What’s New–June1, 2024

Update #85–May 28, 2024

All,

Sorry for the delay in posting an update.  The delay was the result of surgery in February coupled with recovery and other activities.  I am now fully recovered and spent the past several weeks updating the site.  The update took longer than estimated because we sold sold nearly one third of our inventory, as well as including many new arrivals.  Now, most sections are now updated with the exception of some of the freight car entries.

The summer and early fall are shaping up to be very active.  Look for us at the following train shows:

June 21-22, 2024 at the N Scale National Convention in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.  The show will take place at the Wind Creek Hotel, and we will occupy 10 tables, including operating display.

August 10-11, 2024 at the Greenberg Train Show in Edison, New Jersey.  The show will take place at the New Jersey Convention center and we will have our usual 10-table display.

August 17-18, 2024 at the Greenberg Train Show in Chantilly, Virginia. The show will take place at the Expo Center and we will have our usual and large selection of N Scale as well as operating display, and

September 14-15, 2024 at the N Scale Weekend in Altoona, Pennsylvania.  The show will take place at the Blair County Convention Center in Altoona, not far from the Pennsylvania Railroad’s famous “Horseshoe Curve.”

 New Arrivals:

Atlas: We are waiting for the SD45s.  Meanwhile, we have a few Dash 840Bs,a s well as a very few Dash 832-BHW Amtrak units remaining.

Broadway Limited: The Reading T1s are magnificent and nearly sold out–just 2 left.  Just a few diesels remain and we are waiting on the Union Pacific Challengers.

Kato USA:  The analog versions of the SD90MACs and AC4400Cws are in stock and selling out fast.  A few Sound/DCC UP Big Boys remain.  The Amtrak “Rainbow” 8-car passenger train set is terrific.  The set combine prototype accuracy with excellent paintwork and includes 4 Amtrak and 4 Penn Central transitional cars.  Kato is also offering complimentary E8s, including a unit in the “Day One” paintscheme.   Unitrak items are back in stock, including narrow radius track and switches.

InterMountain:  Passenger cars remain, including a good selection of Southern Pacific prototypes.   Autoracks are nearly sold out.

KATO Japan:  Turning to Kato-Built foreign train prototypes, we expect to receive a large shipment of of items within the next two weeks.  The shipment should include:  the Saphir Odoriko 8-Car Luxury Train; the E657 Series 10-car train in the Green “Revival” color; the British Great Western “Paddigton Bear” passenger train; the Tokaido Mainline train; and the “Sakura” Nagasaki and Sasebo 8-car pasenger car sets.  Swiss railroad devotees can expect arrival of the Rhaetische Bahn ABe8/12 “Allegra 3-car train, the “Bernina” passenger car sets, and the Open Panorama passenger car.  There will also be a few of the “Glacier Express” 3–Car Basic Powered Sets. as well.

The new “My Tram” Classic two-car sets arrived recently.  The set consists of two trams with one unit powered by a small coreless motor.  Available colors include blue, green, red & yellow.  Operation has been terrific on our small narrow curved layout (6′ & 7″ radius curves).  A few of the larger “My Tram units remain in Red as well as the Green “Lex Mover.”

Micro-Trains:  Our web site listing contains a large number of out-of-production runner packs and single weathered freight cars.  Individual passenger cars  and a few passenger sets are still available.

Rapido:  We eagerly await release of the Budd RDC cars in various roadnames.  In stock are a few Canadian Pacific FP9 A-Units with Sound & DCC, in the Maroon & Gray early scheme.  There is still a good selection of freight cars:  (1) Wide Vision Caboose; (2) B-40 Box Cars; (3) Procor GP20 Tank Cars; and (4) and Autoflood Coal Hoppers.  Also found a few of the first run GATX 37′ Meat Reefer 4-Car packs.  Finally, we uncovered several of the very rare BN Executive Scheme 4-Car passenger cars sets.

TRAINWORX: The Kenworth Dump Trucks are nearly sold out.  The Wood Chips cars should arrive in a few weeks.

The above narrative sums up activities since the last update.  Please remember that you always contact us and request pictures as well as video test runs of items.

Have a good summer and we look forward to hearing from you or seeing you at a show.  Best to All!

 

Update #84–January 17, 2024

A belated Happy New Year to all and we look forward to great year ahead with many new product offering and specials!

Look for us at the following shows in January and February:

(1) Amherst Railway Train Show on January 27-28, 2024 Eastern Expo Center in Springfield, Massachusetts.  We occupy Section 17 of the Better Living Building.  We will be bringing: (a) our N Scale operating display; (b) a new display of high quality N Scale foreign prototype (Japanese & European) models such as Bullet Trains; and (c) a selection of Narrow Gauge models of U.S. prototype, including brass and Blackstone.  There also will be some  N Scale and HO brass.

(2) Great Scale Model Train Show on February 3-4, 2024 at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, Maryland.  We will be in our usual location in the Center Hall.  Our selection includes  (a) U.S. prototype N Scale with a selection of SOUND-equipped models;  (b) many foreign prototype models of Japanese and European passenger trains and trams; and U.S. narrow gauge, some brass and HO items

Here is a brief update:

(1) The update of the website is nearly complete.  With the exception of the N Scale freight cars, all other sections are complete.  Please be patient as the rapid turnover of N Scale freight cars complicates our ongoing efforts.

(2) The KATO Sound/DCC Big Boys are going through the final testing in Chicago.  We should be receiving them within a few weeks.

(3) We have established a section pertaining to in-stock N Scale Sound/DCC-equipped models.

(4) A large shipment of N Scale Foreign Trains has arrived, including the 10-car Shiki-Shima and 8-Car “Seven Stars to Kyushu” luxury train sets.  These sets are selling out fast so please order now.  There are also many versions of the Shinlansen trains sets.

(5) The inventory of KATO Unitrak and PECO Code 55 Track and switches has been replenished.  There is a great selection at highly favorable prices.

(6) The Atlas Dash 8-32BWs and 8-40Bs have arrived.  The available road names, include: Amtrak and Amtrak “Pepsi” Scheme, AT&SF Red & Silver War Bonnet, Conrail, Pan American, as well as RC Corman and others.

(7) A few Kato smoothside 10-Car Passenger train sets remain in the VIA Canada, Milwaukee Road (UP Colors), and Union Pacific paintschemes.  There are also several Kato Southern Pacific 8-car Lark Sets.  Additionally, we should be receiving the Kato AMTRAK 8-car passenger and matching E-8 Units for the Springfield Show.

(8)  N Scale freight cars are available as individual items or multi car sets.  These include:  Kato 8-car Bethgon sets in Norfolk Southern, Kato Gunderson MAXI-1 Double Stack Car Sets in various road names, and Micro-Trains runner packs.  There are numerous Micro-Trains weathered cars as well as Rapido tank-car sets.

(9) Kato N Scale trams are available in many versions, including red and blue unlettered trams, Green Lex Mover, and Flowers schemes.  Kato UNITRAM track and switches should be arriving later this year; and

(10) Kato turntables are finally back in  stock.  Order now as just a few remain

 

 

Update #83–November 16, 2023

All:

While it has been some time since our last update, we have been busy and just completd our first vacation since pre-COVID  in 2019.  During October we visited Japan and toured many sites.  We had time to ride the Bullet Trains, visit the incredible Tokyo and Kyoto railways stations, as well as spend time with KATO Japan. Our visit to KATO Japan will be the subject of mode discussion in a future update.

Here is a brief synopsis of some new developments, incuding train shows.  We will be at the following shows:

November 25-26, 2023:  Greenberg Train and Toy Show at the New Jersey Convention Center in Edision, New Jersey.

December 16-17, 2023:  Greenberg Train and Toy Show at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

WEBSITE:

We are updating and making changes. Our first change has been to develop and list a special section on SOUND Locomtives in stock, including: Atlas, Broadway Limited, InterMountain Railway Company, Kato, and Rapido.  Speakng of sound models, the Kato Unon Pacific Big Boy is expected to arrive this winter.  We already have many advanced reservations but there is room for a few more customers.

The second step in upgrading the website is to develop a brief narrative to explain each of our foreign train listings.  This is impotant given the wide range of foreign train offerings, particularly fromn Japan.  We ae planning to complete this update within the next few weeks.

NEW RELEASES:

New products includes:  Atlas Dash840Bs with Lok Sound & DCC, Kato ALC42s Phase 6 (3#s), foregin trains including the 10-Car Shiki-Shima luxury train and the 8-car “Seven Stars to Kyushu.”  Thre also will be more bullet trains, Swiss railroad items, as well as steam loco models.

We wish everyone a Hapy Thanksgiving and look forward to seeing and/or meeting many of you at the Thanksgiving and Christmas Train Shows.  Best to all!

 

Update #82–September 10, 2023

Look for us on September 16-17 at the N Scale Weekend at the Blair County Convention Center in Altoona, Pennsylvania.  The meet, which is sponsored by the Altoona Association of Model Railroaders, will feature over 15 operating N Scale layouts as well as approximately 35 N Scale Vendors.  This is an “ALL N Scale” show and features outstanding models and layouts as well as out huge selection of price competitive N Scale models.

Looking forward to seeing you!

Update #81–August 10, 2023

Look for us at the following shows in August.

August 12-13, 2023:  Greenberg Train & Toy Show at the New Jersey Convention Center in Edison, New Jersey.

August 19-29, 2023: Greenberg Train & Toy Show at the Dulles Expo Center in Northern Virginia

 

Additional Kato Passenger Car Sets

Burlington Northern Smothside 10-car train (6-car set & 4-car set)

Pennsylvania Smoothside 10-car train (6-car set & 4-car set)

Union Pacific SMoothside  10-car train (6-car set & 4-car set)

Great Nothern Empire Builder Smoothside 8-car train (4-car sets “A” & “B”

 

Update #80–June 17, 2023

We have been doing some spring cleaning and have uncovered some “Old New Stock.”  The following items are new and have not been around for a very long time.   We managed to locate a case contaiing brand new Kato smoothside passenger cars in a number of roadnames.  There are several of each 10-car or 8-car sets per roadname, as well as a very few 4-car add-on sets.

