tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90287152705685091002024-03-13T15:05:51.179-04:00The Model Railroad LudditeThe Model Railroad Luddite explores low-cost and no-cost ideas for simple, non-techy model railroading.Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.comBlogger180125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-88154929946237154522022-03-08T14:08:00.010-05:002022-03-08T14:29:10.807-05:00Gondola loads<p> Here are some easy ways to load up your gondolas.</p><p><b>1. Dirty up the empties </b>- Empty model gons have two problems: they are too light, and too clean. We can add some weight by placing a flat steel weight salvaged from a boxcar right on the bottom. The weight from a 40' box car fits nicely in a 40' gon, as seen below. Next, we will dirty it up so it is not so obvious what we have done. Gons always have some debris in the bottom. Gather some workbench and floor sweepings, sift them through a colander or screen to eliminate the big chunks. Paint the bottom of the gon (or the steel weight, in this case) with thinned white glue and sprinkle a bit of detritus around. A little goes a long way!</p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjD20tzbaY3LuFMkBgLD8jo4mQqDZEmwMGx6WFWwuKTy4qcwHghNMQDhsyakZtRMuQ5OCJHgO4K24V8yNfFVTroPRlmw741MNKrpwpRq9PrHNVCpKS5kmV65pfTB6Po9RENMn-5FQT7oYuHKTKSYQ-KtLWn8a5RGflu3miJRt2f0QFPATwsq3ENJOiW=s1000" style="font-weight: bold; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="711" data-original-width="1000" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjD20tzbaY3LuFMkBgLD8jo4mQqDZEmwMGx6WFWwuKTy4qcwHghNMQDhsyakZtRMuQ5OCJHgO4K24V8yNfFVTroPRlmw741MNKrpwpRq9PrHNVCpKS5kmV65pfTB6Po9RENMn-5FQT7oYuHKTKSYQ-KtLWn8a5RGflu3miJRt2f0QFPATwsq3ENJOiW=s320" width="320" /></a><br />click to enlarge</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>2. A real scrap iron load: </b>I noticed from rust flaking off the inside of the rear bumper on my truck. I gathered the pieces and broke them up smaller with a hammer. Loaded them in the gondola and dripped some thinned white glue over them to secure them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiL6hJ_W_w_Cr05AMyKOrnI7yUKqnZ0KVB1P-Y8Q6FjWsNQa2XeJCgNF3m9nWMk6eIgnRkB-EwVu07Ap1djlfr3SX6FO9DoD1sxQ5j0zKSQVgS1AyxW9YIn0xZ7BK-3q194kw3ifce7R07idKkJx0qvw3PGoZ72D-tSilo9-i3OmS8jzeT5g2Vv4TY4=s1000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1000" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiL6hJ_W_w_Cr05AMyKOrnI7yUKqnZ0KVB1P-Y8Q6FjWsNQa2XeJCgNF3m9nWMk6eIgnRkB-EwVu07Ap1djlfr3SX6FO9DoD1sxQ5j0zKSQVgS1AyxW9YIn0xZ7BK-3q194kw3ifce7R07idKkJx0qvw3PGoZ72D-tSilo9-i3OmS8jzeT5g2Vv4TY4=s320" width="320" /></a><br />click to enlarge</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>3. Pipes or rebar:</b> I saw a local freight go by with a load of rebar recently, so I wanted to create something similar. I had a box of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Western-Steel-Wire-16-Insulation/dp/B086JNKBQR/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1LKQ95DJON3YE&keywords=insulation+support+wire&qid=1646766799&sprefix=insulation+support+wires%2Caps%2C6595&sr=8-3">insulation support wires</a> which I cut up to make a load. You can paint them yellow or green to simulated epoxy-coated rebar. These support wires some with a anti-rust oily coating so they need to be washed in soapy water before painting. These get heavy real quick, so I just put one layer on top of some stripwood spacers. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhu8LiWOvmfHUzgTFZkQPPTUJao9NYNntSv3kf5iBqztG0UxwaZY8amWZbGSqZbF72X_B6aeKGm4vEzwzaw9aZnAW-new6tHv9ljKyIcQ0uBhpLp--kNtAYEtdN7WFZD8BP11vOeOChogryobxCVdJUIksspuo4y5M9HjOuNCFfLzxfWHiwnrb_-pIB=s1000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="663" data-original-width="1000" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhu8LiWOvmfHUzgTFZkQPPTUJao9NYNntSv3kf5iBqztG0UxwaZY8amWZbGSqZbF72X_B6aeKGm4vEzwzaw9aZnAW-new6tHv9ljKyIcQ0uBhpLp--kNtAYEtdN7WFZD8BP11vOeOChogryobxCVdJUIksspuo4y5M9HjOuNCFfLzxfWHiwnrb_-pIB=s320" width="320" /></a><br />click to enlarge</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>4. Rails being scrapped: </b>This one was fun. Jointed rail used to come in 39' lengths to fit in 40' gondolas. I had some nasty old brass track from my first layout, and used it to make a load of old rail being scrapped. Just strip off the ties, and paint the rails brown. Don't worry about keeping them straight! Just pile them in with a few blobs of clear RTV silicone sealant here and there to keep them in place.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5XshM8AK29bdVcfEhHy5xFaxl3D7CNVIhuHUVmiN3IvxLIZJKBhIjJg1gv1Jsc28O7ig_gB8ObJPcxkYQNKkWcO-huDt1marm0bYWaTJujMGGMbXWT-dobs5WQHkHl1H5P4rRtPCr5cfP6DKQQhXVoc7wJED5uMu9poWH9EzpNnDoID8_UZF4mJRo=s1000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="1000" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5XshM8AK29bdVcfEhHy5xFaxl3D7CNVIhuHUVmiN3IvxLIZJKBhIjJg1gv1Jsc28O7ig_gB8ObJPcxkYQNKkWcO-huDt1marm0bYWaTJujMGGMbXWT-dobs5WQHkHl1H5P4rRtPCr5cfP6DKQQhXVoc7wJED5uMu9poWH9EzpNnDoID8_UZF4mJRo=s320" width="320" /></a><br />click to enlarge</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>5. Sheet metal coils: </b>This is a little more involved. These are rolls of new sheet metal being delivered. The rolls are plastic spacers which came with a TV wall mount kit (you can also get them separately). Spray paint them aluminum color, and mount in cradles made of stripwood.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhY1cKqATbQfDDwk18tR9MI0LP0U1xd1YDcZjx5zK-u4j0K9kh3uWJxcg3xJeQhRssQOlEoyMbiasrrnOXm9ZpUuhwzSU0PnZT3uZ5DJtzXcM2Ifx6M3femeMOaNDMUixhXDiQD5P7m6lDi2TpWhnzLStzSivtzmfK0ywxHJJwwG_wXqIjZwuFrvLWy=s1000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="1000" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhY1cKqATbQfDDwk18tR9MI0LP0U1xd1YDcZjx5zK-u4j0K9kh3uWJxcg3xJeQhRssQOlEoyMbiasrrnOXm9ZpUuhwzSU0PnZT3uZ5DJtzXcM2Ifx6M3femeMOaNDMUixhXDiQD5P7m6lDi2TpWhnzLStzSivtzmfK0ywxHJJwwG_wXqIjZwuFrvLWy=s320" width="320" /></a><br />click to enlarge</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-86001649592503550142022-02-12T11:52:00.004-05:002022-02-22T12:55:22.232-05:00Replacement brake wheels<p><span style="font-family: georgia;"> Here is an economical replacement for missing brake wheels: 8mm metal dress snaps.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-pBOTNZLNUal_dlzQ4VbOGyewwEfNdQZmQzReOvkpZJ0MNvu1c2IEECOFsUfxiSJVqZBwfELZta5urA0bOq8JZaj-cjO6h7L-2s-P_WTf7_NmXozPQc9wRiy5j5Fe700znpe3iSOCv1nS8RtZ5SAajkn4VXx4ZdSh5Ofs_SduchAh0bX1aCtXlJEv=s612" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="612" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-pBOTNZLNUal_dlzQ4VbOGyewwEfNdQZmQzReOvkpZJ0MNvu1c2IEECOFsUfxiSJVqZBwfELZta5urA0bOq8JZaj-cjO6h7L-2s-P_WTf7_NmXozPQc9wRiy5j5Fe700znpe3iSOCv1nS8RtZ5SAajkn4VXx4ZdSh5Ofs_SduchAh0bX1aCtXlJEv=s320" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">These are found in the sewing department of many stores such as Walmart or Amazon. I found a card of 24 for $6.99 on Amazon. They come in 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, and 10mm. I use 8mm for HO scale.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The measurement specification is for the (unused) larger, female half. Buying the 8mm size will provide a 8mm female (unused) and a 6mm male (which is about the right size).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhURkahqHNOcBVqVcMwFRYoHbn9IFvdOo8jPUjGvmzBFFytpHachiyDwSG23IAz34B8zAudNIRnGnKA0Osj1zk5B5iZfwzTXI63WZDjammjwHkbsv9iIoI1sXzxPTBAp9mYVu9b8hLEYwjVGU8yOpGr51bu7R5dMnxWySSkRf1zfiToVSJdgXPCxmaC=s812" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="812" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhURkahqHNOcBVqVcMwFRYoHbn9IFvdOo8jPUjGvmzBFFytpHachiyDwSG23IAz34B8zAudNIRnGnKA0Osj1zk5B5iZfwzTXI63WZDjammjwHkbsv9iIoI1sXzxPTBAp9mYVu9b8hLEYwjVGU8yOpGr51bu7R5dMnxWySSkRf1zfiToVSJdgXPCxmaC=s320" width="315" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Just separate the two halves of the snap. Discard the female half. Enlarge the hole in the freight car if necessary. Put a drop of Krazy Glue in the hole, then press the male half of the snap into the hole.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p><br /></p>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-54915348767070509572022-01-10T16:36:00.002-05:002022-01-10T16:36:28.759-05:00Easy window air conditioners<p> Need some easy HO scale window air conditioners? Cut the head off a zip tie, paint it white, filling the opening with paint. When it dries, add some silver paint to the hole area to simulate the finned condenser. Stick it on your window and you’re ready for summer!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKyYGrY_uCjd00hESRJE0IK4jsLGCaEqpm9avK1EmWLgSbPoythXvPcqn4Z75cYSjYFAez_i9D-fJ08L4JtRfokiuJggcOgqMpwEtg2U8CTo7hT3odBHZ7sG2A5aNGt4kJqotjxQdG-YpskcBufeYtWRZFQXXyD18Ai9YdPoIdIejQwt9Q2LhxSMOz=s922" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="922" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKyYGrY_uCjd00hESRJE0IK4jsLGCaEqpm9avK1EmWLgSbPoythXvPcqn4Z75cYSjYFAez_i9D-fJ08L4JtRfokiuJggcOgqMpwEtg2U8CTo7hT3odBHZ7sG2A5aNGt4kJqotjxQdG-YpskcBufeYtWRZFQXXyD18Ai9YdPoIdIejQwt9Q2LhxSMOz=s320" width="278" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0us_IX6HRwjEFT10D6_lYOjv8ws7CDpr2TBASpUnPz0MagJ2ubur0joN2WsVWWDihEjE84Ia8wVe8tX20SU2FB7URjXJCfa84nLWr-FMuooGvvWvtmYkclNFxzZbYzpEIvsPS9K7h9rbDOvVAPgAILxdfORwjSvYgdyEyfkLtMKvfA28q4mLqI641=s958" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0us_IX6HRwjEFT10D6_lYOjv8ws7CDpr2TBASpUnPz0MagJ2ubur0joN2WsVWWDihEjE84Ia8wVe8tX20SU2FB7URjXJCfa84nLWr-FMuooGvvWvtmYkclNFxzZbYzpEIvsPS9K7h9rbDOvVAPgAILxdfORwjSvYgdyEyfkLtMKvfA28q4mLqI641=s320" width="267" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-56059934771206331692020-11-11T19:53:00.005-05:002020-11-11T19:55:19.371-05:00Mini Wheel Pasta Fans<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">American Chop Suey was the original plan. But the grocery store was out of elbow macaroni, so I looked for something close to substitute, and chose these little mini-wheel pastas. They looked like they might have some model railroad potential as gears or big HVAC fan units. Two mini-wheels were spray painted silver. An 8-nub Lego block was turned upside-down, with a piece of styrene to cover the open Lego bottom (now the top). The Lego block was spray painted HVAC green. The mini-wheels were glued on top. Placed on top of a building, the Lego nubs space the HVAC unit up off the roof a bit. Another bit of styrene on the side suggests an electrical disconnect box.