Showing posts with label model trains. Show all posts
Showing posts with label model trains. Show all posts

Super Empire Builder Xtra Starter Set, 5A Review

Super Empire Builder Xtra Starter Set, 5A
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Darn it Amazon! This is NOT a toy, it's a hobbyist item - like plastic models, diorama construction, or model trains. This starter set, produced by DigiTrax, is a solidly built system which includes the Command Station, a two model throttle, and a UP5 console for use as a plug in on a layout. The system makes use of LocoNet to communicate with other items like additional throttles, PC interfaces (like the PR3), switch machines (like the DS64), and other items. It's very easy to implement this system in place of your DC throttle. Simply unplug the DC rectifier leads (-) and (+) and connect them to the appropriate terminals on the command station. You will need to either possess or purchase a power supply capable of putting out 12 to 20VDC and supply 5A of current. DigiTrax does NOT include one in the package, but there are suitable versions sold by both DigiTrax, NCE, and DCC Specialties.
The throttle included, usually a DT402, is a wired throttle that is Infared-Ready. This means that while the set does not include a IR receiver panel, you can put a 9V battery in the throttle and use it with a IR capable panel (sold separately) and it will work without additional equipment.
There are limitations to the system, though - mainly that you cannot read CV values off the main track, only write. You can not have a dedicated programming track either, as the command station does not have hookups for it. However, if you pair this with a PR3 (sold separately) you can use it as a programmer, and even connect your computer to use it as a 'software' throttle and management system.

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JTT Landscaping Material - Wire Foliage Branches, Light Green Review

JTT Landscaping Material - Wire Foliage Branches, Light Green
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For building a realistic model railroad scene this product is ready to go, easy to use and a great price! I ordered more as soon as I used the first package!

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N Subterrain Scenery Kit Review

N Subterrain Scenery Kit
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I bought this to practice and learn before trying to tackle a 4'x6' railroad model. It was pretty easy to do and really helped me learn, and when finished made a nice diorama.

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On30 Spectrum 2-Truck Shay, Midwest Quarry Review

On30 Spectrum 2-Truck Shay, Midwest Quarry
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This is part of Bachmann's high quality line of 1/4" to the foot ('O' Scale) models. These represent 30" narrow gauge trains that operated around the late 1800's through the mid 1900's. These models run on HO gauge track, though the tie spacing is aesthetically incorrect for this scale; proper O scale 30" gauge track is available.
This really represents the pinnacle of mass produced locomotives. The majority of this model is high quality die-cast metal, and most of the detail parts are metal as well. Solder joints are clean and professionally done, and the paint job is fantastic. The drive-train functions in a completely prototypical manner, with variable length universal joints transferring rotation to the wheels via bevel gears. Watching this model run is simply fascinating! The gearing is very low, so this engine is amazingly smooth at slow speeds. Considering that real shay locomotives rarely broke 20 mph, this is just fine. There is space in the fuel bunker for a DCC decoder, and even a speaker for a sound equipped decoder. There are several after market 'dress up kits' out there for this model, but even if you leave it as is, it is a beautiful little machine.
The quality of this piece easily rivals $1000+ hand made brass imports from a few years ago; you simply will not find anything to be the least bit disappointed about with this loco. The actual length of this model is about 7".
Note that this is a finescale model, and is appropriately fragile. Children would certainly enjoy this, but it is meant to be enjoyed with the eyes, and only gently cared for with the hands! Unless you are pretty interested in scale model railroading, I'm not sure why you would even consider buying this...

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N Overhead Station Set Review

N Overhead Station Set
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This is a great addition to the railroad. Just wish it had lights. Otherwise it is great to watch the trains (2) of them go through it.

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BULLFROG SNOT Universal Liquid Plastic Traction Tires Review

BULLFROG SNOT Universal Liquid Plastic Traction Tires
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Despite the unattractive images this product's name evokes, it works very well. I do find the price to be somewhat excessive but since it made a $150 N scale steam locomotive's pulling capacity up a 3% grade increase from four cars to thirteen, I can hardly object.
Application of the traction material to your locomotive's drivers is fairly straight forward and is well explained in the instructions. There is enough material in the small jar to treat hundreds of locomotives so if you belong to a model RR club, it would be money well spent. For you lone engineers out there, you may want to consider splitting the costs with another model railroader.