Here is a listing of the items:

Kato 106012 & 106022 Milwaukee Road (Union Pacific Yellow & Gray colors) 10-car passenger train–$199.00;

Kato 106015 & 106025 VIA Rail 10-car passenger train–$199.00;

Kato 106016 & 106026 Baltimore & Ohio 10-car passenger train-$199.00;

Kato 106006 & 1061106 Southern Pacific Lark (two tone gray) 8-car passenger train$165.00; and

There are some extra 1061006 SP Lark 4-car Set “A” as well as one Baltimore & Ohio 4-car add-on set–$80.00

We also found one each of out-of-production Kato Name Trains.  The items are new and in perfect condition but the edges of the boxes are not perfect.

106075 AT&SF El Capitan 10-Car Set–$199.00

106079 Amtrak El Capitan 10-Car Set–$199.00

The June Micro-Trains releases have arrived.  We also have a good selection of weathered cars as well as runner packs. We also have restocked most Unitrak items.  Turning to foreign trains, the Swiss Rhatische Bahn 3-car Glacier Express train is back in stock.

Finally, we expect to uncover some additional items and will post these products soon!

Update #79–June 7, 2023

Just received the analog version of the Kato Union Pacific Big Boy #4014.  This is the post 2020 Tourist Version.  The model features exquisite detail, two coreless motors, and excellent paint work.  The model retails for $399..  Our sales price is $275.  Kato will release later this year versions with DCC and DCC/SOUND.  Sales are brisk so order now!

Also just arrived from Kato are the SD70Ms in the Flat Radiator version.  Kato is offering the 176-1979 Special Paint Version “We Are One,” as well as the 176-4015 Version in the UP yellow and gray.  The “We Are One” analog version lists for $160; Our sales price is $120.  The traditional UP yellow & gray version lists for $135; Our sales price is $95. 

SUMMER SHOW SCHEDULE

We will be attending the following shows in August and September 2023:

(1) August 12-13–The Greemberg Train and Toy Show at the New Jersey Convention Center in Edison, New Jersey.  We will be in our usual location in Tables F-P, along with our operating N Scale display;

(2) August 19-20–The Greenberg Train and Toy Show at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia.  We are in our usual location with our operating layourt display and

(3) September 16-17, 2023–The 2023 N Scale Weekend at the Blair County Convention Center in Altoona, Pennsylvania.  This is a pure N Scale Show featuring outstanding modelers, module layouts, dealers and products.

Update #78–May 19, 2023

Welome,

This update discusses the Kato Big Boy and recent price increases by manfacturers.

Union Pacific Big Boy:  For N Scalers 2023 is shaping up to be the “Year of the Union Pacifc Big Boy.”  Broadway Limited Imports (BLI) released ts Big Boy in January.  BLI’s features early and late versions with either coal or oil tenders, excellent detail and runs very well.  We have been running a Big Boy continuously since January and this PARAGON 4 Sound model operates very well.  There are very few left.

The analog version of the Kato Big Boy should be arriving within the next two weeks.  Kato’s model represents engine #4014 built to match the 2021 Excursion Version.  The model includes dual coreless motors.  The two independent motorotized sections allowing for a minmimun operating radius of 11″ (22″ or  282mm).  The engine comes with an oil tender as well as an operational tinted LED headlight.  Later this year, Kato will offer DCC and DCC/Sound versions of this model.

Reservations have been very strong and this model will join the Kato U.S. steam models FEF3 and GS4 Daylight as he most oustanding N Scale steam locomotives.  The list price for the Kato UP analog Big Boy is $399. Our early buy price is $275.   

Recent Price Increases:  Since 2020 manufacturers have raised their prices based on the increasing costs of raw material inputs, sharply increased shipping charges, and the need to replace and/or invest in new manufacturing equipment.  Some of these costs increases have been double barreled in terms of higher product and shipping costs.

Recent examples of product price increases include:  the Kato turntable where the list price has inceased from $295 to $420.   Additionally, all manufactuers have implemented price increases for freight cars.  Track prices aso are increasing.  A recent example has been large increases in the list prices for the Unitrak dual concrete track sets V111, V14, and V16 where prices have gone up aproximately 35-to-40 percent per set.

Our policy will be to work with you our customers.  Initially we will try to limit the price increases by providing discounts in excess of 25% on most items.  We also will maintain our policy of not adding surcharges for the use of credit cards, an area where our fees are also inceasing.  However, we will limit our inventory to more closely reflect our orders, and there will be less product available for sale at train shows.

We will provide another update over the weekend to cover other new product anouncements as well as new arrivals.

 

Update #77–March 24, 2023

All,

This has been a very busy 45 days since our last posting.  The combination of many new products, strong customer demand, and recovery from surgery has delayed our update.

We have completed updating the website.  Thank you for your patience>

Before discussing new products, our next show will be the March 11-12th Greenberg Train & Toy show at the New Jersey Expo Center in Edison New Jersey.  We will be located in the middle of the hall on Aisle 115, Tables F-P.  Look forward to seeing you this weekend.

N Scale Union Pacific Big Boys

2023 is the year of the N Scale Big Boy.  We received the Broadway Limited Imports (BLI) Big Boy and it is a very fine model.  We have been running one for over 30 hours on our display layout and it has been operated flawlessly. The Big Boy includes:  Paragon 4 Sound, DCC, and smoke.  The models are selling out fast and we have only 4 left in stock–#s 4007, 4014 and 4023.

The pilot model of the Kato Union Pacific Big Boy #4014 is impressive.  It features two coreless motors and many other refinements.  Look for the analog version to be available in April-May of this year.  The DCC and Sound Versions will be available later in 2023.

Broadway N Scale Norfolk & Western (N&W) Y6B (2-8-8-2)

BLI also released its model of the N&W Y6B articulated stram engine.  The model is beautiful and comes with Paragon 4 Sound and DCC.  Like the Big Boy, these models are selling out fast.

Kato ALC-42 Diesel & Passenger Cars

The ALC-42 is an excellent models wth great detail and superb paintwork.  Out test model has performed well.  We also have a few ALC-42 4-Car sets with or without DCC.

Amherst Railway Socitey’s Annual Springfeld Train Show

The 2023 Show was excetional and well attended with over 20,000 attendees.  Kudos to John Sacerdote and and hs colleagues for a job well done!

Update #76–January 16, 2024

The first group of Broadway Limited Imports Union Pacific Big Boys have arrived.  Our track tests show the model operating well and the Paragon Sound putting out good sound.  Sales of the model are strong.  We still have a few of #4007, 4024, 4014 Tourist Version, and 4023 (Kenefick Park Version).  The latter prototype is located in a park in Council Bluffs, Iowa which is the the starting point for the building of the Transcontinental Railroad west to Promintory Point, Utah.

Speaking of very excellent models, the Bachmann Spectrum SC44 Charger also fits the bill.  We have a few left in Amtrak Midwest and only one remaining in Amtrak Cascade.  This model is equipped with Train Control Systems (TCS) WOW Sound and has a keep alive feature as well.

Remember to look for us at the Amherst Railway Society Springfield Train Show on January 28-29th.  We are in our usual spot in the Better Living Building, Section 17.   We plan to bring our usual selection of American prototype N Scale, as well as Kato-built Japanese and European model train sets, N & HO Brass models, N Scale tram rack and tram operating units, a large number of new Rapido N Scale freight cars and our Operating Layout .  Stay tuned for more new developments.

Update #75–January 10, 2023–All Prototype U.S. N Scale Updated

Happy New Year to all!

Based on manufacturer/importer plans, 2023 figures to be a very busy year.  We are updating the web site and have completed all listings for N Scale locomotives, the passenger cars/car sets, as well as most of the Unitrak.  We will complete the foreign trains and N Scale freight cars within the next week.  Meanwhile, I will continue to add periodic updates and discuss items of mutual interest.

We look forward to seeing you on January 28-29 at the Amherst Model Railway Society’s annual show at the Eastern States Exposition Fairgrounds in Springfield, Massachusetts.  Look for us in the in the Better Living Building.  We occupy the entire Section 17!

The Bachmann N Scale Amtrak SC-44 Charger Diesels are arriving in a few days.  These models will be loaded with detail, as well as fatory equipped with TCS’ WOW Sound decoder.  We have seen the pilot models and this will be OUTSTANDING.

The Broadway Limited Union Pacific Big Boys should arrive with the next two weeks, possibly sooner.

Please stay tuned for more product updates as well new releases.

Update #74–November 13, 2022

On November 26-27, 2022, we will be attending the Greenberg Train Show at the New Jersey Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey.  We will be located in Section  115, Tables “F” through “O.”  In addition to our multi-train operating display, there will be many new products such as Kato TRAM Track Sets, more trams. Amtrak 50Th Anniversary P42s, FEF3 Greyhounds with LOK Sound & DCC, and many new foreign trains.

Update #73–November 6, 2022

All,

Here is a brief rundown of the new arrivals.  The Kato V60 North American Dual Track Tram Set is back in stock (List $240.00: Sale $180.00).  This set is a perfect fit for the new Kato Greenmover Lex Hiroden Bus and the Greenmover Lex Flower Trains.  Both models feature the new Kato mechanism as well as fabulous paintwork.  We also have back in stock the Steeple Cab Electric Locomotive painted in Orange.  This model will go around Kato’s 20-176 curved track which is 4 5/8″ radius.

Turning to Amtrak, we now have received 4 of the 5 P42s in various 5oth Anniversary paint schemes.  These are selling out fast.  A few LOK Sound-Equipped FEF3 Greyhound and SP Daylight models remain in stock  The Amtrak Charger models are expected to arrive early in 2023.  The Broadway Limited Union Pacific Big Boys should arrive around Christmas time followed by the Norfolk & western “Y” Class Mallet and the Reading T1 Northern.

Turning to passenger cars, we are running low on the Southern Pacific Daylight and the Union Pacific City of Los Angeles ssts.  A few InterMountain Centralia Car Shop cars remain, mostly in Pennsylvania, Southern Pacific, Penn Central and Illinois Central.  The Micro-Trains Pennsylvania Mail Train is selling out fast.  Finally, we are down to one Kato Amtrak Southwestern Set, one Milwaukee Road Hiawatha set, and one Santa Fe El Capitan set.

Micro-Trains weathered cars as well as the monthly new releases ae available (see Freight Car section of the website).  The Rapido Procor GP20 tank cars and the Southern Pacific B Class 50′ box cars are now in stock.   We are waiting on the Bluford Shops hoppers.

We expect to receive a small Collection of rare US and Foreign Train sets shortly.  I will post in the next few weeks.  More to follow.

NOTE:  We have updated the listings for the Kato, Atlas, Fox Valley and Broadway locos as well as the foreign trains.

