numbers!• True ¼” dimensions and detail• Open triangular or closed side panels as appropriate per road name• Operating hatch locking mechanismCheck out these NEW Paint Schemes!• Boston & Maine, Delaware & Hudson, Edgar Clays, Pere Marquette*For more information, visit:www.atlaso.<strong>com</strong>/o70tonhoppers3.htm*CSX Licensed Product †Union Pacific Licensed ProductTo fi nd an Atlas O dealer, go to http ://www.atlaso.<strong>com</strong>/locator/locator.aspFor the NEW Atlas O <strong>Scale</strong> 2006-07 Fall/Winter Catalog, please send $5 ($7 outside the US) to the address belowAtlas O, LCC • 378 Florence Avenue • Hillside, NJ 07205
UNION PACIFIC FEF-3 4-8-4COMING 2007SUPER SCALESunset Models announces the very best model ever built of the UP 4-8-4 FEF-3. One version is exactly as the UPtour engine looks today (Black Boiler). Any changes made over the years will be included on this model.The second version is the gray painted FEF-3 that will light up your railroad or display case. These are all brass,hand built models made by the finest craftsmen in the world in Korea. Production is limited to 50 models of eachengine number in 2 or 3 rail. Priced under $1300 each they are a bargain <strong>com</strong>pared to models costing 3 times asmuch in brass. Reservations are limited, so don’t hesitate, contact your dealer or call 1-800-3RD-RAIL today.You deserve the best, so why not own the best... 3rd Rail.All 2 Rail models <strong>com</strong>e with a Huge 9000 Series Pittman Motor, Kadee Coupler and Sunset’s Exclusive, “Quiet Drive”Mechanism. With a fully detailed cab interior and figures, a myriad of opening hatches and vents, this is one of themost accurate and detailed models ever made of the FEF-3.SUNSET MODELS INC. TM37 South Fourth Street · Campbell, CA · 95008 · 408-866-1727 · fax 408-866-5674 · www.3rdrail.<strong>com</strong>
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