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HO River Pass Layout Kit Review

HO River Pass Layout Kit
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This kit does build the beginnings of a neat 4'x8' layout, and if you buy the two additional kits, additional tools and materials, and track it's all relatively simple. If it were just rated for the layout and for the amount of fun that you should have building it (if there weren't so many problems), it would be 5 stars.
But there are several problems that detract from the fun. The first is that while it's implied that you'll be getting everything that you need, you don't get everything you need or even close to it. Expect to spend at least another hundred bucks on tools, glue, extra materials, etc., and that's just with the first kit. You open the box and the first thing in the instructions is that if you want to make it a lot easier on yourself, you also need a low-temp glue gun and glue, a foam cutter, and foam knife. (And of course they're also all made by Woodland Scenics.) Take off a star.
The second is that it states that there isn't any dust or mess. I don't think they've ever built one of them, then, because the steps where you apply the plaster cloth are messy and dusty. I had to use a mask while cutting the plaster cloth into the required strips, it was so bad. And I had plaster on my clothes, enough to get my wife upset with me. Take off half a star.
The worst problem is that Woodland Scenics got lazy when writing the instructions. The first 2/3 of the booklet are fairly precise with lots of measurements and drawings, and things go easily and smoothly and you have lots of confidence that you're going to have a great looking finished product. Then suddenly your left on your own with generalizations about how to do the remaining steps. They say to "look at the picture on the box" for guidance, but it's really very little help if you've never built a layout before and don't already know what you're doing. Basically you've got to imagine how everything's going to fit together in the end, but if you've never done it before, there's no way to know how it's going to fit together. And reading the rest of the instructions doesn't help. So take off another star and half.
If you go into this knowing that you're getting quite a bit less than you're expecting, then it's worth the price. And the price should be around two fifty - anything more and you're paying too much, so look around a little.

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HO River Pass Scenery Kit Review

HO River Pass Scenery Kit
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Great kit for starters. Don't expect the lights to light up, they don't. But the kit gives you all the basics to make a nice scenic layout. I built a 4'X 8' layout of my own design. The wife and I had a lot of fun with this. This is great if you don't know what to buy individually. Probably cheaper too. All the "accessories" are cast metal and some require assembly.

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O Crossing Signal (2) Review

O Crossing Signal (2)
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I use these on my SuperStreet trolley layout they are very nice and easy to wire and hook up. The look great!

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The Scenery Kit Review

The Scenery Kit
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I first bought this kit when I first got into model railroading. I knew that I didn't know much about how to do the whole 'scenic-ing' stuff.
This is a great tool to practice some very vital elements to modeling. The directions take you through a step-by-step process.
From weathering rocks, to building trees to laying ballast and track, this diorama gets you quickly into modeling--and through the learning curve quickly.
This scene now holds an engine to display.
This is a great place to get your feet wet.

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7 Nine N Scale Railroads Review

7 Nine N Scale Railroads
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This book proivids an excelent description of how to build 9 N scale model railroad layouts using Atlas track. It give tips and directions to assemble the track and wiring the layout. It is a good reference for N scale modelers.

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6-12018 FT Manual Switch Right O Review

6-12018 FT Manual Switch Right O
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We bought a few switches to make our basic loop more fun. The switch comes with a quarter turn piece of track. You can change the side that the switch post is on from the left to the right. This is helpful since the post can get in the way on some layouts. It is well built and trains make it smoothly across the switch without derailing. They are a bit expensive, but it makes your train set more fun. Be careful when ordering because there is a left hand and right hand switch.

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Lionel FasTrack Figure-8 Track Pack Review

Lionel FasTrack Figure-8 Track Pack
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Was purchased as a Christmas present for grandsons Lionel train. They loved it. Arrived on a timely basis, smooth transaction with seller.

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6-12030 Lionel Figure 8 Add-On Track PackDescription:- O36 Curve (6-12015) 4 pcs- 5 Straight (6-12024) 4 pcs- 90 Degree Crossover (6-12019) 1 pcsDimensions: Layout : 39 1/2 x 90 1/2

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Lionel Arch-Under Bridge Review

Lionel Arch-Under Bridge
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This is a fairly large size O-scale bridge for a low price, but the visual quality is poor. There are only three cross supports, at the ends and one in the middle, so as designed the bridge looks silly / unrealistic / structurally wrong. Also, although there are simulated rivet heads, where multiple steel framing members meet, they are "magically" smooshed together into a single physical layer. The bridge is best used in the background, as it will not bear close visual inspection.
I am planning to use Evergreen and Plastruct styrene shapes to create a somewhat more realistic bridge, although you could easily spend more time on it than this is worth. There are much better bridges by Atlas on the market, but they are also much more expensive and none are available in this particular configuration.