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-82rTF3ETJak/X6yHztuZ8tI/AAAAAAAAKWA/xLVz4ZZ2ZiYPUbYg6F5Jll5va4GOm8vGACLcBGAsYHQ/s648/DSCN2541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-82rTF3ETJak/X6yHztuZ8tI/AAAAAAAAKWA/xLVz4ZZ2ZiYPUbYg6F5Jll5va4GOm8vGACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSCN2541.jpg" /></a><br />Mini Wheel pasta</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xi-HnMw7zQ4/X6yHzB2CkXI/AAAAAAAAKV4/-FRgs7RCpgkhKT3OMAzJcp4VhS2xSJ-OwCLcBGAsYHQ/s800/DSCN2543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xi-HnMw7zQ4/X6yHzB2CkXI/AAAAAAAAKV4/-FRgs7RCpgkhKT3OMAzJcp4VhS2xSJ-OwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSCN2543.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />All the ingredients.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zkjDSKVgkQ/X6yHzRvM-FI/AAAAAAAAKV8/9P7c9UdKSBQ051TXY148B6Ydta7fR3PVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1000/DSCN2546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zkjDSKVgkQ/X6yHzRvM-FI/AAAAAAAAKV8/9P7c9UdKSBQ051TXY148B6Ydta7fR3PVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSCN2546.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />Finished HVAC unit.</div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p></p>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-44881392714337169672020-07-29T19:39:00.002-04:002020-07-29T19:39:52.221-04:00Scouring Pad Hedges<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">These rectangular scouring pads make nice hedges to go alongside your structures. Measure, cut, glue in place. Makes the structures look like they belong there, instead of just being plopped in place.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-50446355569618220222020-07-08T12:48:00.001-04:002020-07-08T13:37:13.783-04:00Architectural Vehicles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdSaVPOEkXA/XwX-nKhEAlI/AAAAAAAAJ24/FZKe_E2rrjAqHQZX0TLlKcgLgBxulq8gwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1600" height="193" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdSaVPOEkXA/XwX-nKhEAlI/AAAAAAAAJ24/FZKe_E2rrjAqHQZX0TLlKcgLgBxulq8gwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/title.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M83QbmmLIDw/XwYAymZDH2I/AAAAAAAAJ3M/vKb4LB8zcDk2TSkPkyX1th8bg0xfB2iYQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSCN2251%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="1600" height="181" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M83QbmmLIDw/XwYAymZDH2I/AAAAAAAAJ3M/vKb4LB8zcDk2TSkPkyX1th8bg0xfB2iYQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSCN2251%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Architectural vehicles on an HO layout</i></div>
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<br />
Here is how to populate your layout with lots of vehicles for a fraction of the cost of "real" HO vehicles. On eBay, look for <b>"Architectural Vehicles".</b> <a href="https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=architectural%20model%20vehicles&_sacat=0&LH_TitleDesc=0&_osacat=0&_odkw=1%3A100%20vehicles&fbclid=IwAR1KRDaL0cwEyxvryRTzUJlpKipuKzLC02WBxuCyj9zlc8Vfu_Vk1xYaS0U" target="_blank">This search</a> should get you there. The secret: these were never intended for model railroads at all. They are intended for architectural models, where architects have to fill up parking lots and street scenes with lots of generic vehicles to show clients.<br />
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The two primary architectural scales are <b>1:100</b> (good for HO) and <b>1:200</b> (good for N).<br />
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Take the scale designations with a big grain of salt. Here is an alleged 1:100 vehicle. I put my scale ruler on it, which says it is 14 feet long in HO. Then I went outside and measured my <b>actual</b> <i>Kia Optima, </i>a mid-size vehicle: 14 feet 8 inches.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1gyWMBfNCI/XwX9zwa04XI/AAAAAAAAJ2o/wwMGKLd2OkA_RIIHj4TmEUlpfRnKdkrMwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/kia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1354" data-original-width="1600" height="270" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1gyWMBfNCI/XwX9zwa04XI/AAAAAAAAJ2o/wwMGKLd2OkA_RIIHj4TmEUlpfRnKdkrMwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/kia.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>14 feet long</i></div>
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These are NOT highly detailed models. They consist of three pieces: a black chassis/wheelset (wheels are molded in place, and do not turn), a clear window insert, and a body. You can snap them apart easily if you wish to paint the body a different color. You can improve their looks by painting the headlights and taillights, and a license plate.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdWjc_BU7aI/XwX97GPYRCI/AAAAAAAAJ2s/1i3rGLrS9l0Gebv_TQfPOTYQY18CxHwLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/3pcs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdWjc_BU7aI/XwX97GPYRCI/AAAAAAAAJ2s/1i3rGLrS9l0Gebv_TQfPOTYQY18CxHwLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/3pcs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>three pieces</i></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9hTQzSWlwbI/XwYAAZTuOXI/AAAAAAAAJ3E/Hu5GfTznfjAVFeYKRzY2qOx8Nifpho7LwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/107660480_10157097789420426_6480790132104969013_n-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="201" data-original-width="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9hTQzSWlwbI/XwYAAZTuOXI/AAAAAAAAJ3E/Hu5GfTznfjAVFeYKRzY2qOx8Nifpho7LwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/107660480_10157097789420426_6480790132104969013_n-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>homemade taxis</i></div>
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<br />
All train stations need taxis. I made some by painting some cars yellow, adding a bit of styrene to the roof for a TAXI sign, and then adding a black stripe with a mini brush.<br />
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<b>Cheap, but slow </b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HmjQtqGmh04/XwYEACrqwiI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/fhm-Wlssi1QfI-DQaIRdjw934gAj1DpSwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cars3.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="244" data-original-width="367" height="211" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HmjQtqGmh04/XwYEACrqwiI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/fhm-Wlssi1QfI-DQaIRdjw934gAj1DpSwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/cars3.tiff" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>typical eBay listing</i></div>
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The bigger the lot, the cheaper they are! Look for the 25 or 50 packs. You can probably get 50 vehicles for less than $20. These are mailed direct from China. It takes about 3 weeks to arrive in the USA.<br />
<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-55643712411170579122020-03-29T19:30:00.000-04:002020-03-29T19:56:17.615-04:00Simple Car Cards & Waybills<br />
Here is a simple, inexpensive car card and waybill system for freight car routing; which minimizes handling and makes routing obvious for old forgetful operators like me, and for new operators on your layout.<br />
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<b>Materials:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Baseball card toploader sleeves. Toploader means the opening is on the shorter side. (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ultra-Pro-Toploaders-Collectible-toploaders/dp/B076V4V2QQ/ref=sr_1_13?dchild=1&keywords=baseball+card+sleeve&qid=1585525238&sr=8-13" target="_blank">Amazon</a>) </li>
<li>Car cards, cardstock cut to baseball card size (3 1/2” x 2 5/8”)</li>
<li>Waybills (cut from 3x5 index cards)</li>
<li>Channel: vinyl outside-corner molding used for bathroom tile, UPC 70673 85883 (<a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/852-1-2-in-x-3-4-in-x-8-ft-PVC-Composite-White-Outside-Corner-Moulding-0085208011/100540903" target="_blank">Home Depot</a>)</li>
<li>Elastic hair bands </li>
</ul>
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<b>Preparation</b><br />
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Create a list of standard abbreviations to include all possible freight car destinations on your layout. Use the same abbreviations consistently. I use three-letter abbreviations. Here is the list of abbreviations on my layout.<br />
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<pre>BOL Bolton Railcar Maintenance Facility
COM Commissary
CPR Chronicle Printing, Marias
CSH Cascade Section House
DAS Davis Passenger Station
DAV Davis Classification Yard
EEE EEE Feed and Supply, Marias
FRT Freight House and Team Track
GCF Glen Cove Fuels, Glen Cove
GCM Glen Cove Signal Maintenance Yard
KEL Kenton Electric Fabricators, Kenton
KEN Kenton Yard
KFF Kenton Freight Forwarders
LMS Leslie Marine Services, Marias
MMT Marias Machining & Tool, Marias
NPO North Portal Interchange
PAM Pamola siding
