Peter's Model Railroading | My Library | Model Railroader 2005-01
Articles Listing

A Fistful of Details

Adding people, business marketing signs, street signs, backyard details, and products of industry.

Branch Line for the Turtle Creek Central Part 1

In 2002 Model Railroader ran a series of articles building a 4x8 foot layout. This series of articles will add a 2' x 6' extension to that layout. However, the article includes diagrams of how just using this branch line module only, one could have operations.This installment covers the trackplan, the benchwork construction, and using foam to build the scenery foundation.

How to Model a Stucco Depot

Includes prototype and model photos of the Santa Fe Ry station in Lamy, New Mexico. Article covers how the author built the model from scratch, includes scale drawings, and includes a side bar on how he developed his approach to modeling stucco.

Right from the Start

The author described how he used the various modeling and design books out there to build his own 16 by 27 foot layout. He didn't start out with that size, though. Includes photos and a track plan of his layout, which is set between 1970 and 1990 in St. Louis County, Missouri.

Different Time Different Look

The author takes a look at what turn-of-the-century modeling might involve (1900, that is).

Build an Upgraded SD40-2

The author modified and custom-painted this engine for the Kalmbach employee club layout. Topics includes cab details, body preparations, spray painting, applying lettering, pilot details, assembly, and weathering with powdered pastels. Includes a parts list.

Power Districts For Digital Command Control

This is an extensive look at why we need power districts, and how to design and construct them. Includes information about how to build small control panels to allow for shutting down of individual power districts for maintenance and debugging.

Keeping Track of History

The 8 by 25 foot permanent display of an O-scale layout in the Los Altos History Museum helps visitors to view the past of the local area. Includes a track plan and many photos.

10 Steps to Choosing a DCC System

This column covers ten things to consider before buying your DCC system.