Confessions of a Model Train Geek
A model train geek, learning as he goes.
steve
I recently constructed a loading ramp on my layout to better serve the CN team track. It was loosely modeled after a few ramps I’ve seen in the past, including the loading ramp that used to be in Debert, Nova Scotia.
On a layout like my Central Prairie Railway, you need a lot of grain hoppers. I recently received a Rapido 3800 cubic foot hopper car and I took it for a drive on my layout.
“Let’s get this show on the road.” Tyler groaned inwardly. In the seven months that he’s been a conductor at the Central Prairie Railway, Tyler has worked with all of the eight engineers that the CePR employs. Some are better than others, but Rick is definitely the corniest. He has his standard phrases, and he uses them on every trip. At least he’s predictable.
I’m not a very sentimental person. I don’t tend to keep a lot of keepsakes, and when we travel, I usually don’t buy souvenirs. I rely on my photos and my memories. However, this box means a lot to me.
There’s a new model train store in Winnipeg! Frog and Diamond Hobbyworks opened on October 1, 2022. The store features model trains in N, HO, and G scales, together with model railway magazines and scenery materials. Their name plays on two types of railway track, a frog (in a switch) and a diamond (where railways … Read more
I was sorry to hear that Iain Rice passed away on October 8, 2022. This is a great loss for the modeling community. My condolences to his family.
Ivan handed the switch list over to Abhishek. “Light work today,” he said, “but get it done as soon as you can before CN comes to pick up their cars.”
Abhi, as his coworkers knew him, walked out to the cab of 4242 and climbed up to to his spot on the left side of the cab, opposite the engineer, Dan. He echoed the yardmaster’s words: “Light work today.”
I purchased a few HO scale model railway cars at an estate sale recently. They will be worthy additions to my fleet once I check them over and maybe tune them up a bit. The locomotive, CN 4109, is a dummy GP9 that appears to have been renumbered. The numbers are way too small. I’m … Read more
The first train to Warrant had some work to do! After engineer Greg and conductor Tyler brought the train into Warrant, they had to do some switching before they could go for lunch. You may recall they had five boxcars (including two refrigerated boxcars) and a grain hopper, plus the engine (ex CP 4242) and … Read more
Ivan looked out over the Central Prairie Railway’s rail yard in Grand Plains and counted cars. The yard master saw there were enough waiting rail cars to justify sending a train to Warrant. He pulled out his cell phone and made a few calls. While the crew dispatcher ordered a road crew, the yard crew … Read more