PSH Pamola Section House
PTC Precision Tooling Corporation, Marias
QUI Quinn Intermodal Yard
SPO South Portal Interchange
</pre>
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Install a channel all along the edge of the layout to hold the sleeves. It is helpful to label the destinations on the channel itself. The channel comes in 8 foot lengths, so it easy to just mount channel everywhere all along the edge of your layout. The channel has a flange which allows you to tack it in place from below, so no nails will be visible. Or you can just run a bead of adhesive on it and glue it in place.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q06oyi_nn5A/XoEv2Xs8KfI/AAAAAAAAImk/w0DnGF5vnbsvoTsOm0yPS2XtJSweFWSRACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="878" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q06oyi_nn5A/XoEv2Xs8KfI/AAAAAAAAImk/w0DnGF5vnbsvoTsOm0yPS2XtJSweFWSRACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/1a.jpg" width="291" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">channel material: vinyl outside-corner tile molding</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mquGzMHGlWY/XoEv_lvXRBI/AAAAAAAAImo/Lstiruqd76UqpEbF03rRl4WGqUcRFKPTACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mquGzMHGlWY/XoEv_lvXRBI/AAAAAAAAImo/Lstiruqd76UqpEbF03rRl4WGqUcRFKPTACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/1b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">car card/waybill rests in channel</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Each freight car gets a Car Card. These are cut to baseball card size and show the reporting marks, car type, and destination for the car when empty. The Car Card is inserted into a baseball card sleeve,<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c56Vf-rMsl4/XoEwLI37RdI/AAAAAAAAImw/-jtfFJcpthwlwCM56a35TQo6eAx8CN7-wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="500" height="248" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c56Vf-rMsl4/XoEwLI37RdI/AAAAAAAAImw/-jtfFJcpthwlwCM56a35TQo6eAx8CN7-wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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car card in sleeve</div>
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Each sleeve/Car Card will always stay with its associated car.<br />
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When on the layout, the sleeve rests in the channel in front of the car.<br />
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When in transit, like the prototype, the waybills go along for the ride. A recycled margarine tub next to the power pack works well.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MQOlX5gv_CU/XoEwRR0paFI/AAAAAAAAIm4/NBQnZ9dKtdk1KVA16tS9RgMSpvYBYp2uwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="800" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MQOlX5gv_CU/XoEwRR0paFI/AAAAAAAAIm4/NBQnZ9dKtdk1KVA16tS9RgMSpvYBYp2uwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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When off the layout, keep car and sleeve together by using an elastic hair band. These are soft and won’t mar your cars, and they won't dry out like rubber bands.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rS4LcMy4Y4E/XoEwcT-ak-I/AAAAAAAAIm8/r7brAGwlEyYxWswCKyQLISRtR2Mnk3eaQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="800" height="184" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rS4LcMy4Y4E/XoEwcT-ak-I/AAAAAAAAIm8/r7brAGwlEyYxWswCKyQLISRtR2Mnk3eaQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Waybills</b><br />
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Waybills are half-size cards which have a destination written on both front and back. The destination abbreviation is written in big red letters for easy viewing, so you need not pick up a card to read the destination. The waybill is inserted in the lower half of the sleeve so it is visible in front of the Car Card. With only two destinations written on the waybill, it is a 2-cycle waybill. You can also write the load information on the waybill if you wish.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eqyZs0m1TSI/XoEwiMYZPGI/AAAAAAAAInE/RSUYO0NTbw06t7tdgcWjt-4HlfuoaAgyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="500" height="248" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eqyZs0m1TSI/XoEwiMYZPGI/AAAAAAAAInE/RSUYO0NTbw06t7tdgcWjt-4HlfuoaAgyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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waybill inserted</div>
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<b>Operation</b><br />
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There is no car “storage” on my layout. Every car on the rails is in the process of going somewhere else. (The cars go in/out interchange tracks to/from a rolling storage rack, which represents all destinations beyond the layout). The abbreviation shows where the car is going NEXT. When setting out a car at a destination, the operator places the sleeve in the channel where it will remain.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--d6d37U7aDM/XoEwqt-vfoI/AAAAAAAAInI/sQj1rNJnUIg3mCRvLHCCkBo0I7MwTcHMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="800" height="268" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--d6d37U7aDM/XoEwqt-vfoI/AAAAAAAAInI/sQj1rNJnUIg3mCRvLHCCkBo0I7MwTcHMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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car at destination</div>
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At the end of a session, all the cars are hopefully at their destination for the day. After a certain time has elapsed (typically, in between sessions), it is time to advance the waybills to prepare the cars for their next move. In each sleeve, turn the waybill over so the next location is showing. Now replace the sleeve in the channel, but place it standing <b>UP</b> to indicate the car is ready to be picked <b>UP</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUqKvD6mQfs/XoEwyP1dQSI/AAAAAAAAInU/SzhETNl3TWkVym-G03leggeenT7TphcVACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="800" height="268" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUqKvD6mQfs/XoEwyP1dQSI/AAAAAAAAInU/SzhETNl3TWkVym-G03leggeenT7TphcVACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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car ready for pickUP</div>
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To indicate an empty, just place the waybill BEHIND the car card so it cannot be seen, which reveals the empty routing instructions written on the lower half of the car card.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWjFFAjVhQ4/XoEw4DnEbII/AAAAAAAAInY/qWGv4Q6rDy8gDkoAKpvqliuCEuuStBBIQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" height="252" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWjFFAjVhQ4/XoEw4DnEbII/AAAAAAAAInY/qWGv4Q6rDy8gDkoAKpvqliuCEuuStBBIQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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no waybill indicates empty car</div>
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Now when the train comes by, it is obvious to the operator which cars have recently been set out (the sleeves are horizontal, and waybill abbreviation matches the car’s current location); and which are ready to be picked <b>UP</b> (the sleeve is standing <b>UP</b>, and the waybill abbreviation shows a new destination).<br />
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This makes it easy to check that you delivered all your cars during the session. If you see any sleeves still standing UP, you still have work to do!<br />
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<b>Making up trains</b><br />
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A length of channel can be mounted on the top of the layout in front of a sorting track, so the yard operator can clearly see which car is going where, and rearrange/block them in an efficient order as a train is made up. I just set the <i>cards </i>in correct order first, then shuffle the<i> cars</i> until they line up with the cards.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmMfyBOYjhU/XoExDVtpn3I/AAAAAAAAIng/L4tDuFFzn04uHIfmSYvzMp0op8jes-H2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="800" height="195" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmMfyBOYjhU/XoExDVtpn3I/AAAAAAAAIng/L4tDuFFzn04uHIfmSYvzMp0op8jes-H2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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making up a train</div>
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<b>Multiple tracks</b><br />
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Multiple channels can be mounted in front of multiple tracks, so the sleeves are arranged in the same pattern as the cars.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11bPZ8tjUMw/XoExOv7juaI/AAAAAAAAIno/RKjRsI68J6wVhVmcEDhsbkoUH2m_jTYegCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="472" data-original-width="800" height="188" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11bPZ8tjUMw/XoExOv7juaI/AAAAAAAAIno/RKjRsI68J6wVhVmcEDhsbkoUH2m_jTYegCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-45833458472942558542020-03-29T11:17:00.002-04:002020-07-29T15:03:05.993-04:00How complete is your railroad?<div>
HOW COMPLETE IS YOUR RAILROAD?</div>
<div>
by Rick Mills</div>
<div>
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<div>
It is said that a model railroad is never finished, and sometimes we get discouraged at a perceived lack of progress. Measuring progress can be very elusive and subjective. </div>
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<div>
Here is a little tool to estimate the level of completion of your railroad. </div>
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<div>
There are ten categories. Rate each category from 0 (nothing done) to 10 (complete). Then add up the scores to find the percentage of completion for the entire railroad. </div>
