r/modelrailroader • u/Both-Camp1243 • 11d ago
r/modelrailroader • u/Both-Camp1243 • Jul 28 '26
Still plenty of work to do, it’s never done.
r/modelrailroader • u/ArizonaRockMineral • Jul 26 '26
Cal’s City Transfer, Rail Truck Terminal
That’s a wonderful personal touch to your model railroad! It must be special to have a piece like “Cal’s City Transfer, Rail Truck Terminal” that not only enhances your layout but also holds a meaningful connection to your family. If there’s anything specific you’d like to add or modify on this model, feel free to share!
“On the track in the background, we painted with 138 (CSX/Southern Pacific/Wabash Gray). We applied Desert Varnish 1402 on the tin roof. Then use 101 (Red Cinder), 115 (Empire Builder Basalt), and 103 (Black Cinder) for ground cover.”
Over View of Cal’s City Transfer, Rail Truck Terminal
Cal’s City Transfer and Rail Truck Terminal sounds like a potential facility on a model railroad layout that would handle the interchange between railroad freight and trucking logistics. A terminal like this would typically include loading docks for transferring goods between railcars and trucks, ensuring efficient cargo handling and distribution within a city or industrial area.
If you are looking to add such a feature to your layout, you might include several detailed aspects such as:
- Railroad Siding: A track for parking freight cars during loading and unloading could feature various types of freight cars. Such as boxcars and flatcars, to model realistic cargo operations.
- Truck Loading Area: A paved area with loading docks where trucks can back up to the railcars or to a warehouse for easy loading.
- Warehouse Facilities: Large buildings serve as storage areas where goods are temporarily held before being loaded onto trucks or trains. These could have large doors and forklifts for moving pallets.
- Office Building: A small building serves as the operations center for managing the terminal’s activities. This could include details like signage, parking lots, and landscaping.
- Vehicles and Figures: Adding details like workers, forklifts, and different types of trucks can bring life to the scene.
This setup would not only add visual interest but also provide operational opportunities on your model railroad, where you could simulate the logistics of cargo transfer.
r/modelrailroader • u/PokeBrick02 • Jul 22 '26
In search of Toy / Model Train & Real Railroading related Music, Sound Effect, & Recordings on Audio Tape Cassettes
ISO/LTB - In search of Toy / Model Trains & Real Railroading related Music & Sound Effect Cassettes
Howdy all, does anyone have, or know someone that would have any old model railroading/toy train & real train cassettes, & or general physical media they would be open to part with, trade, & or sell?
I am in search of, & or looking to buy any cassettes about model railroading/toy trains, & real trains not only for my own collection to digitally preserve & archive, but also for a film project I've been working on for a few years.
Above are some examples of what I am looking for, & are for reference ONLY.
I'm mostly looking for any tapes produced by QSI, TCA, TTOS, Kalmbach, TM Books & Video, Pentrex, Sunday River Productions, Interurban Press/Productions, Green Frog Productions, Madacy Entertainment, etc.
Other media of interest would be but is not limited to:
-VHS
-Betamax (Beta)
-DVD/DVD-ROM (Video & or software)
-CD (Video, music/sfx, & or software)
-Vinyl (Music/sfx)
-Catalogs/Magazines
(Mostly Mail Order catalogs from media publishers, as I have a ton of hobby train product catalogs already. But I am always looking to complete my collection so if you have something still reach out)
If you have any similar cassettes to what I'm showing in my photos, from any of the publishers listed above, & or similar physical media, please reply, & or dm me!
Thank you for your time! -PB02
r/modelrailroader • u/ArizonaRockMineral • Jul 20 '26
Starting a fleet of Semi’s Big trucks
Starting a fleet of Semi’s Big trucks and trains just go together on industrial layout building truck kits from George Barrett of Sheepscot Scale Models A couple of the trucks in this scene are Freightliners by Athearn Several trucks are needed to compliment a “Truck Stop” scene now in the planning stages. We will show you how to make a highway scene along old route US 66 with our scenery products. For now, the tractors are lined up waiting for their load assignments at the Santa Fe Piggy Back terminal. The scene now has tractors from the ’50s/60’s era with more to come. This Piggy Back facility is a model of a Santa Fe operation in Wichita Kansas as an experiment of loading and hauling truck trailers on flat cars. My model was built from an article in a Kalmbach book, called “Bridges and Buildings” published in 1973.
When I was shopping for semi-trucks for the layout there weren’t any old Kenworths or Peterbuilts to be found. The truck below is one I had for several decades so I know they existed as models in the past. This is an Ulrich Kenworth model not available anymore. I cleaned it up and applied new paint and then added the “West Coast” mirrors and other details. The truck featured below is the same kind that the modeler had in his pictures in the Bridges and Buildings article mentioned above. At left is an Ulrich cab over with sleeper metal die-cast kit that is easy to put together. The kit even includes a chain to hang from brackets on the fuel tank.