Update #72–September 1, 2022

All,

Fall has arrived and with it a number of new products.  During the next two weeks, we expect to receive the following:  (1) Kato TTX 3-Car Twinstack with either Canadian Pacific or Canadian National Containers; (2) Rapido’s Southern Pacific B-1 Class 50′ box cars; (3) Micro-Trains September 2022 monthly releases, as well as runner packs; (4) Kato Amtrak 4-Car Trains with Phase V P42s and three passenger cars; and (5) additional Kato Japanese and European train sets, locos, and cars.

In addition to our participation in the September 17-18 N Scale weekend in Altoona, Pennsylvania, look for us at the following shows:  (1) October 1-2 at the Great Berea Train Show at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea, Ohio.  Thus show marks our return to Cleveland after being away  for 3 years due to COVID.  We will be in our usual location in the first building; and October 15-16 at the Great Scale Train Show at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, Maryland.

Turning to N Scale Brass.  We are running very low on products, particularly the factory upgraded GHB Pennsylvania L1 Mikadoes (2-8-2).  These L1s represent the last group that the factory upgraded with improvements to the wiring and running capacilities.  There are less than 10 units remaining.  The list price was $750. and we are still offering the last group at $350 each.  If you are a Pennsy modeler, collector, or brass operator do not miss the opportunity to acquire one of these great models.  We still both the traditional and modern versions.

Update #71–August 26, 2022

On September 17-18, 2022, we will be at the 15th Annual N Scale Weekend Altoona, Pennsylvania Convention.  The Convention will be held at the Blair County Convention Center in downtown Altoona.   There will be approximately 12 N Scale operating modular layouts.  Additionally, the convention is located just 10  minutes from the World Famous Pennsylvania Railroad Horseshoe Curve.

New arrivals include:  Kato LOK Sound-equipped GS4s in the Daylight and Black paint schemes (2 numbers each); Kato’s Japanese Sunrise Express 7-Car and 5-Car powered trains; E4 Shinkansen Max 8-Car Double Decker Set; and MicroTrains weathered cars.  We just received the Rapido Procor GP20 Tank Cars and will have by the show the Southern Pacific B-Class 50′ Box Cars.

Update #70–August 18, 2022

Look for us this weekend at the Greenberg Train & Toy Show at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia.  You can find us in Row J, Tables 4-10.   In addition to seven tables of high end, competitively price N Scale, take the time to view our operating N Scale Display which features up to 6 trains operating simultaneously.

New arrivals in the next two weeks include:  (1) Kato’s Southern Pacific GS4s in the Daylight and Black paint schemes equipped with the LOK 5 Sound Decoders; (2) Rapido’s N Scale Procor tank cars in many roadnames; (3) Micro-Trains’ August releases and weathered cars; (4) recent Kato foreign train releases, including “Super Hakuto,” 10-Car Hayabusa, and German ITC Trains; (5) InterMountain Centralia Car Shops passenger cars in many roads, and (6) many other items.

Update #69–July 29, 2022

Look for us at the following train shows in August and October:  (1) August 6-7, 2022 at the the Greenberg Train Show at the New Jersey Expo Center in Edision, New Jersey.  We will be located in the middle of the hall in Aisle 115, Tables F-P; (2) August 20-21, 2022 at the Greenberg Train Show at the Chantilly Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia, a suburb of Washington, DC; (3) October 1-2, 2022 at the Great Berea Train Show at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea, Ohio.  The Fairgrounds are located just south of Cleveland John Hopkins Airport.  We are located in the first building; and (4) October 15-16, 2022 at the Great Scale Train Show at the Maryland State Fairgounds in Timonium, Maryland.  We will be located in our customery place in the Center Hall.

New product arrivals over the past two weeks include: Rapido Procor Tank cars in many variations; new Micro-Trains freight car releases both weathered and unweathered; Bachmann Spectrum Pennsylvania streamlined K4 Pacifics with sound; Kato twin stacks with Florida East Coast or Crowley Brothers Containers on BNSF Husky Car Frames; a restock of Kato Unitrak; and the Kato German ITC trains in either 4-car or 9-car configurations.

NEW PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT–KATO ALC42 AMTRAK Charger & Superliner Passenger Cars

KATO Japan has announced release in December of this year of the Siemens ALC-42 Charger Diesel that pulls the passenger cars.  The ALC-42 Charger (Charger) is the new diesel that AMTRAK is using to replace the P42 Diesel.  KATO will offer the model as a train set (Stock Number 10-1788) with one ALC-42 Charger & a Superliner 4-Car Set.  They will also ofer a separate 6-Car Superliner set of  passenger cars (Stock #10-1789).  Finally, there will be a separate Charger Amtrak ALC-2  Day One #301 Diesel with the 50th Anniversary Logo (Stock #17736-K).

As more information becomes available, we will provide updates on prodcyt details and pricing.

Update #68–June 25, 2022

Just received the current run of InterMountain Centralia Car Shops 4-4-2 and 13 Double Bedroom Sleepers in many road names such as Pennsylvana, Union Pacific Overland, as well as many variation of the Southern Pacific (Lark, Sunset Limited, Golden State). We are selling out fast on many roads.  For more information, please see the section on “Passenger Cars.”

The Rapido Procor tank cars also arrived.  We will be listing them shortly, as well as the weathered Micro-Trains 2-packs in CSX, ex-Chessie and Louisville & Nashville.  July arrivals shall include LOK sound-equipped Kato Southern Pacific GS4s and more MAXI-IV sets in TTX with CN & CP containers.

Update #67–June 13, 2002

Kato USA has increased the prices of their boxed “M” and “V” Unitrak boxed sets.  The price increases, which are effective immediately, appear to reflect higher freight charges that Kato USA receives from its shippers.  We have absorbed part of the increase but have to pass along some of the increased charges to you our customers.

We have received and are listing other new arrivals, including:  Kato DCC-equipped SD70ACes SP Daylight and Chicago & North Western; Union Pacific E8/9 A-Units and B-Units; the 11-Car Union Pacific “City of Los Angeles” passenger train with new car numbers; and Gunderson-IV MAXI-Stack 3-Car Set BNSF Swooch with either Florida East Coast or Crowley Logistics Containers.We will listing the June Micro-trains releases shortly.  July will bring: the rerun of the popular Amtrak P42 4-car Intercity Starter Trains, as well as Gunderson MAXI-IV TTX 3-car sets in Canadian National and Caadian Pacific.   Enjoy the summer!

Update #66–May 30, 2022

Happy Memorial Day to All!

Just received and have listed InterMountain Railway Company’s N Scale 6-6-4 Sleepers in many road names.  The SP Lark, SP Sunset Limited and the Union Pacific Gray Overland are selling out fast.  In June we will recieve the 4-4-4-2 sleepers followed by the 56-Seat Coach and the 10-5 Sleepers later this summer.  The InterMountain Centralia cars feature outstanding paintwork, factory installed interiors, and battery operated lighting.

We expect to receive rom Kato later this week the following models:  the MAXI-IV 3-Car Container sets with Florida East Coast (FEC) or Crowley 53′ Containers; a rerun of the Union Pacific “City of Los Angeles” 11-car passenger train with new car numbers; matching Union Pacific E8/9 powered A-Units and B-Units; and DCC-equipped SD70ACes in Chicago & North Western, Southern Pacific Daylight & Denver & Rio Grande.  We also received a shipment of N Scale Unitrak.

The Rapido “New Look” buses just arrived.  The buses are highly accurate models of the buses that General Motors (GM) produced between 1959 and 1986 for the American and Canadian markets.  The models are equipped with illuminated headlights and brake lights.  The modeler needs to connect two wires to the power supply and watch the model come to life.  Please note that the power supply should not exceed 12 Volts DC.  Please se the N Scale Freight Car Section for more details.

Update #65–May 8, 2022

Listings of all N Scale Freight Cars have finally been updated.  Later this week, we expect to receive the following items:  May 2022 Micro-Trains new releases; Kato’s Union Pacific FEF Greyhound with pre-installed DCC; Kato SD70ACes SP Daylight & C&NW in analog version, and #8444 with DCC; and assembled Kato buildings.  More information to follow shortly

Update #64 — May 2, 2022

Just a brief update on new arrivals.  You may hve notied that we slowed down web updates over the past 4-6 weeks.  This is due to health issues within the family that have resulted in my spending additional time as a cargiver.  We apreciate your patience and understanding at this busy time.

InterMountain Railway Company:  We just received from InterMoutain Centralia Car Shops the long-awaited Eastern and Western diners.  These are beautful detailed and painted cars and will make a nice addition to your passenger consists.  Sales have been brisk and remaining cars incude:  Baltimore & Ohio, Pennsylvania 3-Stripe, Pennsylvania “Fleet of Modernism,” Southern Pacific Sunset Limited, and Southern Pacific Golden State.  InterMountain plans to release additional passenger cars during 2022.  Finally, we still have a few InterMountain autoracks remaining.

Kato US Train Models:  Beginning in late May we expect to receive over the next 3-4 months the LOK Sound Versions of the UP FEF3 Greyhounds, Southern Pacific GS4s Black and Daylight, and F7 AB sets.  The Amtrak 50Th Anniversary P42 (5 versions) should arrive late summer, as well as more MAXI-Stack train container sets and SD70ACes. Finally, with the exception of a few items on backorder we replenished, including power packs, our Unirack track inventory.

Kato Foreign Trains:  A new batch of foreign trains just arrived.  They include: the EF 81 Electric and the 10-Car Twilight Express passenger train; the Kyushu Shimkansen;  the Kyushu Shinkansen 800 Series 6- Car Train; and the Chizu Super Hakuto 6-Car Train.  The paint and decoration the the Super Hakuto is outstandng!  We exprect to receive from Kato a series of built-up modern Japanese buildings; more Swiss Rhatissche Bahn and German trains; aswell as Japanese Shikansen sets.  Good news is that we have been able to restock the moden trams in red & blue.  These models are very simlar to the modern trams that operate in many American cities.

Rapido:  Waiting to receive the F40PH locos that pulled the VIA “Canadian” trains.  Also, buses, tank cars and other freight cars are due soon.

North Coast Electroncs and Digitrax:  We have a good selection of most items.

Until next month

Update #63 — April 14, 2022

Happy Easter & Passover to All!

Please excuse the delay in posting a new update but we have been busy with taxes and an illness in the family requiring surgery and a lengthy convalescence by a family member.   Meanwhile, we appreciate your patience as we update the website.