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<div>
<table border=1>
<tr>
<th>Category</th>
<th>Possible</th>
<th>My score</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Backdrop</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lighting</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Benchwork</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Trackwork</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Track wiring & control</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Scenery</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Locomotives</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rolling stock</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Structures</td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Small details (figures, signs, etc). </td>
<td align=center>10</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>Total</th>
<td align=center>100</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</table>
<P>
<div>
This gives you a very rough estimate - since no attempt is made to weight the amount of effort required to complete each category. However, it can be used as a personal tracking and goal-setting tool. Say you are at 60% and wish to complete it in four years. You can strive to increase your completion by 10% per year by chipping away at the various categories that number less than 10. Perhaps make a New Year's resolution to take a "measurement" every January 1!</div>
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<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /></div>
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Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-3226114340602596442020-03-20T10:34:00.001-04:002020-03-20T10:35:29.421-04:00Cemetery<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What to do with that little piece of leftover layout? A cemetery can fit any size space. Adjacent to a church is a logical place. Gravestones are bits of styrene painted various shades of grey (good use for bread bag closure tabs). Crosses can be cut from white plastic canvas material (I use 7 mesh, which is 7 squares per inch).</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sJgM1-YAXo0/XnTUXG4CG8I/AAAAAAAAIfg/dDurwif9MPk90Yz9i_HcP6zDh4ociX9HQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cem1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sJgM1-YAXo0/XnTUXG4CG8I/AAAAAAAAIfg/dDurwif9MPk90Yz9i_HcP6zDh4ociX9HQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/cem1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-84527650526368824782020-03-19T14:05:00.002-04:002022-09-11T12:39:25.965-04:00Weed Sprayer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-86k8DGAZYLw/XnOwrL9abHI/AAAAAAAAIdk/GE0Fz_2svZs0Xb1khmrRgWaT3sxafXLyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ws1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="800" height="291" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-86k8DGAZYLw/XnOwrL9abHI/AAAAAAAAIdk/GE0Fz_2svZs0Xb1khmrRgWaT3sxafXLyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ws1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is an easy-to-make weed sprayer for your M.o.W. crew.<br />
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<li>Materials needed:</li>
<li>Life-Like track cleaner car</li>
<li>Matchbox Rainmaker irrigation tractor</li>
<li>Two small brad nails</li>
<li>Decals: Microscale <a href="http://www.microscale.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=87-1012&Store_Code=MD&search=87-1012&offset=&filter_cat=&PowerSearch_Begin_Only=&sort=&range_low=&range_high=" target="_blank">87-1012</a></li>
<li>White (Elmer's) Glue</li>
<li>BB shot</li>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZpgCS6ipa0/XnOw0Td4EAI/AAAAAAAAIdo/oH1o93vOwS4QekWy3z4JTwxfs1b7meuTwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ws2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="274" data-original-width="530" height="165" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZpgCS6ipa0/XnOw0Td4EAI/AAAAAAAAIdo/oH1o93vOwS4QekWy3z4JTwxfs1b7meuTwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ws2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Obtain a Life-Like track cleaner car. These are readily available on eBay (try <a href="https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=life+like+track+cleaner+car&_sacat=0" target="_blank">this search</a>) or swap meets. Remove the cleaning pad from the bottom, and the sidewalls on either side of the tank. Put a squirt of white glue into the tank, and add BB shot to get the weight up to spec (4 oz.) Then another squirt of glue, and tip the car back and forth so all the BB shot is glued in place and won't roll around. Paint as desired. Remove the caboose section temporarily to add window glazing if desired. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RD6-M5KCcsQ/XnOyGAFdqII/AAAAAAAAId0/SQB5Mj_1mGEbAvfmdLu-YeJzyd513AGhgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ws3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RD6-M5KCcsQ/XnOyGAFdqII/AAAAAAAAId0/SQB5Mj_1mGEbAvfmdLu-YeJzyd513AGhgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ws3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Obtain a Matchbox Rainmaker irrigation tractor (try <a href="https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=matchbox+rainmaker&_sacat=0&LH_TitleDesc=0&_osacat=0&_odkw=life+like+track+cleaner+car" target="_blank">this search</a>). Remove the two spray arms.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GonkohlWRaM/XnOygwWt0eI/AAAAAAAAId8/16a3o85JBfw3XncpI0GI-bsffoFGuoCpACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ws4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="800" height="254" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GonkohlWRaM/XnOygwWt0eI/AAAAAAAAId8/16a3o85JBfw3XncpI0GI-bsffoFGuoCpACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ws4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Drill two small holes through the deck of the car for the hinge pins, which are two small brad nails inserted up through the bottom and glued in place. Add a short piece of wire in the first stake pocket to act as a retainer to hold the spray arms closed which car is in transit. Slide the spray arms into place, and that is all!</div>
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"Weed Spray" decal can be found in Microscale set <a href="http://www.microscale.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=87-1012&Store_Code=MD&search=87-1012&offset=&filter_cat=&PowerSearch_Begin_Only=&sort=&range_low=&range_high=" target="_blank">87-1012</a>.</div>
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Push the weed spray car along your track tank-end first, so the operator (in the cupola) can see to operate the spray arms, and retract them from obstructions.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crj5e-VXc5g/XnO0N1shhyI/AAAAAAAAIeI/_xiBvTPRHc4ngAOI8TJrcRxDJaqr3kRcgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ws5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="671" height="237" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crj5e-VXc5g/XnO0N1shhyI/AAAAAAAAIeI/_xiBvTPRHc4ngAOI8TJrcRxDJaqr3kRcgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ws5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>spray arms in closed position</i></div>
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<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-82987344179815699722020-02-18T15:10:00.000-05:002020-02-18T15:10:24.711-05:00Blue Flag Protection for your layout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PavrgCRN7Gw/XkxEdiG_B2I/AAAAAAAAIMw/VD4pRVDgXf4d3vU9nDZ2h2gwQuHcfnkxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/blueflag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1017" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PavrgCRN7Gw/XkxEdiG_B2I/AAAAAAAAIMw/VD4pRVDgXf4d3vU9nDZ2h2gwQuHcfnkxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/blueflag.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
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If you use panel switches to control blocks of track, this is a familiar problem. You come to the train room, turn on your power pack, and - surprise! A locomotive starts off down the layout unexpectedly, because you left a block switch engaged last time around. This can be a big hazard, as the locomotive can head off for big trouble before you can react to stop it.</div>
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Here is my solution: a modified form of “blue flag protection”. It consists of a vitamin pill bottle, a toggle switch, a blue LED, a 1K resistor, and a 9 volt battery. The switch just turns the LED on, that is all.</div>
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The concept is that the lit LED indicates a possible unsafe condition. When I begin operating, I turn the LED on and place the device at the exit of the train area. When finished operating, I see it on my way out; and the rule is that I cannot turn if off until all locomotives are secured - in other words, all panel switches set to neutral so any locomotives on the layout are disconnected from the power packs.</div>
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This ensures that on power-up next time, there will be no runaway trains.</div>
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(This is conventional cab control, using DPST switches controlling each block). </div>
