Peter's Model Railroading | My Library | Railroad Model Craftsman 2008-11
Articles Listing

Modeling the Rutland's 70-tonner in HO Scale

The author used a Bachmann GE 70-tonner for this project. The article covers detailing and painting the engine, and installing DCC and sound. One prototype photo and a parts list are also included.

The LaPointe Depot

This article describes how the author scratchbuilt this depot, which has the same color scheme as the other depots on his layout. Includes a side bar on how to make the fish scale shingles used for the structure's roof. Scale drawings and many construction photos are also included.

Modeling California's Sugar Beet Industry

The history and current state of the sugar beet industry is discussed in this article. Also included are scale drawings of a beet dump and loader located along the SP RR in San Ardo, CA. This article also describes the special beet gondolas used to transport the cargo. The article wraps up with information about how to model the structures, the cars, and the beets.

The Bank on the Corner

Modeled after a real bank on a street corner, this unique structure is sure to draw attention with its patina roof dome.

Building a Clinchfield PS-3 Hopper

The author built these cars using Atlas Trainman AAR 70-ton hoppers. He has found that to be the most economical method to build a large fleet of these cars. Includes prototype and model photos, as well as a parts list.

Out of the Fringes

Bob discusses what could be considered the fringes of our model railroading hobby.

Acres in Inches

Using a thin piece of styrofoam, this article describes how to model what appears to be a deep, dark forest in just around an inch of depth. From the photos it looks to be very effective.

Dual-magnet Uncoupling

The author found that using small, cylindrical rare-earth magnets, he was able to achieve more reliable uncoupling using the Kadee couplers. The concept has been tested in several scales.

Modeling the M&StL Through Mason City Part I

The author is getting ready to model the town of Mason City, Iowa in as close of a match as possible. This installment covers the research he did, how he decided to model just one town, the industries in the area, and the depot. It includes a lot of prototype photos.