Planning Your Model Railroad

For the model train hobbyist, this incredibly detailed book features 81 model track plan options. Each project description includes technical advice and prototype photos that will inspire any model railroad enthusiast. Projects feature likely obstacles that might be encountered during construction and helpful tips for getting it right the first time. Line art diagrams, layout routes, dimensions, and even photographs of the finished layout are included. The book is organized into six sections - The Best Plans for Your First Layout, Shelf Style Layouts, Bedroom-Size Track Plans, Track Plans for Larger Spaces, Staging Yards and Holdover Tracks, and Modular Model Railroad Plans.

Unlock the secrets of steam locomotives with this comprehensive book covering how they work, including their design, evolution, and construction. Learn about how they were designed, how they work, what each of the components do, and how the engines operated. Well-known railway author Brian Solomon covers their strengths and weaknesses, how they evolved, and how and why diesel locomotives were able to supersede them. You'll get an in-depth view of the fascinating and extremely popular steam locomotives used throughout history including: How steam locomotive components work together to get a train into motion The evolution of steam leading to more-powerful locomotives The various wheel arrangements and what service each was designed for Differences among coal- and oil-fired types And more! Featuring extensive photo coverage and drawings, this 208-page book is essential for any railfan or model railroader. Take the mystery out of these iconic living, breathing beings!

From Model Railroader magazine, these simple layout designs are ideal for beginners. Features full-color plans and construction techniques for HO and N scale starter layouts.

Covers freight and passenger operations, route design, and contemporary railroading operations. The step-by-step design techniques and operation-oriented track plans also make it easy to create your own realistic model railroad.

Featuring today's newest products and equipment, this photo-packed guide features contemporary images of diesel locomotives and urban settings, plus updates to Dave's trademark scenery "recipes." Includes new chapters on Western scenery and desert modeling, and city scenery and urban settings.

Design a freelanced or prototype-based model railroad by selecting a time period, modeling geography, creating a roster, using graphics, and following paint schemes.

Learn how to model natural land forms, crops, forests, and lakes. You'll be able to apply what you see in real life to your modeling and recreate these scenic elements. Produce impressive signature scenes for your model railroad.