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<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-29638970691915168002020-01-18T11:47:00.000-05:002020-01-19T16:08:18.086-05:00Easy pipe load for Tyco flatsYou've seen the Tyco 40' flat car with its three giant pipe sections. They are wayyyyy too large to be believed, and they tend to roll off anyway.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NdV8yWkY_fI/XiM1mA86PsI/AAAAAAAAHxQ/d2w71gwhII8ANFQBazHSRRFeZv4_5IgrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/s-l400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="172" data-original-width="259" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NdV8yWkY_fI/XiM1mA86PsI/AAAAAAAAHxQ/d2w71gwhII8ANFQBazHSRRFeZv4_5IgrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/s-l400.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">photo: eBay seller nikiship</span></div>
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Here is how to make a more believable - and stable - removable pipe load for this car. It will rest just inside the molded tray.<br />
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1. Trim off the vertical divider tabs in 4 places. A utility knife will slice them off. Don't worry about neatness, those spots will be covered by the new load.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dvUHwfw57gQ/XiM2DsUfJlI/AAAAAAAAHxY/VszEKNUk0bg-AQBkqX3lzOsv9bSxWOINgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/P_20200118_112556_p%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1209" data-original-width="1600" height="241" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dvUHwfw57gQ/XiM2DsUfJlI/AAAAAAAAHxY/VszEKNUk0bg-AQBkqX3lzOsv9bSxWOINgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/P_20200118_112556_p%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. Obtain some 1/4" ID PEX plumbing tubing from your home improvement store. It comes 5 foot lengths, in grey or white. Grey is preferable, but white can be painted. A 5 foot piece is enough to make loads for two cars.</div>
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3. Cut the PEX tubing to length: 5 pieces @ 4 1/2". This is a somewhat soft plastic, you can cut it with a utility knife and cutting board. Score the tubing all the way around and gradually work the knife through it. </div>
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4. If there is printed lettering on the tubing, rub it off using 91% isopropyl alcohol. </div>
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5. Set up the bottom layer - three pieces tightly side by side, and run a bead of hot melt glue along the two joints. After it hardens, run two more beads, and stick the remaining two pipes on top.</div>
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6. Now the pipe load is stacked. Trim off any hot glue that oozed out. Paint if needed. I used a stick and masking tape for a painting handle to paint my white tubing grey.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTMxUVLFvWQ/XiM4baSgypI/AAAAAAAAHxk/eL6KXzhHbOQ0-8Y8C7PJwZQN2doe924igCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/P_20200118_112745_p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1487" data-original-width="1600" height="297" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTMxUVLFvWQ/XiM4baSgypI/AAAAAAAAHxk/eL6KXzhHbOQ0-8Y8C7PJwZQN2doe924igCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/P_20200118_112745_p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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7. Apply banding. I used 1/8" automotive pinstripe tape.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cwl1zdB_IDM/XiTFH15DvuI/AAAAAAAAH2M/musFeRbDCnIS6zHMuB_mmFFp9jEbIRZNACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="661" data-original-width="1000" height="211" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cwl1zdB_IDM/XiTFH15DvuI/AAAAAAAAH2M/musFeRbDCnIS6zHMuB_mmFFp9jEbIRZNACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/pipe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now you have a nice removable load! </div>
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<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-71827383437012672482019-12-21T16:08:00.001-05:002019-12-21T16:08:29.432-05:00Dome car improvements
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<span class="s1">Here is a Life-Like passenger car, originally Amtrak Silver Inn 8053, after a rebuild for the Cape Ann. The detail molded into the dining area in the dome is quite amazing, but generally goes unnoticed since the entire interior is all molded grey plastic.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kYgGeo-pa4w/Xf6JhDGnqoI/AAAAAAAAHXQ/pUHlWGE5N3g-d1xrs7-Zr7X9AceyHr3QwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/silver%2Binn%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kYgGeo-pa4w/Xf6JhDGnqoI/AAAAAAAAHXQ/pUHlWGE5N3g-d1xrs7-Zr7X9AceyHr3QwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/silver%2Binn%2B1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1">Step 1 (interior): A careful repaint in contrasting colors shows that each table has four place settings, silverware, coffee cups, napkins, and salt and pepper shakers! Here the carpet has been painted yellow, chairs Cape Ann green, tablecloths maroon. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Step 2 (not shown): Hungry passengers are brought in. It does require leg amputations to fit them into the seats.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jl8thwo4JC4/Xf6JujCkPqI/AAAAAAAAHXU/dV8XhaKC8A8ceTUJgcMzUhRPfZiXySgRgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/silver%2Binn%2B8053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="800" height="247" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jl8thwo4JC4/Xf6JujCkPqI/AAAAAAAAHXU/dV8XhaKC8A8ceTUJgcMzUhRPfZiXySgRgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/silver%2Binn%2B8053.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1">Step 3 (exterior): The all-clear dome needs a bit of work. First, all the window frames are painted by running a silver Sharpie pen along them for a metallic look. The a roof panel is added, made from - what else? duct tape.</span></div>
<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-6977193740290115022019-12-04T19:04:00.001-05:002019-12-04T19:04:12.882-05:00Recycling hood unit shellsHave an old shell from a hood unit loco hanging around? You can cut it up and add some ends from styrene to make a lineside instrument enclosure, or even tool storage for your shops. It would be a shame to let those nice doors go to waste!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6f_IzMM6KXY/XehJasfaKOI/AAAAAAAAHIg/PDkJu8HCfN4B3DvCD52UpdKrL0Dq34rWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/e1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="781" data-original-width="800" height="312" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6f_IzMM6KXY/XehJasfaKOI/AAAAAAAAHIg/PDkJu8HCfN4B3DvCD52UpdKrL0Dq34rWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/e1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGQwn8N1TuI/XehJdYwjmUI/AAAAAAAAHIk/QZ5a-WlP_foOHiu-0RLSjFwaeSqmGNLegCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/e2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="800" height="272" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGQwn8N1TuI/XehJdYwjmUI/AAAAAAAAHIk/QZ5a-WlP_foOHiu-0RLSjFwaeSqmGNLegCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/e2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-16455726809267553972019-11-22T19:19:00.000-05:002019-12-18T16:52:24.736-05:00Staging a loco service in the shopWhat to do with a dummy locomotive - or a beyond-repair locomotive? It can be staged as a unit being serviced. Here is an AHM dummy Alco "1000" (I think it is really a model S3). It is parked on the service track at Bolton Shops.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rnZr-CHJ4FY/Xdh6qx6tLdI/AAAAAAAAHAA/i4BST9O0D_MZEBWuCwj5wQGpxoADO_VIACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/doors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="800" height="208" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rnZr-CHJ4FY/Xdh6qx6tLdI/AAAAAAAAHAA/i4BST9O0D_MZEBWuCwj5wQGpxoADO_VIACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/doors.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Some of the access doors have apparently been removed for expediency. In reality, the doors are still in place, but have been painted flat black to make them just appear as openings. Four new "doors" have been cut from styrene and painted to match, and leaned against the hood. A workman is posed in position, along with his tool box. And the blue flag lanterns (LEDs) have been set in place foreward and aft.<br />
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A similar trick has been used to open some car hoods. See <a href="https://modelrailroadluddite.blogspot.com/2018/02/opening-car-hoods.html" target="_blank">this post</a>.<br />
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<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-1306131371583203392019-11-19T18:10:00.003-05:002022-01-09T15:58:52.664-05:00Pimp my Pancake Motors<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia";">The Cape Ann is a point-to-point layout with no provision for turning trains or locomotives. There is a runaround track at each end which allows locos to run around the train. With this configuration, it makes sense for the usual power to be two locos running back-to-back, so they need not be turned.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ecu3_ShbUd4/XdR1nl6EbpI/AAAAAAAAG7U/GvS7kexloAwTDz_56e6mIREY4iPNCJmlgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pancake1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="226" data-original-width="500" height="144" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ecu3_ShbUd4/XdR1nl6EbpI/AAAAAAAAG7U/GvS7kexloAwTDz_56e6mIREY4iPNCJmlgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/pancake1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<i>paired F7's</i><br />