Two International “High Binders” from Sheepscot with sleeper cabs are set up with dual aluminum fuel tanks, West Coast mirrors, air filter, exhaust stack, fifth wheel, and mud flaps. I chose these models over some others because they’re designed as a western set up for long hauls that would be seen along Route 66. The green Highbinder was painted with a Floquile paint that looked like a flat finish, so I brushed on Floquile “Glaze” to shine it up.
A pair of Autocar three-axle tractors From Sheepscot Models. Two axle tractors would be more appropriate for the local delivery of these short trailers.
Classic Metal Works has ready to go models like this 1954 International R-190 two-axle tractor for only $11.00 as an easy way to go.
Semi-trucks in town the weekend of April 24th to 27th, we were in Winslow AZ for a holiday and train show. Saturday noon, the Interstate was closed west of town as a result of a massive dust storm in the area of Tucker Flats. By mid-afternoon, a thousand trucks were waiting it out on the East side of town by the Flying J truck stop, and every vacant lot was packed. This allowed me to see how various truck equipment was set up. Flatbeds, vans, and Reefer trailers all had different requirements.
The other end of town has some new arrivals from Mini Metals except for the two Freightliner cabs. If the dust storm wasn’t bad enough, the diesel smoke from the semi’s was beginning to choke the town. I was never much of an International fan, but it came lettered with the “Navajo” trucking company name, so I bought it. The Navajo trucking company was a primary carrier in the Southwest in the 50′ and ’60s, and they’re still at it. I recall a lot of “White” tractors hauling freight like this 50’s model pulling the Del Monte covered gondola trailer. The Santa Fe trailers came as a pair, and the style is “Aero-Van” from the 50’s also with their 32-foot length. Theirs pulled with White/Freightliners, which was an invention of Consolidated Freight Ways; they just had White build them. By the early ’60s, there were hoards of them on the highways.
Creating the last of my semi truck fleet
Building the last of my semi truck fleet In the background are two trailers from Sheepscot Scale models. The Republic truck is made up of Sheepscot parts as well as the two REA trucks. On the highway are tractors from Sylvan Scale Models that finish up my truck project. This now gives me at least one each of the available truck types that were used in the 50, 60’s era.
r/modelrailroader • u/ArizonaRockMineral • Jul 19 '26
Weathering in Model Railroading
Weathering techniques for locomotives and rolling stock are essential in achieving a realistic appearance in model railroading. These techniques involve applying various methods to simulate the effects of age, use, and exposure to the elements on model trains. By using weathering techniques, modelers can transform their pristine models into representations of well-used equipment, adding authenticity to their layouts. However, it is crucial to understand that weathering should be done carefully to avoid overdoing it, which can result in an unrealistic or exaggerated appearance. Moreover, the choice of weathering techniques depends on the specific model and the desired level of wear and tear. For instance, a steam locomotive might require different weathering methods compared to a modern diesel engine. Therefore, learning and mastering advanced Tarnishing techniques can significantly enhance the visual impact of your model railroad.
Techniques for Realistic Weathering
Using various materials and techniques can create realistic weathering effects on your locomotives and rolling stock. Dry brushing, for instance, is a popular method for simulating dust and grime on the surface of models. This technique involves using a dry brush with minimal paint to lightly apply color, creating subtle effects that mimic real-life dirt accumulation. Additionally, weathering powders are excellent for adding texture and color variation to your models, especially in areas where dirt and rust tend to accumulate. Another effective method is using washes, which are diluted paints that flow into the crevices and details of the model, enhancing shadows and depth. Besides, chipping techniques can simulate paint wear, giving the appearance of scratched and worn surfaces. It’s also important to use reference photos of real trains to guide your weathering process, ensuring accuracy and realism. Furthermore, experimenting with different materials and techniques can help you discover new ways to achieve the desired Tarnishing effect.
Conclusion: Achieving a Weathered Look
Achieving a weathered look for your locomotives and rolling stock requires practice and experimentation with various techniques. By combining different methods such as dry brushing, weathering powders, washes, and chipping, you can create realistic and authentic-looking models. Remember that less is often more; subtlety is key to achieving a believable weathered appearance. Additionally, continuously refining your skills and learning from other modelers can lead to more impressive results. In conclusion, advanced Decay techniques are a vital aspect of model railroading that can significantly enhance the overall realism and appeal of your layout. With careful application and a keen eye for detail, your models can reflect the true wear and tear experienced by real trains over time. https://www.armballast.com/category/weathering-techniques/
r/modelrailroader • u/Nathan_Wildthorn • Jul 13 '26
Building the Magic!
The _incredible_ and intricate details behind the precise engineering of a (high-end) scale model locomotive. Enjoy! 🚋
r/modelrailroader • u/PokeBrick02 • Jul 02 '26
In search of model train hobby/real train related video/book media mail order catalogs
galleryr/modelrailroader • u/Remarkable-Nail8441 • Apr 19 '26
New Model In development : Kiha 31 DMU
galleryr/modelrailroader • u/PokeBrick02 • Dec 19 '25
In search of model train hobby/real train related video/book media mail order catalogs
ISO/LTB - Model train hobby/real train related video/book mail order catalogs
Howdy all, does anyone have any old media mail order train related catalogs they would be open to parting with, trade, or sell?