Many items have been sold and there have been new arrivals as well.  At this point, the sections on: Foreign Trains European and Japanese, US passenger cars, Atlas, Broadway Limited, Rapido,  and HO & O scale Brass are updated.  We plan to update the Kato locomotives as well as the Micro-Trains Freight Cars next.

Happy Holidays to All!

Update #62–February 20, 2022

Happy “President’s Day Weekend” to All!

We are nearly caught up with identfying old inventory and processing in and testing new products.  Appreciate your patience and understanding as we go through this process.

Inventory & Website:  We have updated the web site in the following areas:  N Scale Diesel and Steam Locomotives; passenger cars; starter sets; track; HO & N Scale brass models; and most new arrivals.  We are now working on Freign Trains and N Scale Freight cars and should be done within the week.

New Arrivals:  We now have in stock the following items:  Kato Union Pacific Greyhound and SP Daylight and Black Northerns with DCC; Kato F7 DCC-equipped  AB set in B&O, Milwaukee Road, SP Black Widow and Union Pacific.  We have been resupplied with Kato SP Daylight 10-Car and UP 7-Car passenger train sets.  The Micro-Trains Pennsylvania Railroad 8-Car Mail Express Set have arrived and going out fast.  This is a must have set for you Pennsylvania Fans.  Turning to foreign trains, the Kato models of the Taiwan Shikansen Nozomi as well as the Japanese Shinkansen E2 & E3 sets are here.  We ae running low on the Swiss Rhatische Bahn and Thales PBKA sets as well.

Passenger cars continue to sell well.  The Kato Pennsylvania Broadway Limited is now sold out and only one New York Central Twentieeth Cetury Set remains. Additionally, there are only two Santa Fe Super Chief and three El Capitan sets still available.  We also have one Rapido early Canadian Pacific (Maroon & Gray) 10-car set left.

We plan to attend two shows in March and early April:

(1) March 12-13, 2022–The Greenberg Train Show at the New Jersey Convention Center in Edison, New Jersey; and

(2) April 2-3, 2022–The Great Scale Train Show at the State Fairgrounds in Timonium, Maryland.

Update #61–February 13, 2022

All–We have been extraordinarily busy the past several months.  Let’s begin by thanking many of you who attended the recent show at Amherst, Springfield and Timonium.  It was great to renew contact after two years, and we look to the future with optimism and many exciting new developments.

This update will be long and detailed  in several segments. First we receive many request for sound-equipped N Scale locomotives.  The following is a listing by manufactuterer/importer of sound unit currently in stock.

Atlas Model Railroading Sound-Equipped/DCC Diesels

40003979 SD60 EMDX #9077, LOK Sound/DCC–List $280.00; Sale $180.00 (Last 1)

40003987 SD60E Norfolk SOuthern #6952,LOK Sound/DCC–List $280.00; Sale $180.00

40003988 SD60E Norfolk Southern #6988. LOK Sound/DCC–List $280.00; Sale $180.00

40003989 SD60E Norfolk Southern #6920 “Honoring Our Veterans” LOK Sound/DCC–List $280.00; Sale $180.00 (2 left)

40003990 SD60E Norfolk SOuthern #6963 “GORail”, LOK Sound/DCC–List $280.00; Sale $180.00

40003991 SD60E Norfolk Southern #911 “Honoring First Responders” LOK Sound/DCC–List $280.00; Sale $180.00 (2 left)

 

Broadway Limited Sound-Equipped/DCC  Diesels

451 ALCO PA/PB/PA Denver & Rio Grande, #600-1,600-2-600/3, Original Version in Silver with Yellow Nose Stripes.  Set includes two powered A-Units with Paragon 2 S0und/DCC and an unpowered B-Unit– List $495.00; Regular Price $395.00; SUPER SALE PRICE $310.00

3205 ALCO PA DEMO A-Unit #9077 with Paragon 2 Sound/DCC–List $220.00; Sale $120.00

3206 ALCO PA DEMO A-Unit #9078 with Paragon 2 Sound/DCC–List $220.00; Sale $120.00

3224 EMD E7 A-Unit Chicago, Burlington & Quincy #9917B Silver, Paragon 2 Sound/DCC–List $220.00; Sale $130.00

3235 EMD E7 B-Unit Union Pacific “City of Los Angeles” Powered with Paragon 2 Sound/DCC–List $220.00; Sale $120.00

3382 ALCO PA/PB SP #6005A/6005B, A Powered with Paragon 2 Sound/DCC, B Unpowered in Daylight Paint  Scheme–List $330.00; Sale $200.00

3393 ALCO PB SP Daylight #605C B Powered w/Paragon 2 Sound/DCC–List $230.00; Sale $160.00

3394 ALCO PB SP Daylight #6007 B Powered w/Paragon 2 Sound/DCC–List $230.00; Sale $160.00

3461 EMD SD70ACe, Norfolk SOuthern #1112, Paragon 3 Sound-/DCC–List $299.95; Sale $180.00

3590 EMD Seaboard Airline A-Unit, 3015, Orange, Green & Yellow, Paragon 3 Sound/DCC–List $240.00; Sale $150.00

3608 EMD Southern Pacific B-Unit, 6002C, Red & Silver, Paragon 3 Sound/DCC (have 2 Units)–List $240.00 per unit; Sale $120.00 per unit

3623 EMD E8 A-Unit Pensylvania #4251 Paragon 3 Sound/DCC, Tuscan with Single Stripe–List $250.00; Sale $180.00

3866 EMD NW2 Switcher Pennsylvania #9247, Paragon 3 Sound/DCC–List $230.00; Sale $175.00

6214 EMD SD40-2, Norfolk Southern 1627, Paragon 4 Sound/DCC–List $260.00; Sale $200.00

6215 EMD SD40-2 Norfolk SOuthern 1629, Paragon 4 Sound/DCC–List $260.00; Sale $200.00

Broadway Limited Sound-Equipped/DCC  Steam Locomotives

3286 Pennsylvania T1 Duplex 4-4-4-4 #5506, Paragon 3 Sound/DCC–List $399.95; Sale $240.00

3288 Pennsylvania T1 Duplex 4-4-4-4 #5528  , Paragon 3 Sound/DCC–List $399.95; Sale $240.00

3289 Pennsylvania T1 Duplex 4-4-4-4 #5533, Paragon 3 Sound/DCC–$399.95; Sale $240.00

3290 Pennsylvania T1 Duplex 4-4-4-4 #5539  , Paragon 3 Sound/DCC–$399.95; Sale $240.00

5980 PennsylvaniaUSRA Light Mikao (2-8-2) #9627, Paragon 3 Sound/DCC– List $350.00; Sale $250.00

6225 Baltimore & Ohio USRA Heavy Pacific (4-6-2)  #5314 “Prsident Lincoln”, Green, Paragon 3 Sound/DCC–List $350.00; Sale $260.00

Kato Sound-Equipped/DCC Diesels

176-4959-LS SD40-2 w/LOK Sound/DCC NS Maersk #3329–List $325.00; Sale $260.00

176-8412-LS  SD70ACe w/LOK Sound/DCC Union Pacific “Powering Our People” #1111–List $325.00; Sale $260.00

76-8514-LS SD70ACe w/LOK Sound/DCC Norfolk Southern #1030–List $335.00; Sale $260.00 (Last 1)

Kato LOK Sound/DCC Equipped Steam Locomotives

126-0402LS w/LOK Sound/DCC Union Pacific “Freight Version” #838–List $475.00; Sale $380.00

DUE March 2022–Nearly Fully Resrved–Reserve NOW!

Southern Pacific Lines Daylight #s 4449 & 4453

Southern Pacific Black Postwar #s 4454 & 4453

Union Pacific Greyhound #8444

 

Update #60–December 28, 2021

All–We are reaching the end of 2021 and this is a short update.  Here is the latest news:

We just received the Kato analog GS4s in Daylight and Black, as well as SD70ACes in D&RGW and MKT.  The Micro-Trains weathered NS 3-packs and CP 2-packs have arrived and are going out very fast as are the individual weathered CSX Heritage freight cars.  The Broadway Pennsylvania P5s should arrive shortly, as well as the InterMountain auto racks.  We expect a resupply of NCE DCC & Sound Systems, parts and accessories early in the New Year

Inventory Heads Up–Sales have been very strong and we are sold out of the following items:

Kato 102-6485 Amtrak P42 4-Unit Powered Set; Kato MAXISTACK  4 Sets in Maersk, CSX, ONE, BNSF, Kato VRE 4-Car Unit powered Set, Kato 10-504-3 U.S. Orange Steeple Cab Loco, Kato Left Hand Tram Switch 40-21o and 40-101 Curved Tram Track Section, Hanover-Hiroshima Tram, Milwaukee Road FP-7 Analog Diesels, Union Pacific “City of Los Angeles” and “California Zephyr” passenger car sets, Atlas NS & Pensy GP30s, Rapido CP Rail Action Red Passnger Car Sets.

We are down to the last 2-3 ot each of the following items so order now to avoid missing out.

Kato Passenger  Car Sets: Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe “Super Chief” 8-Car passnger trains et; Kato Broadway Limited 10-Car Set; Kato New York Central 20th Century 9-Car Set, and Kato Santa Fe El Capitan 10-car set.

Atlas Trainman:  Chesapeake & Ohio 5-Car set–all other sets sold out.

Micro-Trains:  Santa Fe Mail Baggage Set 12-car set; ACL 5-car set; Denver & Rio Grande 5-car set, and Northern Pacific 5-car set.

Rapido “Canadian”:  several Canadian Pacific Maroon & Gran 10-car sets and 1 VIA 10-car set.  One CP Rail Action Red FP-9 A Set with LOK Sound/DCC is left.

Kato Christmas Trains–a 6-unit set with DCC and a 4-unit set with DCC.

Kato VRE–several 5 & 6 car sets with F40PH lcocos

Kato Amtrak 50th Anniversary Set P42 with DCC

2 Kato New York Central E7 AA Sets

Several pieces Kato MAXI-STACK Pacer 3-Unit sets in two roadnumbers

Update #59–November 21, 2021

All–Before discussing developments in N Scale, we would like to remind you to look for us at the Greenberg’s Great Train & Toy Show (hereafter Greenberg Show) this coming weekend — November 27-28, 2021.  The Greenberg Show will be held at the New Jersey Covention and Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey.  We are located in Row DD, Tables 2-10.  For this show, we are bringing Two (repeat TWO) Operating Layouts, including:  (1) the large 3.5′ x 7′ operating layout with 6 mainline loops of tracks and two trolley lines; and (2) our small narow radius layout that allows for the operation of up to 3 steeple cab, trolley, and tram lines at one time.   You will be able to watch N Scale trains go aroud 9″, 12″ and 14″ curves, as well as the larger trains going around much bigger curves.