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The standard loco used for passenger service is a Bachmann F9 Pancake Motor model, so called due to its "pancake" motor, having a flat 3-pole round rotor. I have standardized on this model, due to its common availability (can be had for $10-$12 used on eBay), and ease of service. This is a trainset quality loco, but with some tweaking we make reliable runners out of them. The pancake motor itself is never the issue, it is a nice little motor. The problem with it is getting the power to it reliably. (Some Like-Like locos use the same motor).<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
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The plan is to run the locos in mated pairs. First we will make each loco operate reliably independently, <i>then </i>wire them together. This results in a two-motor loco with double the number of electrical pickup axles. This arrangement makes it immune to any dropouts of power, since the pickup axles are now spread over a greater distance. Now it is a strong puller and will not stall over turnouts.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JRmLAMdzz9M/XdR16aoVCbI/AAAAAAAAG7c/FI6--HscpGkDedS3mLAzcAoMDXIRA4BigCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pancake2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="301" data-original-width="500" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JRmLAMdzz9M/XdR16aoVCbI/AAAAAAAAG7c/FI6--HscpGkDedS3mLAzcAoMDXIRA4BigCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/pancake2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<i>typical pancake motor loco</i><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: auto;">1. Find appropriate locos.</b><span style="font-family: "georgia"; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We search eBay for "HO Bachmann F9" or "HO Santa Fe 307" for possibilities. Look at photos closely. You can generally identify a pancake motor model by the odd notch in the fuel tank area - see pencil point in photo. Every one we have seen with this notch has been a pancake motor.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nULXXFzC5dw/XdR2RPPuQVI/AAAAAAAAG7o/kRxZmFgC8qYtFEZx8xawknlgyUJycdT5ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pancake3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nULXXFzC5dw/XdR2RPPuQVI/AAAAAAAAG7o/kRxZmFgC8qYtFEZx8xawknlgyUJycdT5ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/pancake3.JPG" width="293" /></a></div>
<i style="font-family: georgia;">notch here generally indicates a pancake motor model</i><br />
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<b style="font-family: georgia;">Electrical tuneup:</b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Remove the sideframe housing from the pickup truck. Remove the wheelsets for cleaning. Clean the treads and the back sides of the wheels as well (I use a little wire brush in a Dremel tool). Brighten up the wiper strips as well. Place a tiny dot of oil at the four points at which the axles rotate within the sideframe (this should cure any locos which require a little push to start).</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia";"><br /></span><b style="font-family: georgia;">Drivetrain tuneup:</b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Remove the sideframe housing from the drive truck. Place one dot of oil on each gear. Install new traction tires. I like the ones from eBay seller "ggnlars".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia";"><br /></span><b style="font-family: georgia;">Lighting upgrade:</b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Remove the stock lamp and replace with a 12v LED (All Electronics PN</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><a href="http://www.allelectronics.com/make-a-store/item/led-12w/12v-white-diffused-led-5mm-t1-3/4/1.html" style="font-family: georgia;" target="_diagram">LED-12W</a><span style="font-family: "georgia";">) and a 1K resistor (All Electronics PN</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><a href="http://www.allelectronics.com/make-a-store/item/291-1k/1k-ohm-1/4-watt/1.html" style="font-family: georgia;" target="_diagram">291-1K</a><span style="font-family: "georgia";">) in series. Be sure polarity is correct - it will only light in one direction of travel. This will provide directional, constant-intensity lighting. The LED will be at full brilliance before the loco has enough voltage to begin moving.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia";"><br /></span><b style="font-family: georgia;">Weight check:</b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">I add weight to 12 ounces - but that is a personal preference.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia";"><br /></span><b style="font-family: georgia;">Test each loco</b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">independently. Make sure it starts without nudging, and runs smoothly. If it requires a "nudge" to start, that indicates friction somewhere. See the note in</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><b style="font-family: georgia;">Electrical Tuneup</b><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">about lubing the axles.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia";"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Once they are operating 100%,</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><b style="font-family: georgia;">wire the locos together</b><span style="font-family: "georgia";">. I run paired #24 speaker wire between the locos, passing it through the rear window of each unit.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia";"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BWE_YIUBBYY/XdR2_4DY3UI/AAAAAAAAG74/k4zmvF6tjHYWbytxFUa3HzLCVMvxyu5MACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pancake4_lg.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1594" height="134" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BWE_YIUBBYY/XdR2_4DY3UI/AAAAAAAAG74/k4zmvF6tjHYWbytxFUa3HzLCVMvxyu5MACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/pancake4_lg.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />click to enlarge</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia"; text-align: left;">After shells are replaced,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><b style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: auto;">form the wire</b><span style="font-family: "georgia"; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>into a U-shape to allow flexibility.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia";">I leave the stock horn-hook couplers as is to join the locos. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia";">Where else can get you a dual-motor loco for the price?</span></div>
Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-40163123111878674392019-11-10T18:38:00.001-05:002019-11-10T18:38:31.152-05:00Pallets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lWzh0Jjuy-o/XciesuxDrXI/AAAAAAAAGx8/tLy0zO6NNOMM2aM1bsH3ZG9__JtcowGtQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/P_20191110_183235_p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="922" height="297" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lWzh0Jjuy-o/XciesuxDrXI/AAAAAAAAGx8/tLy0zO6NNOMM2aM1bsH3ZG9__JtcowGtQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/P_20191110_183235_p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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You can never have enough pallets cluttering up the layout. They are easy to make.<br />
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<ol>
<li>Get a box of FLAT toothpicks.</li>
<li>Cut 1/2" pieces out of the toothpicks, you can usually get two pieces out of the middle of each toothpick. </li>
<li>Place a loop of masking tape, sticky-side out, on your workbench.</li>
<li>Build the pallet upside down. Place five or six pieces in a row on the tape, leaving a little gap between each.</li>
<li>Place three pieces across, and glue with white glue.</li>
<li>Allow to dry then pop them off the tape.</li>
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Note: real pallets have three layers of boards. I tried this but they appeared too thick, so I just use the two layers as shown. No one has noticed.<br />
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<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-41260703624298762212019-03-07T16:44:00.001-05:002019-03-07T16:44:15.620-05:00Milk to DieselThis Matchbox milk truck converts easily to a fuel truck. Since the model is called "Petrol Pumper", that is what it was designed as originally.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gs98-AkSG6U/XIGQb3Fh9bI/AAAAAAAAEQw/_GALpDbMYBwjE9FTynR929rbqiQgjHIQgCLcBGAs/s1600/s-l640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="418" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gs98-AkSG6U/XIGQb3Fh9bI/AAAAAAAAEQw/_GALpDbMYBwjE9FTynR929rbqiQgjHIQgCLcBGAs/s320/s-l640.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
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<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-81136227542008521922019-03-05T10:31:00.001-05:002019-03-05T10:31:29.434-05:00Matchbox loadersThe cute little Matchbox Skid-steer (left) makes a nice HO loader. All it needed was paint on the loader arm and scoop, dirt on the tires, and the lights painted in. My two versions are on the right. A cut-in-half operator could be perched on the seat.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bYkkSXtefm4/XH6WHumW2pI/AAAAAAAAEPk/lL9n7H50jL0mQiHnkn93iK6unHWXIchQwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1529" height="188" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bYkkSXtefm4/XH6WHumW2pI/AAAAAAAAEPk/lL9n7H50jL0mQiHnkn93iK6unHWXIchQwCLcBGAs/s320/DSCN2012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-81218793532925505562019-03-02T14:22:00.001-05:002019-03-02T14:22:04.224-05:00Time wastersWe now have four time wasters installed on the layout, one at each passenger station, and one near a hobo camp.<br />
