Classic Toy Trains September 2013

BUILD A BIG CITY IN 3 EASY STAGES
By Kent Johnson
Classic Toy Trains Senior Editor Kent Johnson presents three creative ways to add a busy downtown scene in a compact space.
pg. 28

CALIFORNIA DREAMING: SALUTING THE GOLDEN STATE IN O GAUGE
By Roger Carp
With help from expert builders, Jeff Silk has built a remarkable and highly realistic 26 x 50-foot railroad.
pg. 34

A FASTRACK SCHEME WITH A SURPRISING SECRET
By Peter H. Riddle
This room-sized layout features a "mystery mountain" that is sure to amaze and delight your visitors.
pg. 40

FIVE ACTION-PACKED LIONEL OUTFITS FROM THE LATE 1950S
By Roger Carp
Action-packed sets were the rule at Lionel in the postwar era. Discover the trains that promised the most fun between 1955 and 1959.
pg. 42

A DOZEN EASY WIRING TIPS
By Stan Trzoniec
Unleash your railroad's full potential with electrical tips and tricks from a master layout builder.
pg. 46

THE INS AND OUTS OF MINI-CRAFT'S COLLECTIBLE POSTWAR DINERS
By Roger Carp
An overlooked S gauge accessory offers insights into the development and marketing of postwar accessories.
pg. 52

SEE THE COMPACT DISPLAY LAYOUT LIONEL SHOULD HAVE BUILT!
By Roger Carp
Dan Marquardt got every detail right when he built an 8 x 8-foot railroad with the look of a Lionel postwar display.
pg. 54

ACHIEVING REALISM ON A GREAT ROOM-SIZED S GAUGE RAILROAD
By Roger Carp
Dick Iannacone runs his vintage American Flyer trains in beautiful settings on his 17 x 20-foot pike.
pg. 60