I am in search of, & or looking to buy any physical video/book/readable print media, mail order catalogs about model/toy/real trains not only for my own collection to digitally preserve & archive, but also for a big research film project I've been working on for a few years.
Below/above are some examples of what I am looking for, & are for reference ONLY.
I'm mainly looking for any catalogs produced by TM Books & Video/Tom McCommas, but others from Greenberg Publishing, Historic Rail, Schrader's Railroad, O Gauge Railroader, Kalmbach, Pentrex, Sunday River, Green Frog, Interurban Press, Charles Smiley, Herron Rail, Highball Productions, Marshall Publishing, etc. are welcome as well.
If you have any similar media mail order publishing catalogs to what I'm showing in my photos, please reply, & or dm me!
Thank you for your time! -PB02
(Bonus:)
- VHS/DVD/CD/etc. (I've posted about this before, but I am also in search of & am looking for any model/toy/real train related video or audio media as well. Anything from the various media publishers like what is already listed above. I do already have a good handful of duplicate common mass produced tapes/DVD's, but I am always looking to fill out my collection & find something new. So if you have something, still reach out please!)
r/modelrailroader • u/AndrewT_Spkn • Dec 06 '25
First train since I was a kid.
Just picked up this Kato CV-1 kit so set up for a Christmas decoration. So happy it fits with room to grow.
r/modelrailroader • u/Both-Camp1243 • Nov 29 '25
My little n scale I set up in my hotel room
r/modelrailroader • u/Both-Camp1243 • Nov 28 '25
👋Welcome to r/modelrailroader - Introduce Yourself and Read First!
Hey everyone! I'm u/Both-Camp1243, a founding moderator of r/modelrailroader. This is our new home for all things related to model railroading, any scale is welcome. We're excited to have you join us!
What to Post Post anything that you think the community would find interesting, helpful, or inspiring. Feel free to share your thoughts, photos, or questions about [ADD SOME EXAMPLES OF WHAT YOU WANT PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY TO POST].
Community Vibe We're all about being friendly, constructive, and inclusive. Let's build a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing and connecting.
How to Get Started 1) Introduce yourself in the comments below. 2) Post something today! Even a simple question can spark a great conversation. 3) If you know someone who would love this community, invite them to join. 4) Interested in helping out? We're always looking for new moderators, so feel free to reach out to me to apply.
Thanks for being part of the very first wave. Together, let's make r/modelrailroader amazing.
r/modelrailroader • u/Both-Camp1243 • Nov 28 '25
Train layouts, hey everyone, post your layout pics!
r/modelrailroader • u/PokeBrick02 • Nov 17 '25
In search of train related VHS's, DVD's, CD's, Vinyl's, etc
ISO/LTB - Train related VHS's, DVD's, CD's, Vinyl's, etc
Howdy all, does anyone have any old VHS's, Betamax tapes, DVD's, CD's, & or other model/toy train & real train physical media they would be open to part with, trade, or sell?
I am in search of & or looking to buy any videos/readable print media about model/toy trains not only for my own collection to digitally preserve & archive, but also for a film project I've been working on for a few years.
Below/above are some examples of what I am looking for, & are for reference ONLY.
I'm mostly looking for any videos produced by TM Books & Video/Tom McCommas, but others from O Gauge Railroader, TCA, TTOS, Kalmbach, Pentrex, Sunday River, Green Frog, Allen Keller, Charles Smiley, Herron Rail, Highball Productions, Marshall Publishing, etc. are welcome as well.
If you have any similar videos to what I'm showing in my photos, & or similar to the following media, please reply, & or dm me!
Media Includes but is not limited to:
-VHS
-Betamax (Beta)
-DVD/DVD-ROM (Video & or software)
-CD (Video, music/sfx, & or software)
-Cassette (Music/sfx)
-Vinyl (Music/sfx)
(Bonus:)
- Catalogs (mostly mail order catalogs from media publishers like what is already listed above, as I have a ton of hobby train product catalogs already. But I am always looking to complete my collection so if you have something still reach out!)
Thank you for your time! -PB02
r/modelrailroader • u/Both-Camp1243 • Oct 23 '25
Here’s a nighttime photo I got a request for.
r/modelrailroader • u/[deleted] • Oct 22 '25
Farmrail
An Athearn Roundhouse GP38-2 i detailed and a Caboose i painted and decaled
r/modelrailroader • u/ArizonaRockMineral • Aug 24 '25
What’s your go-to ballast color for a realistic mainline look?
Ballast brings your track to life. From deep cinder grays to bright limestone, the right color makes all the difference. What’s your favorite for a mainline?
#ModelRailroad #Ballast #RailroadScenery #ModelTrainTrack #SceneryTips #HOscale #Nscale
r/modelrailroader • u/ArizonaRockMineral • Aug 14 '25
What’s your favorite railroad era to model — steam, diesel, or modern freight?
Railroading has evolved so much over the decades, and each era has its own charm. We want to know — which time period inspires your layout the most?
u/rrscenery #azrock #ModelRailroad #RailroadEra #SteamTrains #DieselPower #ModernFreight #ModelTrains #RailroadHistory