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The idea of a time waster is to "force" passage of time to make us wait while some imagined activity is occurring on the layout. The time waster is just a one-minute sand timer*, held in a cup made from a PVC pipe cap.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfbgwxIZ2DQ/XHrXBCCwmLI/AAAAAAAAEMo/gcVPt0doTDgM7PwOZJm4BNeXkMjzGIpPQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN2008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfbgwxIZ2DQ/XHrXBCCwmLI/AAAAAAAAEMo/gcVPt0doTDgM7PwOZJm4BNeXkMjzGIpPQCLcBGAs/s320/DSCN2008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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When a passenger train stops at a station, the timer is turned over to begin a one minute interval to allow time for passengers to detrain and board. The train cannot proceed until the time has elapsed.</div>
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The hobo camp time waster is explained by this excerpt from the rule book:</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="color: blue;"><b style="text-align: left;">Block 16 Trespasser check:</b><span style="text-align: left;"> If any portion of a freight train comes to a stop at any point in block 16, crew shall check for trespassers aboard the train before proceeding. This may be done by either walking the train, or a slow rollby. This is due to a known hobo encampment in this area. A one-minute timer shall be used to force passage of time before proceeding.</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="text-align: left;">* available from Amazon</span></i></span></div>
<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-74025333357119005822019-02-17T19:25:00.001-05:002019-02-17T19:36:18.019-05:00Easy structure lightingAll my structures are illuminated the same way, with LEDs scavenged from a string of Christmas lights.<br />
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Parts required:<br />
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<ul>
<li>String of LED Christmas lights</li>
<li>Resistors (see chart below)</li>
<li>Plug in wall transformer from some old appliance</li>
<li>Plastic milk jug</li>
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1. Pull the LED assemblies out of the string of lights. There is usually a little tab which has to be released first (arrow). Then just pull the assembly out.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaSPv9VTxz4/XGn5706VNQI/AAAAAAAAEFU/l2JbE_VFHakjv3PrlV3wNMSR-_ELMb8cACLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="729" data-original-width="849" height="274" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaSPv9VTxz4/XGn5706VNQI/AAAAAAAAEFU/l2JbE_VFHakjv3PrlV3wNMSR-_ELMb8cACLcBGAs/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. Add a dropping resistor to one lead of the LED. It doesn't matter which one. The value of the resistor is chosen depending on what voltage your plug-in transformer provides. The goal is to get 20mA through the LED. I use a 5 volt supply and I add a 1K resistor, which is an easy choice for any voltage between 3-12 volts. Then add wire long enough to reach your power supply. </div>
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Resistor values to provide 20mA</div>
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5 volts = 220 ohm</div>
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6 volts = 330 ohm</div>
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9 volts = 470 ohm</div>
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12 volts = 620 ohm</div>
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Of course, you can always use larger resistance values, the LED brightness goes down with increasing resistance. I use 1K just because I have a lot of them, and I don't want the structure lights too overpowering.</div>
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You should also read the label on your wall transformer and see what the current rating is. This will tell you how many 20 mA LEDs it can handle. 1 Amp = 1000 mA, so if your supply sources 1 Amp, that is the same as 1000 mA, so it will power 50 LEDs at 20 mA each.</div>
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Now you have to mark the wires for correct polarity. I don't bother keeping track until I get ready to connect them up. I just touch my two wires to a 6 volt lantern battery and see which way lights the LED. Then I mark the (+) lead with a red marker.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-izIfv5y9GCk/XGn5_b0Uv1I/AAAAAAAAEFY/ndeKBzWoBKQ6cqjVxv6hJrpTUzb57-6PACLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1110" data-original-width="779" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-izIfv5y9GCk/XGn5_b0Uv1I/AAAAAAAAEFY/ndeKBzWoBKQ6cqjVxv6hJrpTUzb57-6PACLcBGAs/s320/2.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
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3. Drill a 5/16" hole in your layout at your structure location, and poke the wire down the hole until the LED just sits atop the layout.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bDZJ6FDY3Tg/XGn5KCgBmGI/AAAAAAAAEE4/oKS6TeBhOcUVyR7cyCPIp4sblx_W64V6wCLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1149" data-original-width="1229" height="299" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bDZJ6FDY3Tg/XGn5KCgBmGI/AAAAAAAAEE4/oKS6TeBhOcUVyR7cyCPIp4sblx_W64V6wCLcBGAs/s320/3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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4. We do not want to see the LED through the structure windows, and we do not want to see a point source of light, so we add a diffuser. Cut a 1" x 3" piece off a plastic milk jug. Notch the ends and roll it into a cylinder, and place it over the LED. Here we see how the light is diffused by the translucent milk jug plastic.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rybhv6M4BWA/XGn5KhkI_3I/AAAAAAAAEE8/jACe9vLGlqkue_CBAJ-wvbXEt-QMiTFVwCLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="983" data-original-width="1076" height="292" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rybhv6M4BWA/XGn5KhkI_3I/AAAAAAAAEE8/jACe9vLGlqkue_CBAJ-wvbXEt-QMiTFVwCLcBGAs/s320/4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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5. Place your structure over the LED. Try putting some opaque black tape over some of the windows on the inside to suggest the building has different rooms - see the red building in the background below, the windows on the right have been blocked out inside.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1S82ZjYt334/XGn5LyUNT_I/AAAAAAAAEFA/jhkq6oq59-oORPsuM-FAyHGAsAMrWfTYQCLcBGAs/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="1248" height="262" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1S82ZjYt334/XGn5LyUNT_I/AAAAAAAAEFA/jhkq6oq59-oORPsuM-FAyHGAsAMrWfTYQCLcBGAs/s320/5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-217180353417528362019-01-19T16:02:00.001-05:002019-01-19T16:02:39.452-05:00TaxisOn a recent Amtrak trip, I noticed every station has a few taxis, but my layout did not. So we needed some taxis.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6eUH7_Ge5ds/XEOQHu9RFsI/AAAAAAAAD6A/BYawO-0e4ik2C6jss_6JlaDjcWIWb3DdwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6eUH7_Ge5ds/XEOQHu9RFsI/AAAAAAAAD6A/BYawO-0e4ik2C6jss_6JlaDjcWIWb3DdwCLcBGAs/s320/DSCN1905.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These are some el cheapo Chinese architectural model cars from eBay. They snap apart in 3 pieces (body, window insert, chassis). A quick yellow paint job, a roof sign from a bit of styrene, and a stripe made with a mini brush turns them into taxis.Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-80291812475084241502018-12-24T13:38:00.002-05:002020-07-14T20:21:50.390-04:00Matchbox and Hot Wheels?<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #1d2129;">The question frequently comes up about using toy diecast vehicles such as Matchbox and Hot Wheels on an HO layout. You will hear "<i>they are too big</i>" for HO scale. Not necessarily true. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Despite the stated scale of 1/64 (which happens to be S scale), Matchbox and Hot Wheels vehicles actually <i>vary</i> in scale.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dzVVX9B0CDI/XDZ2Fey1geI/AAAAAAAADyE/dynF34-0FEgy1zaC3mz1iemshRn7939RQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="872" data-original-width="1190" height="234" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dzVVX9B0CDI/XDZ2Fey1geI/AAAAAAAADyE/dynF34-0FEgy1zaC3mz1iemshRn7939RQCLcBGAs/s320/DSCN1908.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Proof they are <b>not</b> too big. This Matchbox Scenicruiser bus measures the correct 40 feet long - <i>in N scale!</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YolkOg2TABM/XDZ2xZW87wI/AAAAAAAADyM/45Ztp9e0wZUreZ8wIQnHqFa9ljYFrgABgCLcBGAs/s1600/specs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="177" data-original-width="309" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YolkOg2TABM/XDZ2xZW87wI/AAAAAAAADyM/45Ztp9e0wZUreZ8wIQnHqFa9ljYFrgABgCLcBGAs/s1600/specs.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Scenicruiser specifications - <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PD-4501_Scenicruiser">source</a></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #1d2129;"><br />This is because of two criteria:<br /><br />1. They have a <b>MINIMUM</b> size. Since they are classified as toys, they must follow <a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Business--Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Small-Parts-for-Toys-and-Childrens-Products">reg</a></span><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Business--Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Small-Parts-for-Toys-and-Childrens-Products">ulations</a> set by the CPSC (Consumer Products Safety Commission), which requires toys to pass the swallow test by not passing through a cylindrical opening of a certain size. (Actual HO vehicles marketed to modelers are clearly labelled NOT A TOY in order to be exempt from this requirement.)