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Span that river or small valley with this Lionel Arch-Under Bridge. This is a perfect companion to Lionel?s elevated trestle kit (Sold Separately).

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HO Grand Valley Layout Kit Review

HO Grand Valley Layout Kit
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I am a retired female who recently joined a railroad modeling club. To get started I bought the Grand Valley Layout Kit which arrived within a week. And the Amazon price is $100 less than your retail hobby shop.
This is an excellent kit especially for beginners. Instructions are clear with picture illustrations. It certainly stimulates your creativity and allows you to make modifications with ease, if you want. I changed the track layout removing the "Y" section within the circular area so I could build an amusement park instead. The kit is packed with all you need minus the track and structures. I bought the hot glue gun and hot wire foam cutter that were recommended. They are excellent and easy to use. The Woodland Scenics Website offers lots of ideas and further instructions to enhance your modeling skills.
I used flex track instead of what was recommended at the urging of my club members. And, they helped me install the first half since flex track was new to me. Otherwise, I am putting it together alone with club members giving me encouragement and additional ideas for scenic details.
This is an excellent activity for grandparents and grandkids to do together, and I encourage females to try it. Model railroading seems to be dominated by older men. Woodland Scenic products allows the rest of us to enjoy this pastime providing lots of instructions and handy tools. The Grand Valley Layout Kit is a great way to get started on a pastime that can keep your interest for a long time.

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MRC Symphony 77 Sound Station Review

MRC Symphony 77 Sound Station
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The MRC Symphony 77 Sound Station was a complete surprise when I received it. The quality is much less than is typically expected when one purchases a product from MRC. The way they advertise their system, you almost come away with the understanding that the sould level on this thing would really blast out the railroad sounds when it's just the opposite of that. The sound would be compared to the golden era of the pocket transistor radio. I was extremely disappointed with this purchase. Even the quality of the materials used in the hand unit & speaker boxes is much less than one expects from MRC as well. If you're looking for simple train sounds & not that particular about realism, I guess this Symphony 77 would work however, if you're looking for "true to life" prototypical sound, the MRC Symphony 77 doesn't cut it!
I would say the manufacturer needs to rethink the MSRP on this product because in my opinion, it's only worth about $24.99 & I'd be hard pressed to pay that once I heard the unit. Sorry, but MRC has failed in design & quality with this product & it just isn't up to the good quality standards one expects to receive from MRC model railroad products. I'd have to give this about a 2.5 to 3.0 rating out of 10 for performance & durability. I personally would not recommend this item to any of my serious model railroading buddies. As a starter system for someone who isn't that particular with sound, I guess this product would work but... I feel even at that the MRC Symphony 77 is over-priced for what you receive. You really blew it this time MRC, sorry but I gotta give it the "thumbs down" award.

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MRC Symphony 77 is a steam and diesel locomotive sound system for any model railroad layout. MRC Symphony 77 produces the highest quality, most realistic digital railroad sounds imaginable. With its two large speakers and powerful amplifier, the handheld controller allows you to awaken your locomotives like never before. Its eight foot cable gives you maximum mobility around your track. Imagine being track side at a major rail hub… locomotives busily performing their appointed tasks, noisily shoving freight cars into their sidings, or pulling a string of cars, with railroad sounds everywhere around you. From over your shoulder, you hear a conductor yell, "All aboard!" and then almost immediately a fast moving freight rumbles through in front of you. Plug and play simplicity makes it easy for the beginner. The range of functions make it perfect for the seasoned railroader to conduct a symphony of sounds. It's all here in MRC Symphony 77! More than 25 different sounds, with many breathtaking sound-on-sound combinations, and controllable speed rates for diesel and steam. It's all here; Steam or diesel modes, Choice of Horns, Choice of Whistles, Air Release, Brake, Dynamic Brake, Water Pump, Fan, Coal being shoveled, Conductor, Bell, Crossing Gate and Rail Clacks. Just plug in the included AC adapter and the MRC Symphony 77 will provide music to a model railroaders ears, that Mozart would be proud of.


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Bachmann Trains Roadside Stand Review

Bachmann Trains Roadside Stand
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I bought this item for my grandson's platform but when I recieved the product it carried a warning on the box which stated that the product contained a chemical that was known to cause cancer and birth defects. I returned the item to Amazon

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O Scale. Assembly required. Easy to assemble model kit. Since 1947, hobbyists and collectors have made Plasticville U.S.A. products their structures of choice, adding character and dimension to layouts in HO, O, and N scale. Skill level 1 to 2. These kits may be painted to add detail, molded in color.

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