N Scale Big Boy:

Broadway Limited Imports (Broadway) has announced plans to release an N Scale Big Boy late in 2022.   The model will feature Paragon 4 Sound and SMOKE  Broadway will offfer the Big Boy in several versions as well as a number of paint schemes.  There will be:  (1) the “as released” 1941 versions #s4007 & 4012; (2) the 1944 “updated version #s4021-4022; (3) the modern and earlier #4014 versions “Big Boy Tour Excursion”  and “Promontory Excursion”; and (4), and a fantasy paint two-tone gray model #4024.

We are looking at this time at an approimate list price of $600.  This could translate into a sales price of approximately $470-$480 per model.  Quantities will be limited and are being allocated to dealers so reserve now.

 

Update #58–November 13, 2021

All–Here is a listing of Kato-built U.S. Trams, as well as European and Japense trains which just arrived, including:

(1) 14-805-1 & 14-805-2 “My Tram” in blue & red, respectively.  The trams are painted but not lettered.  They are three section trams very similar to the Green Lex Mover and incorporate the new Kato “coreless” motor mechanism.  They are utstanding operators and are very similar to some of the trams now operating in U.S. cities.

(2) The early version of the Japanese C57 4-6-2 (Item 2024) is factory painted and runs very well.

(3) We have a restock of the long gray flat cars that carry containers on JR and other Japanese roads.  This offering is available as a two-pack (10-1431) or a 10-car set (10-1432) for those who like to run longer trains.

(4) The last Japaense offering is the Series 101 Shinkansen “Grand Hikari” 16-car passenger train.  It is painted blue with white stripes and includes 4 double deck cars which is a rarity for Shinkansen passnger trains–Items 10-354/10-355 & 10-1213.

(4) The powered Ge4/4 III Glacier Express Loco is now available in the very colorful “UNESCO” paintscheme (Item 3103-3, and

(5) The GE Glacier Express Loco can pull passenger car trains consisting of 4 (10-1413) or 8-car (10-1413 & 1414) Rhatische Bahn EW1 Red passnger Car Trains.  A separate luggage car is also avilable (Iem 54279-1)

 

Update #58–November 11, 2021

All–Here is the latest news!

N Scale Big Boy:  Kato will release a Union Pacific Big Boy (4-8-8-4) early in 2023.  We have limited information at this time but it appears that the release will be a model of the #4014 recently rebuilt for excursion service with an oil tender.  The model will be offered in the analog, DCC, and LOK Sound DCC versions.  We will update you as we receive more information such as stock numbers, pricing, release date, as well as technical specs on the model.

Just Arrived or Arriving:

–The analog versions of the Kato Amtrak P42 Phase Late #s 60 & 169; and 50th Anniversary P42 #46.  Digital versions due in several weeks.

–New roadnumbers for the Amtrak Viewiner II Baggage Cars Phase III Heritage #s 61015 & 61024

–Broadway Limited SD40-2 High Nose Version in:  Norfolk Western, Norfolk Southern, and Southern.  Two numbers per roadname.

–Brass–The last of the GHB Pennsylvania Railroad L1 Mikadoes (2-8-2)are available in the traditional and modern versions.  These new models are factory painted and rebuilt, and run very well.  When released these models carried a list price of $750-.  We are still ofering them models at the “SPECIAL SALES PRICE” of $350- plus shipping.   There are approximately 5-6 models remaining in stock.

–November Micro-Trains releases arriving within 1-2 days.

Update #57–November 6, 2021

All–We have competed updating most of out website with the exception of structures.  We will continue to update the freight car section as quickly as possible given how quickly we sell out of various Micro-Trains and Atlas cars.

New Product Announcements:  Kato USA will release early in 2022 another run of the outstanding the Union Pacific’s “City of Los Angeles (COLA)” 11-car passenger train as well as complimentary E8/9 A-Units and B-Units.  The COLA represents one of Kato’s most accurate and finest passenger car releases to date, and sells out very quickly.  Also, here is the chance for modelers who may have missed it in the past to acquire LOK Sound-Equipped E8/9 motive power to run your trains.

Micro-Trains:  The November 2021 new cars should arrive within the week and include:

#092-44-490 CSC Family #2–CSXT/exWM 2-Bay Hopper–going fast!

#181-00-200 Chesapeake & Ohio 50′ Box Car #22823.

#065-000-226 Sweet Liquids #9 Sugar Refining 39′ Tank Car #25.

#s 108-00-431 & 108-00-432 CSX 3 Bay Hopper Toppers, yellow with black tops.

#180-00-350 Conrail 50′ Box Car #208875.

#058-00-005 Northern Refrigertator Car Comapny “Pet Milk” 40′ Double Wood Sheath Reefer.

#993-00-183 Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe 4-Pack of 40′ Steel Ice Reefers and

#499-45956 Sheriff Humvee Vehical 2-Pack.

Other Releases:

We expect to receive by Thanksgiving, if not sooner, the Kato Southern Pacific and Union Pacific F7 AB sets followed by the Amtrak P42 locomotives, including the 50th Anniversary edition.   The remaining Rapido FP9s followed by the F40PHs should be here soon.  Turning to passenger cars, the Micro-Trains Pennsylvania Mail Car Set and the Illinois Central #2 heavyweight pasenger car sets are due by the holidays.

Finally, we are always willing to send on your request pictures or videos (where possible) of items on this website.  Just make a  request.  Best to All!

Update #56–October 29, 2021

Micro-Trains New Arrivals:

Very Limited Quantities remain of the following:

#094-44-720 CSX, ex B&O 3-Bat Covered Hopper w/Elongated Hatches #255614. This is the first car in a series of “CSX Heritage” freight cars (see Freight Car Section on Weathered Cars).

#102-00-170 Micro-Mouse 2021 Christmas Car (See Freight Car Section 60′ Excess Height Double Plug Door Cars)

#109-00-093 Southern Pacific Depressed-Center Flat Car w/Load

#993-02-190 Dog Food Reefer Two-Pack (See Freight Car Section–40′ Reefers)

#993-05-940 Virginia Railway Weathered 2-Pack of 33′ Twin Bay Hoppers (See Freight Car Sections–Hoppers or Weathered Cars)

#993–05-970 Southern Pacific, ex-Golden West 2-Pack of Weathered 3 Bay Hoppers with Elongated Hatches & SP Patches (See Freight Car Ections–Hoppers or Weathered Cars) and

#123-00-060 TTX :On Track For A Cure” Pink Cancer Awareness Special 60′ Excess Height Double Plug Door Box Car

NOTE 10/31/21:  The N Scale “Freight Cars” section has been updated and includes September & October 2021 releases.  

Update #55–October 27, 2021

Just a few brief notes.

Pre-Order:  We have opened our pre-order section and listed many forthcoming releases from Kato, Micro-Trains & Rapido.  More entries will be listed shortly.

Narrow Gauge Collections:  There a large number of recent arrivals in both On3 and SN3.  Models are like new and many feaure either Tsunami or PFM sound.  There is also a rather large listing of new, unopened ready-to-run San Juan Car Company On3 freight cars.

“Closeout Sales”:  We just started listing N Scale specials including Micro-Trains “Thomas Kinkade” special cars and some N Scale brass basket cases.  Many of the later appear to have little use and require some fine tuning.  We are too busy to fix and so they are being offered at very low prices.  This is a good oportunity for those with the skills to repair brass models to save on the specials.   We will list more later ths week.

PECO Code 55 N Scale Track:  We are carrrying this outstanding scale track in our “Track Section.”  There is a large seection at very competitive prices.

Rare N Scale Brass:  We have one of the latest run Key Imports Custom Series #125 Factory Painted Southern Pacific Lines MT4 Mountain Class (4-8-2) models.  The model is painted black and numbered 4363.  It represents the Mountain District.  The model is in excellent plus conditions and sells for $895.  We use the term excellent plus because the model has been test run a little bit.

There are a few Southern Pacific brass locomotives left, including  Factory Painted:  AC12 Cab Forward #4294; AC10 Cab Forward last run; 2 Southern Pacific Daylight GS4s last run.  There is also one Mint unpainted Southern Pacific MT1.

Rapido “Canadian”:  A few FP9s with LOK Sound & DCC remain in Canadian Pacific Block Lettering, Script Lettering, and VIA.  The F40PHs have been delayed but should arrive towards the end of the year.

Kato:  The German Version of the Thalys PBKA 10-Car set just arrived as have more Trams, including the Pocket Tram 2-Car Set.

The LOK Sound-Equipped SD70ACes in Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific “Powered By Our People” are now in stock.

The Southern Pacific and Union Pacific F& AB sets are due sometime in November to be followed in December with the Baltimore & Ohio and Milwaukee Road sets.

Update #54–October 19, 2021

Just a brier update on developments.

Pre-Orders for N Scale Items:

There are listings for the Kato F7 AB sets and Black GS4s.  New listings will be added shortly covering more Kato items, Rapido, and Micro-Trains.  If you are interested please reseve now as we are nearly full on advance reservations, particularly LOK Sound-equipped models such as SP GS4s ad the Greyhound FEF3.

Narrow Gauge  Collections

We received several Narrow Gauge Collections and have updated the sections covering On3 and Sn3.  These collections include some very nice Precision Scale On3 Hybrids with Tsunami Sound, On3 logging equipment from Overland Models and The Car Works, and a large number of new ready-to-run San Juan Car Shop freight cars.  The Sn3 Collection contains may beautiful items, including a large selection of PBL Denver & Rio Grande and Rio Grande Southern locos.  There are at least 6 outstanding painted cabeese from Overland. PBL, and PFM, as well as a number of new unopeed structure kits.

New N Scale Arrivals

Just received the Kato Thalys 10-car PBKA German Train.  This set can be combined with the first version of the Thalys PBA to make a 20-car super train.  We are nearly sold out of the Odoriko 8-car Luxury Train, the C57 2-8-0 Steam Locomotive, and several versions of the Shinkansin trains.  The next arrivals will be the Kato F7 AB freight locomotives followed by the Southern Pacific Postwar Black GS-4 (4-8-4), and then the Amtrak p42s, including the 50th Anniversary P42 model.