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. They also have a <b>MAXIMUM</b> size, defined by their manufacturing tooling and blister packaging requirements.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">So vehicles are scaled up or down as needed to fit within those parameters. Passenger cars, being the midrange of vehicle sizes, tend to be the advertised 1/64; yes, larger than HO scale. Stuff we can use for HO models would be larger-prototypes such as buses, trucks, or construction equipment; where deviations from scale are not noticeable to the eye. (Except to the eyes of the rivet counters who visit me occasionally!).</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129;">Here are some Matchbox/Hot Wheels vehicles in use on my HO layout. Some have had modifications. Many of them only need some dots of paint for lights and have a license plate painted in.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aig_LJB7fx4/XCEnEFkAbtI/AAAAAAAADnc/DbMpfwUQuus1rhwV8yWjPQquhzfzkqudACLcBGAs/s1600/MOW_947%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="289" data-original-width="500" height="184" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aig_LJB7fx4/XCEnEFkAbtI/AAAAAAAADnc/DbMpfwUQuus1rhwV8yWjPQquhzfzkqudACLcBGAs/s320/MOW_947%2Bcopy.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Matchbox skid-steer loader and carrier <a href="https://modelrailroadluddite.blogspot.com/2018/08/loader-carrier-for-mow.html">details</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QydfaXmzj7A/XCEniHP5STI/AAAAAAAADnk/qzzIJpNnbpUgmKi-m8yjxceYuhLfTApHwCLcBGAs/s1600/PSH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="219" data-original-width="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QydfaXmzj7A/XCEniHP5STI/AAAAAAAADnk/qzzIJpNnbpUgmKi-m8yjxceYuhLfTApHwCLcBGAs/s1600/PSH.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Matchbox skid-steer loader</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MPYYtxowSYA/XCEn4fSK08I/AAAAAAAADns/wnDSkMuIjd4R6wsNOkKSDYZhiTpuqna4QCLcBGAs/s1600/ups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="306" data-original-width="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MPYYtxowSYA/XCEn4fSK08I/AAAAAAAADns/wnDSkMuIjd4R6wsNOkKSDYZhiTpuqna4QCLcBGAs/s1600/ups.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hot Wheels "Combat Medic" as a UPS truck <a href="https://modelrailroadluddite.blogspot.com/2018/11/ups-truck.html">details</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2K_JEq01DqU/XCEoZ7gRCYI/AAAAAAAADn4/zL3CJm_vXNcqtJ34q4_YHi3KDzFfgsn6gCLcBGAs/s1600/hirail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1199" height="215" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2K_JEq01DqU/XCEoZ7gRCYI/AAAAAAAADn4/zL3CJm_vXNcqtJ34q4_YHi3KDzFfgsn6gCLcBGAs/s320/hirail.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Matchbox Datsun as a Hi-rail vehicle <a href="https://modelrailroadluddite.blogspot.com/2018/07/hi-rail-trucks-1-each.html">details</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_zUjo9NcqZ0/XCEpNrUKF6I/AAAAAAAADoA/NBeCYxmWhjEg4aYk1oRbUtlSMymP0dh_wCLcBGAs/s1600/lumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_zUjo9NcqZ0/XCEpNrUKF6I/AAAAAAAADoA/NBeCYxmWhjEg4aYk1oRbUtlSMymP0dh_wCLcBGAs/s1600/lumb.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Matchbox Glass King as a lumber delivery truck <a href="http://modelrailroadluddite.blogspot.com/2017/12/1-lumber-truck.html">details</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5XAL5VCleWI/XCEqXmz4HVI/AAAAAAAADoM/6pP7m6dq-046Ywa1W3VaDuj592zVKP_jACLcBGAs/s1600/stacker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1287" data-original-width="1574" height="261" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5XAL5VCleWI/XCEqXmz4HVI/AAAAAAAADoM/6pP7m6dq-046Ywa1W3VaDuj592zVKP_jACLcBGAs/s320/stacker.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">crane as a stacker</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k31-kGF8mkM/XCEqfKnHzFI/AAAAAAAADoQ/oGdRheE5CCYRPZ2KIMkqcqa69ifdSfNAgCLcBGAs/s1600/trackmobile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1098" data-original-width="1244" height="282" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k31-kGF8mkM/XCEqfKnHzFI/AAAAAAAADoQ/oGdRheE5CCYRPZ2KIMkqcqa69ifdSfNAgCLcBGAs/s320/trackmobile.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Matchbox bulldozer as a trackmobile by removing the blade</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_4MPeFFXl8/XCEs1y5YKzI/AAAAAAAADog/Hkj06XsdCyga4TMnZ2Y_TY9RjdSfBtL0gCLcBGAs/s1600/garbage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="278" data-original-width="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_4MPeFFXl8/XCEs1y5YKzI/AAAAAAAADog/Hkj06XsdCyga4TMnZ2Y_TY9RjdSfBtL0gCLcBGAs/s1600/garbage2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Matchbox garbage truck after a paint job <a href="https://modelrailroadluddite.blogspot.com/2018/02/garbage-before-and-after.html">details</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kto8AcGMyuM/XDZQ41FsHZI/AAAAAAAADxw/IHiCFRPbaqUSOL_jr6M3s0FwT8dVzg8mwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kto8AcGMyuM/XDZQ41FsHZI/AAAAAAAADxw/IHiCFRPbaqUSOL_jr6M3s0FwT8dVzg8mwCLcBGAs/s320/DSCN1901.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Matchbox Scenicruiser bus and water delivery truck.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xg76GH4PAW0/XDZRFG3YXKI/AAAAAAAADx0/yts3B4th5GoU4flZLnkt-7SOg3fHBQNcgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="917" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xg76GH4PAW0/XDZRFG3YXKI/AAAAAAAADx0/yts3B4th5GoU4flZLnkt-7SOg3fHBQNcgCLcBGAs/s320/DSCN1898.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Matchbox stake-body truck with pipe load made by Bill Sweet.</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></span>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-81902676544044099942018-12-12T20:41:00.002-05:002018-12-12T20:42:19.851-05:00Using Sand Timers<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Found these cute little sand timers (1 minute) on Amazon. I am using them to "force" passage of time ... when a passenger train stops at the station, I turn the timer to force a wait while passengers get on/off. I placed one near each station.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HSq8FOVBB1A/XBG4PsbcLQI/AAAAAAAADho/WMeA4Px46mYlNA-4csV0BshvFwkkN70ZgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="884" data-original-width="1600" height="176" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HSq8FOVBB1A/XBG4PsbcLQI/AAAAAAAADho/WMeA4Px46mYlNA-4csV0BshvFwkkN70ZgCLcBGAs/s320/DSCN1781.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Waiting for passengers</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I also use one of the timers to time out Rule 27 which reads: Block 16 Trespasser check: If any portion of a freight train comes to a stop at any point in block 16, crew shall check for trespassers aboard the train before proceeding. This may be done by either walking the train, or a slow rollby. This is due to a known hobo encampment in this area. A one-minute timer shall be used to simulate passage of time before proceeding.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iLO0PbWlaF8/XBG4X6ZS7LI/AAAAAAAADhs/vpeHmalO33c8JviYuc_4jOnFUm8sGsHvQCLcBGAs/s1600/47161603_10155656131510426_3631168684380127232_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="697" height="287" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iLO0PbWlaF8/XBG4X6ZS7LI/AAAAAAAADhs/vpeHmalO33c8JviYuc_4jOnFUm8sGsHvQCLcBGAs/s320/47161603_10155656131510426_3631168684380127232_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Damn hippies!</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #eff1f3; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KQ6I47O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">link to these little timers</a>. Four timers for about $8. </span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #eff1f3; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9028715270568509100.post-67411417554496131932018-12-09T15:52:00.001-05:002018-12-09T16:12:45.100-05:00Before you do the 4x8 plywood...<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13px;">The traditional starter railroad is on a 4x8 sheet of plywood. However, a rectangle has limitations - you are pretty much limited to a little oval of track, and it is difficult to use the corner space in a practical way. Here's an easy improvement on the good old 4x8. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n_-l2se_E_0/XA2AFQbUsWI/AAAAAAAADhI/AYZaMDTG6AogvJ6_Q4f4UaZTURFzl8FFQCLcBGAs/s1600/4by8_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="1313" height="171" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n_-l2se_E_0/XA2AFQbUsWI/AAAAAAAADhI/AYZaMDTG6AogvJ6_Q4f4UaZTURFzl8FFQCLcBGAs/s320/4by8_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13px;">Cut off two 24" x 24" triangles, outlined above, off one end. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuBSzK_MXBY/XA2AOAOMyBI/AAAAAAAADhM/T1ztSCuz9xofioYYdbUvzGNuV7EdM4mYQCLcBGAs/s1600/4by8_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="1416" height="134" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuBSzK_MXBY/XA2AOAOMyBI/AAAAAAAADhM/T1ztSCuz9xofioYYdbUvzGNuV7EdM4mYQCLcBGAs/s320/4by8_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13px;">Flip them around and attach them to the other end. Now your 4x8 is 4x10, with a shape better suited to a big oval, with a longer mainline run. Formerly wasted corner space is gone.</span>Rick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06436559679871224754noreply@blogger.com0