Tools, tips and tricks

tyndalljohn6's picture

Lighted Magnifier in your pocket

Use your phone, smart phone or tablet to take pictures on you layout? You don't need to snap the picture just use the the highly magnified screen to check details, track alignment, etc. If you have an assisted light app turn it on first and it's like watching a wide screen TV. Think of the possibilities.

Jan 2016-2: Fired Up: Oiling, watering, fueling

Explore the world of small-scale live steam with Fired up! Jeff and Trevor discuss the oiling, watering and fueling procedures as they prepare a live steam locomotive for operation. This is part four of six. Includes bonus short: Sausages & Steam-4.

QSI Q1a decoders: can identical locos have their engine sounds slightly de-synced?

I am MU'ing two identical Walthers H10-44 switchers, each outfitted with a factory-installed QSI Q1a decoder. I cannot find any information in the literature on how to make each engine sound a tiny bit different from the other so that it is obvious there are two prime movers working.

I also have some Tsunami decoders that have this available as an option and it really makes a difference in sound when a consist goes rumbling by.

Weathering with Mike Confalone: Project 1-Chessie covered hopper

In the first of a three-part Backshop Clinic series, Miles Hale demonstrates classic techniques for casting and painting rock, including instructions for making your own latex moulds.  In part one he discusses commercial molds and pouring plaster. - See more at: http://trainmasters.tv/videos/2016-01-1#sthash.XKbh741W.dpuf
geoffb's picture

SMA22 – Low Cost DCC Controller/Function Generator for Animation, Test Tracks, Absolute Stopping Blocks for Keep-Alive DCC Locos

Model animation—bringing models to life—adds enormously to the interest and enjoyment of any layout or individual model! This entry describes how to build what I call a “DCC Function Generator,” a combination of DCC base station and throttle for about $8 that can be used for mixed DCC animation control, DCC testing, Absolute/Emergency Stop blocking for lift-outs and bridges even for Keep-Alive equipped DCC locos, trolley multi-stop control, and all around DCC havoc!

GregW66's picture

Limits of the Cricut cutter

I am having trouble getting a good picture but I hope this gives you the idea. I tried pushing the Cricut to its limits by building a door out of 3 layers of cardstock. Thin styrene would be similar. I am a little disappointed in the squareness of the cuts. Serviceable but no replacement for a Grandt Line door. I'll post the pic in the comments.

Ned Help -- Correct Canon & Co. fans for SP SD-9 and GP-9's

Hello all,

I'd like to replace the fans on my P2K SD9 and GP9's but I'm having trouble knowing which ones would be appropriate. I do' not see a correct replacement from Canon and company listed. Which 36 and 48 would work for mid 70's GRIP program 9E/R's?

Also referencing the picture in the link below there is an odd flat top 36" fan on the rear of this GP9. What would be appropriate?

Mike Confalone weathering series teaser ...

Here's a 30 second teaser for the Mike Confalone weathering series that starts on TMTV this week and will have weekly episodes for the next three months or so.

Mike Confalone weathering series teaser from TrainMasters TV.

kleaverjr's picture

Many Questions about Laser Cutters WAS: What Accessories Should I look into WAS: Requesting Updated "list" of Laser Cutters...

Instead of creating new threads for each question, I am just adding to this one to keep the discussion together.


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