The Sound & DCC equipped Rapido F40PHs  for the “Canadian” are due in November.  A very few Sound-equipped FP9 A-Units are in stock.  Look for the Horizon and Comet cars very soon.

The first of the Micro-Trains “CSX Heritage Series” is now arriving with the initial car being a weathered CSX ex-B&O 3-Bay Hopper.  The Pennsylvania 10-Car Mail Train is due in December.  Note:  We sold out of the October Micro-Trains releases the day after they arived.  Please reserve now to avoid disappointment later.  Finally, a few Amtrak 50th Anniversary Heavyweight Business Car and BNSF 25th Anniversary 60′ Excess Height Box Cars remain for sale.

 

Update #53–October 11, 2021

All–This is a brief update on new developments and some additions to the website.

Before discussing these developments, I just wanted to review current shipping and pricing issues.  The massive delays at U.S. ports combined with large increases in container rates continues to impact on the supply and prices for model railroad products.  Items are arriving later than anticipated and often with prices increases relating to the product as well as the cost of freight.  We are addressing these developments by moderately sharing the increases with our customers.  Generally, we hold the line on prices for most existing inventory.  However, we increase the price when replacing items at higher prices.  This is particularly relevant for Kato Unitrak and Starter Sets so please do not hesitate to purchase these items now and save!

WEBSITE:  We also are adding new sections to this website, including listings for:  (1) On3 and SN3 Narrow Gauge items arriving as part of collections; (2) advance reservations for new products; and (3) a section for special sale items. These sections are now under development and new products are being added this month and in the future.

SHOWS:

Over the past six weeks, we attended a number of model train shows, most recently the October Scale Show at Timonium, Maryland.  Weather allowing, attendance at most shows has been very good and customers are taking the appropriate safegards to address COVID.  We will be attending the following train shows in November and December 2021, and January-February 2022:

November 27-28–Greenberg’s Great Train & Toy Show at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey.

December 18-19–Greenberg’s Great Train & Toy Show at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia 

January 29-30, 2022–Amherst Railway Society’s Railroad Hobby Show at the Eastern States Exposition Center in West Springfield, Massachusetts.  We will be in our usual location in “SECTION 17” of the Better Living Center Building         

February 5-6. 2022–Great Scale Model Train and Railroad Collectors Show, Maryland State Fair, 2200 York Road, Timonium, Maryland, Cow Palace, Center Hall, Front Area, Tables 1-12.

NEW PRODUCTS

Rapido: We just received the FP9s for the Canadian.  All of our remaining units are equipped with DCC and LOK Sound.  The F40PHs are due within the next 30 days.  We still have a few 10-Car sets for the Canadian in the CP original maroon & gray and one VIA set.  Note:  The remaining Rapido Canadian FP9s and Passenger Car sets are list in the section “Kato Passenger Cars and Rapido “Canadian” and FP9s & Passenger Car Sets.”

Kato US:  The SP and UP F7 AB sets are due this month followed by the B&O and Milwaukee Road sets.  Look for the SP GS4 in black sometime in December followed by the Daylight GS4s and passenger car 10-car sets early in 2022. We will have a few GS4s with LOK Sound.  Additionally, there is still a good selection of MAXI-Stack car sets avaialble.

Trams:  The small “Hanover-Hiroshima” tram, the modern Green Lex Tram, and the Steeple Cab ae all available.  All units are equipped with the new Kato coreless motor mechanism and run superbly.  Also just received the 2-unit Pocket Train Tram Set which includes powered & unpowered trams.

Foreign Trains/Starter Sets:  The Shinkansin Nozomi, Dr. Yellow, and the Swiss Train are in stock.  Various TGV sets and the 10-car Thalys PBA are also in stock.  The German version of the PBA has just arrived.   We have several of the Mizukazi and Odoriko Luxury trains in stock.  The Taiwan version of the Shinkansin Nozomi 700 high speed train is due in November-December.  There will be only 50 sets imported into the United States.

Micro-Trains:  The October monthly cars will arrive this week and include the first of the “Chessie System” series of cars.  We still have a good supply of weathered cars and runner packs for CSX and Norfolk Southern, as well as 5-car heavyweight passenger car sets for ACL, Cotton Belt Daylight, Denver & Rio Grande, Northern Pacific, and Santa Fe Mail Train.  The Pennsylvania 10- Car Mail train is due in December.

PECO CODE 55 N SCALE TRACK:  National Capital Trains is adding this outstanding track product line to our N Scale inventory.  The track eatures outstanding detail, rugged construction and is easy to install on your layout.  This track is great for scale modelers who prefer the look of smaller rail on a permanent layout.  Look for more details shortly as well as “Special Introductory Prices” for this fine product.  This track is well made, easy to use, and very durabe.  Please check our “Track Section” for product listing and special prices.

 

Update #52–July 24, 2021

All–The summer is going by rapidly and we are getting ready to attend our first train shows since March 2020.  Beginning in two weeks we will be at the following shows with our Operating N Scale Layout:

August 7-8 2021–Greenberg’s Great Train & Toy Show, Fredericksburg Expo Center, Fredericksburg, Virginia:  Row G, Tables 1-7.

August 14-15, 2021–Greenberg’s Great Train & Toy Show, New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, Edison, NJ, Row U, Tables 1-7.

October 2-3, 2021–Great Scale Model Train and Railroad Collectors Show, Maryland State Fair, 2200 York Toad, Timonium Maryland, Cow Palace, Center Hall, Front Area, Tables 1-12.

We are receiving new products on nearly a weekly basis.  Recent arrivals include:  Kato SD70M analog & digital in CSX and Southern Pacific Bloddy Nose; Kato’s Bethgon Coalporter 8-Packs in CSX, NS, UP and soon CN; Kato’s spectacular Saphir Odoriko 8-Car Japanese Luxury Train; the Narita Express 6-car set; Atlas’ articulated Auto Carrier 2-Car Sets in NS & UP; a few Rapido “Canadian” 10-car sets in CP Early Maroon & Gray and VIA; a large number of Micro-Trains runner packs as well as weathered cars.

In August, the following items are expected to arrive:  Kato ES44ACs in BNSF and UP; Amtrak Viewliner II baggage cars with new road numbers, the N Scale Flexible Track System; British 5-car express train sets; Atlas freight cars; Micro-Trains runner packs and new releases of freight and heavyweight passenger cars.

We have a large number of Starter Sets for those interested in getting started in N Scale or looking to purchase a set for a family member for the Holidays.  Our starter sets are offered complete with locomotive, cars, track and power supply.

The following sets are currently in stock:

American Prototype: Amtrak P42 Phase V 4-Car Set; Kato Siemens ACS Amfleert I 5-Car Set; CB&Q Silver Streak Streamliner 6-Car Set; Virginia Railway Express 4-Car Set; Chicago & North Western Metra Bi-Level Gallery 4-Car Set; Kato’s Operation North Pole Christmas 6-Car Set in analog or DCC; & Chicago & Northwestern “400” 6-Car Set in Digital.

Foreign Prorotype:  Swiss Glacier Express Train; Shinkansen Nozomi “700” 4-Car Set; Dr. Yellow Shinkansen 3-Car or 7-Car Test Train; and Japanese Steam Train with Passenger Cars

Look forward toseeng may of you at the forthcomming train shows!

Update #51–May 29, 2021

All–We enter the summer months fully active and waiting to receive many new products.

Before we review some of the new arrivals, I want to inform you that we will be participatig in several virtual train shows during the first two weeks of June.  On Wednesday evening June 2, we will participate in a Zoom Meeting hosted by NewTracksModeling.  We will discuss all aspects of N Scale from “Getting Started in N” to providing an overview of National Capital Trains and our display layout.  For information on registration, go to NewTracksModeling.com.

On June 9, 2021, we will particpate in the Amherst Railway Society’s virtual Railway Hobby Show (vRHS).   We will provide an approximately 10 minute video presentation that reviews new developments in N Scale with emphasis on new products and post-COVID-19 trends in the hobby.  For those of you familiar with the Amherst Railway Society, they produce the outstanding Springfield Train Show each January and particpate actively in the model rairoad hobby through many contributions.  For more information on this event go to www.railroadhobbyshow.com

I look forward to visting with you at these shows and exchanging information on our hobby.

Rapido–Just received the last Canadian Pacific 10-car sets in the 1950-60s Maroon & Gray and the VIA first generation colors.  The matching FP9 diesels with sound & DCC should arrive this summer.  Look for the Rapido buses and Comet passenger cars sometime this fall.  We still have a few BNSF 4-Car Exceutive Scheme sets as well as Osgood Bradley single can 4-car sets in Canadian National, Seaborad, Cotton Belt Daylight, and SP 2-tone gray.   There also 3 Skyline 500 Domes remaining painted for Delaware & Hudson.

Micro-Trains–The May weathered cars, Penn Central 2-pack and D&RGW 4-pack of 50′ box cars, are selling out fast.  The non-weathered May 2021 releases are just about sold out.  We will announce the June 2021 release next week.

Kato–June brings release of the following:  a rerun of the Union Pacific 7-Car Excursion Set; 8-car Bethgon Coal Porter sets in CSX, BNSF, and Canadian National; EMD SD70Ms flat radiator version in CSX and Southern Pacific; and more Chicago Metra Bi-Level cars.   The Southern Pacific GS-4 Black postwar version and the Flexible Track System and accessories should arrive sometime this summer. We still have a few of both numbers of the Maersk and BNSF 5-car sets.

Update #50–May 5, 2021

All,

Welcome to our 50th Update!  The following is a brief review of new products and recent developments in N Scale.

Rapido–The “Canadian” 10-car passenger car sets and add-on cars have arrived and pretty much disappeared.  In over 30 years selling N passenger trains, these are the best cars bar none.  They even compare favorably with much more expensive HO cars in terms of accuracy to prototype as well as detail.

Here is what remains:

1 each “Canadian” 10-Car Sets Maroon & Gray

1 CP Action Red 10-Car Set 2nd Number

1 VIA 10-Car Original Set and 1 VIA 10-car Set HEP Modern

Miscellaneous 3-Car Add-On Sets CP Action Red and VIA, and

Skykine 500 Dome Cars, CP Action Red, VIA Original and Modern, and Delaware & Hudson

The matching FP-9 diesels with LOK Sound/DCC ae due within a  few months.   The bottom line is that the pasenger cars are nearly history; so if you would like a set, contact us ASAP!

Atlas–We sold thought our first batch of Enclosed Articulated Auto Carriers.  We will receivb a resupply within a few days.  There will be Santa Fe (4#s); Norfolk Southern 6-7 numbers, and BTTX and TOAX Leasing.  We are also down to our last ten 53′ rebuilt well cars.

Broadway Limited:  The USRA Pacifics (4-6-2) steam locos with Paragon 3 Sound are nearly sold out.  We have remaining: 1 each Baltimore & Ohio President Lincoln in the Green Paintscheme; and one each Southern.  We are running low on the following Broadweay Steam locos:

1 M1A Pennsylvania Mountain with Sound/DCC

1 USRA Light Mikado Pennsylvania Sound /DCC

8 Pennsylvania T1 Duplex (3#s)

Other Broadway:  A few sets of P70 coaches & single cars without airconditioning, as well as a few first run chemical tank cars.

Kato:  

Sold out of California Zephyr and Union Pacific City of Los Angeles passenger car sets

1 Union Pacific E8/9 ABBA set with TCS DCC to be available

4 Union Pacific 7-Car Excursion Sets

2 Southern Pacific Daylight 10-Car sets

MAXI Stack-1 Maersk 5-Car Sets (2#s) and Union Pacific Bethgon 8-Car sets now in stock

SD40-2s Maersk; Burlington Northern, and Santa Fe available in Analog or DCC

 

Micro-Trains

The May 2021 new releases will be here in a few days. The weathered 3-packs of Norfolk Southern (ex-Southern) Airslide hoppers are now available as well as a number of other weathered cars and car sets.

We have the following heavyweight passenger car trains:  Union Pacific Havyweight Two-Tone Gray 10-Car Set; Norhtern Pacific Two-Tone Green 8-Car Set; and one Southern 9-Car Sets.  There are also a number of 5-Car sets in Cotton Belt-Daylight; Denver & Rio Grande, and the very rare Santa Fe 12-Car Fast Mail Train.

Update #49–April 4, 2021

As we head into the spring, Model Railroading activity continues at a brisk pace.  Before we provide update stock and new products, you should know that we are participating in the April 17, 2021 World’s Greatest Hobby Virtual Train Show.  Our virtual booth will include several video presentations discussing National Capital Trains, displaying our business outlet and operating layout; and reviewing new and interesting products.  Most important, we will be live to meet you virtually, answer your questions and fill orders.  Look for our show special!  Please check this page next week for additional details.

Here is a brief update on availability of items in short supply.

Kato Passenger Car Sets

California Zephyr and Union Pacific City of Los Angeles–SOLD OUT

Southern Pacific Daylight 10-Car set–3 sets

New York Central 9-Car set–3 sets

New York Central 4-Car Set–2 sets

Milwaukee Road Hiawatha 9-Car Set–3 sets

Southern Railroad Corrugated 8-Car Passenger Car Sets–2 sets

Southern Pacific GS-4 Black with DCC–1 left

Broadway Limited Pennsylvania 4-8-2 w/Paragon 3 Sound & DCC–2 left

Bachmann Norfolk & Western J 4-8-4 with Sound–1 left

Union Pacific E8/9–1 ABA set with DCC & several E8/9 B-Units

 

New Arrivals–in stock or due April-May 2021

Kato SD40-2s Mid-Production Maersk with Norfolk Southern LOGO; AT&SF; and Burlington Northern–Analog or DCC

MAXI Twinstacks 5-Car Sets–Maersk-two different sets; BNSF MAXI Twinstacks 5-Car Sets–May

Virginia Railway Express–more F40PHs, starter sets, and special 5-car sets

Union Pacific 8-Car Bethgon Coal Porter Sets

Micro-Trains–March weathered cars and April 2021 New Releases; More CSX 4-Car Gondola Runner Packs and Tie Loader 3-Packs

Atlas;  A few NS SD60Es Norfol Southern Available in analog or Lok/Sound & DCC

Rapido–soon “Canadian” 10-Car Passenger Trains and add-on sets followed by FP9s with LOK SOund & DCC

Kato Japanese Trains:  10-1538/1539 “415-100 Series” Kyushu Color 8-Car Set; 10-1647/1648/1649 Tobu “8000 Series” 10-Car Set

Coming soon:  Kato Saphire Train “E261” 10-1644 and 10-1661 & 10-1662 Saphir ODORIKO streamline tour express trains

 

Jacksonville Terminal Containers

We are now selling thier cotnainers.  Please check our N Scale Freight Car Section for more details.  Note that our initial listing will be found adjacent ot the Micro-Trains isting of Containers.

 

Update #48–March 5, 2021

Just a brief update to advise that we are low on a wide variety of products.  We use this section to provide a quick overview fr items are selling out fast and cannot be replaced when sold out.  For more details on these and other products, please consult the separate sections of this website.

Kato Passenger Car Sets

California Zephyr–SOLD OUT

Union Pacific City of Los Angeles 11-Car Set–SOLD OUT

Milwaukee Road Hiawatha 9-Car Set–3 Sets

Southern Pacific Daylight 10-Car Set–3 Sets

Southern Pacific 2-Car Add-On Set–SOLD OUT

New York Central 20th Century 9-Car Set–3 Sets

New York Central 20th Century 4-Car Add-On Set–3 Sets

Pennsylvania Broadway Limited 10-Car Set–4 Sets

Pennsylvania Broadway Limited 4-Car Add-On Sets–3 Sets

Kato Locomotives

Union Pacific FEF3 Freight Version with LOK SOund & DCC–3 pieces

Union Pacific FEF3 Passenger Version–Only DCC & Analog Versions Available

Southern Pacific GS-4 Black with DCC–2 Road Numbers–$260.00 each

Union Pacific E8/9 Diesels Analog–few left, CALL!

Western Pacific F3 ABB Analog–1 Set Left

Denver & Rio Grande F3 AA with with TCS DCC–1 Set

Denver & Rio Grande PA AB Analog–1 Set

Pennsylvania E8 AA Sets Analog–Earlier Runs, several pieces left

Rapido

Amtrak–SOLD OUT

BN Exceutive Scheme 4-Car Set–2 Sets

Osgood Bradley 4-Car Sets Remaining in Canadian National, Seaboard, and Southern Pacific

Micro-Trains Heavyweight Passenger Car Sets

Union Pacific Two-Tone Gray 8-Cars–2 Sets–SOLD OUT

Northern Pacific Two-Tone Green 8-Cars–2 Sets

Denver & Rio Grande 5-Car Set–2 Sets

Pennsylvania Tuscan 6-Cars–1 or 2 sets

Baltimore & Ohio, New York Central & Norfolk & Western–SOLD OUT

Kato Foreign Trains

German ITC 12-Cars with DCC and 2 Powerd Cars–1 Set

French TGV 10-Car Sets Analog–1 Lyria, 1 Reseau, and 1 “New Color”

Japanese “Seven Stars to Kyushu”–SOLD OUT

Japanese Noto 5-Car Set Analog–1 Set

Japanese Kyoto Area Color Green 6-Car Set with DCC–1 Set

Japanese Kyoto Area Color Green 6-Car Set Analog–i Set

Japanese Hyabusa 10-Car set–1 Set Analog & 1 Set DCC

Japanese Chuo Orange 10-Car Set Analog–1 Set

Kato Newly Released Trams

1 Green Lex Mover–SOLD OUT

2 Piccolo-Piccola 2-Car Sets–1 Set

6 Hiroshima-Hanover Small Trams

Update #47–March 2, 2021

All–Thanks for your interest in our products and patience as we move forward in the COVID World.  Our family is well and waiting for our vaccinations sometime this month.

The COVID World has resulted in many changes for the model train industry.  One of the biggest has been cancellation of model train shows which, in turn, has moved us to a larger Internet presence.  We now provide at the customer’s request photos of models.  Our presence in the virtual world will continue to grow at virtual shows and through other media.

On the other hand, the traditional chain of manufacturer/importer, distributor, and seller continues to be impacted on by delays in the overall transportation structure.  Shipments that once took two days are sometimes delayed for two weeks or more by problems with the postal service.  Finally, we continue as consumers and traders to face uncertainty regarding the future of the industry with China.  This is a time of many transitions and we much appreciate your patience and understanding.

The Kato SD-40-2s Maersk (NS Logo), BN and ATSF arrive this week.  They will be followed by the 5-Car Twin Stacks in Maersk and BNSF (2 sets each road namae).  Later this spring the SD70Ms flat radiator version arrive in CSX and Southern Pacific.  Look for Southern Pacific GS4s in Black this summer followed by F7 AB sets (B&O, Milwaukee Road, SP Black Widow, and UP) later in the fall.  Kato will offer the GS4s and the F7s in analog, DCC, and DCC with LOK Sound.

One of the best developments has been the arrival of the new Kato Trams.  These modern versions are offered in:  the single unit Greenmover Lex (Green & White–$110-); and the very sharp two car set of Piccolo and Piccola (Dark Red and Burgundy–$220-).  The cars are equipped with a flawless new drive system as well as front and back-up lights.  They run superbly.  We are running low on these units with 1 Greenmover and 2 Piccolo/Piccola sets currently in stock. We still have a few of the Hiroshima/Hanover smaller trams in stock.

The new foreign train sets include the Kato 10-Car Hyabusa set and the 10-Car Thales Paris, Brussels, Antwerp train.  We also have a number of Swiss Glacier Park starter sets and add-on passenger cars.  For modelers who favor freight trains, there are sets of tank cars, open auto carriers, and lime trains.   A few Japanese steam locomotives are also in stock.

Please stay safe and Best!

 

Update #46–February 15, 2021–New Products and Kato Unitrak Price Increases

Thanks to all who participated in the Amherst Model Railroad Society’s 1st Virtual Train Show over the weekend of January 30-31.  We appeciate the work done by the Amherst Society and plan to participate in future programs.  We also will do our best to post the presentation on line within the next bfew weeks.

Kato Unitrak Price Increase

On January 1, 2021, Kato announced a large price increase on many of their N Scale and HO Scale Unitrak Prices.  There were many increases of 20% per item. To assist you our customers, we had 40 day grace period and did not begin to increase prices until February 10.

Here is the story behind price increases.  First, the demand for Unitrak in Japan has outpaced the available supply and this has resulted in less track available for the U.S. market.   Second, worldwide inflaction have combined with the financial requirement for manufacturers to make new and costly investments in track design and manufacturing equipment.  These factors appear to be behind the price increases.  Third and most importat from our perspective, we held the line on price increases for Unitrak for at least 8 years, YES 8 YEARS!  For the last few years, we often advised online and show customers to stock-up on track before the prices went up.  We could no longer hold the line and have track sales remain profitable.  Accordingly, we increased prices to reflected the our higher acquisition costs.  However, in most instances, we have been abe to keep our track prices highly competitive.  As a result, most tracks discounts remain between 25% and 30% off the list prices.

 

Update #45–January 27, 2021–Springfield Virtual Train Show

This is a brief message to provide information on the Amherst Railway Society’s Virtual Train Show which is scheduled to take place this weekend–Saturday January 30, and Sunday January 31, 2021.

The Amherst Society will be live streaming the show from Palmer, Massachusetts.  They have assembled over 50 sessions, each lasting approximately 15 minutes, consisting of:  Live Railroad Clinics by noted model railroaders; and presentations by Manufactuers, as well as vendors.  Our company, National Capital Trains, is scheduled to be on SATURDAY January 30th at 12:30 pm.  Our presentation will include Power Point slides with numerous photos of new products, our operating N Scale dislay layout and of our facility; and a “Special Show Offer for Customers”.

Please note that the entire two-day Virtual Show be recorded and then segmented to play after the weekend by anyone at any time by anyone.

To access the show, go to www.Amherstrail.org.  Look for Virtual Railroad Show and click on https://virtualrailfan.com/amherst/

Enjoy the Virtual Show and look forward to hearing from you.

Bernie and Team

Update #44–January 24, 2021

This week traditionally marks the opening of the train show season with the Amherst Model Railroad’s Society’s Annual Springfield Train Show that takes place on the last weekend of January.  Unfortunately but understanably the show organizers cancelled the 53rd annual train show because of COVID-19.  However, the Amherst Railroad Society has scheduled a Virtual Train Show for the weekend of January 30-31.

The Virtual Train Show will be “Streaming Live” from the Society’s Headquarters in Palmer, Massachusetts.  The show will include a series of online Show and Tell programs, and other digital events.  You will have the opportunity for two days to hear clinics, model railroad clubs, the latest news from manufacturers, and updates from exhibitors such as National Capital Trains’ virtual presentation.  For further information, please go to www.amherstrail.org

Current National Capital Trains Update

We continue to receive many new items.  Kato USA released the SD70ACe Union Pacific with the colorful “Powered By Our People” Logo.  This model makes a perfect partner for the earlier Union Pacific SD70ACe “The Spirit.”  The DCC version will be available within the next few weeks.  A few New York Central 20th Century E7AA sets and passenger car sets train remain in-stock.  Individual railway post office, sleepers and observation car kits remain for modelers that would like to expand the passenger car consist.

Other new products just arrived include:  Kato’s Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam (PBA)  10-Car Thales Highspeed Train in dark red & silver; Bachmann’s New York Central J3A Hudson (4-6-4) steam loco with DCC & Sound; Micro-Trains monthly releases and weathered cars and car sets; Kato MAXI Twinstack sets; as well as a few more passenger cars and car sets.

Our N Scale and HO Brass Listings continue to grow.  We recently added a large number of new and very scarce Key N Scale Steam Locomotives in the Southern Pacific Prototype, incuding Cab Fowards and GS-4 Daylights.  New arrivals of HO brass will be posted shortly.

Again, please look for us at this coming weekend’s Amherst Railway Society Virtual Train Show.  Our slide presentation will include a special offer for those check it out and make purchases from us.  Regards to all!

 

Update #43 — January 9, 2021

Happy New Year to all and let’s look forward to a better and healthier year in 2021!

r People”; Atlas Diesels, and the Kato European “Paris/Brussels/Amsterdam” 10-car Super Train.

Although we recently updated the locomotives and passenger car listings, we are providing this brief overview given the high volume of product turnover the past two months.  For further information, please check the specific product listings.  

 

N Scale Passenger Car Outlook for Kato, Micro-Trains, and Rapido

There were large sales over the Christmas Season and here is what remains:

Kato California Zephyr 11-car set–SOLD OUT

Kato Union Pacific “City of Los Angeles” 11-car set–2 sets

Kato New York Central 20th Century 9-car and 4-car sets–4 of each

Kato Southern Pacific Daylight 10-car set–4 sets

Kato Milwaukee Hiawatha 9-car set–3 sets

Kato Japanese “Seven Starts to Kyushu” 8-car train–1 set (SOLD OUT)

Kato Japanese “Mizukaze” 10-car set–4 sets

Kato German ITC 12-car train, dual powered with DCC–1 set

Micro-Trains Penn Central 5-car heavyweight set–SOLD OUT

Micro-Trains Denver & Rio Grande 5-car heavyweight set–4 sets going and going fastt

Micro-Trains  Santa Fe 12-car Fast Mail Express Train–2 sets

Micro-Trains Illinois Central 5-car heavyweight set–3 sets

Rapido Amtrak Cars– about 10 left (SOLD OUT)

Rapido Osgood Bradley–2 Southern Pacific Lark 4-Car Sets; 1 Cotton Belt Daylight 4-car set; 2 Canadian National 4-car sets

BN Executive Scheme 4-car sets–2 or 3 left

Kato Diesel Passsenger Locomotives Low Stock:  Santa Fe F7s & PAs; Denver & Rio Grande PAs; New York Central E7s; Union Pacifc E8/9s; Western Pacific F3s

Kato Steam Locomotives: 

Union Pacific FEF3 Freight w/ith Sound/DCC–2 left

Southern Pacific Daylight sold out

BNSF Black Special Steam loco–1 left in DCC

Kato Modern Freight Locomotives:  CSX SD70ACe and ES44s; Norfolk Southern SD70ACes & SD70s flat radiator; Union Pacific SD70M

Fox Valley Models:  Very low on many roads, please refer to updated list or call

Broadway Limited Diesels :  1 Santa Fe PA A-Unit; 2-3 PRR E7/8s; 2 PRR Switchers; 1 Baldwin Centipedes w/Sound in PRR & Seaboard

Broadway Limited Steam–2-3 PRR Mountains (4-8-2) and 7 or 8 PRR T1s (4-4-4-4-) first run

Kato Unitrak/Unitram and New Horosihma Tram!

The Hiroshma Trams are back in stock.  Kato redesigned this model with an upgraded drive system that results in more realistic low speed operation.  These are terrific models and we offer an excellent sales of $40 per unit.

We also have an excellent selection of Unitrak, Unitram Track, and a few Unitram starter sets

Finnaly, just a note to advise that we can provide pictures for most if not all items.  Just request it, particularly as it relates to foreign train sets, starter sets, as well as N Scale and HO brass  models.

 

Update #42–November 3, 2020

Kato

This will be a very busy month starting with the arrival of the Kato New York Central “20Th Century Limited.”  This is the next in line of Kato famous railroad passenger name trains from the 1940-1950s.  The set includes the following components which are also separately available:  (1) New York Central dual powered E7 AA diesel set; (2) 9-car basic passenger car consist; and (3) a 4-car add-on set.  Models will be available first in the analog version, followed later this month with DCC and Lok Sound/DCC versions.  Sales have been very brisk so please contact us ASAP!  You should be aware that due to cost, we are ordering only the LOK Sound/DCC units for which there are reservations.  There will be no extra sound-equipped models available.

Kato USA is issuing the SD70Ms with the flat radiators in Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific, as well as a resupply of many Unitrak items.  We will also be receiving a small number of Kato Japanese prototype models this month, including:  the Shinkansen Nozomi 700 sets in the 8-car powered and unpowered versions, as well as the Series 323 Osaka Loop 4-Car base and 4-car add-on sets.  We also have back in stock the EM13 decoders to convert your models to DCC, and the FL12 lighting kits for the front and back end of the foreign train consists.  In late November, look for the Hanover/Hiroshima trams and the long awaited Thales Paris, Brussels, and Antwerp (PBA) 10-car high speed train.  Finally, just a brief menton that we have at this time a good selection of freight cars sets, including tank cars and the cargo lime trains.  Please order now because they go out of stock very quickly.

N Scale Passenger Cars Outlook

We are getting very low on the following units:

Kato Union Pacific City of “Los Angeles” 11-Car Set;

Kato Milwaukkee Road “Hiawatha” 9-car set;

Kato California Zephyr 11-car set;

Micro-Trains Penn Central Heavyweight 5-car set;

Micro-Trains Northern Pacific Heavyweight 5-car set;

Micro-Trains Illinois Central Heavyweight 5-cat set;

Micro-Trains Santa Fe 12-Car Fast Mail Express Train;

Micro-Trains Heavyweight Maintenance of Way 5-car set;

Broadway Limited Pennsyvania P70 4-Car Set without air conditioning; and,

Atlas Trainman Heavyweight 5-Car Sets in Chesapeake & Ohio and Jersey Central.

Broadway Limited N Scale Steam Locomotives

We are down to 2 or 3 sound-equipped Broadway Limited Pennsylvania Railroad M1As (4-8-2). There are also between 5-7 units of the orgnal run of the sound-equipped Pensylvania T1s (4-4-4-4) remaining in stock.  The USRA Light and Heavy Mikadoes are sold out.

Micro-Trains

The monthly releases have been selling out very quickly but we still have some weathered and grafitted cars, as well as runner packs.  Later this month we should be receiving the following runner packs: Pacific Fruit Express/Western Pacific 40′ Double Sheathed Reefer 4-Packs; Union Pacific (Yellow) 40′ Box Car 4-Packs; CSX weatherd 3-car tie loader sets; and the new TTX Version 1 60′ Excess Height Double Door Box Cars.

Other Developments

We are workng on adding pictures to help assist you in viewing items.  There will be 1 photo of an item.  You will be able to request additional pictures and well as videos of the items running. This is a long process as there are thousands of SKUs on our site.  The first photos will be pictures of N Scaler starter sets and N Scale brass models.

Until next month Happy Thanksgving to All and stay safe!

 

Update #41–October 10, 2020

We are now into fall season and there is much news to report.

Starter Sets:

New entrants into N Scale model railroading now have a wide variety of high quality starter sets to choose from.  Our “train-in-the-box” starter sets offer locomotives, freight or passenger cars, Kato Unitrak, and power supply.  We now offer the following Kato starter sets:

Amtrak P42, 3 pasenger cars, track and power supply;

Amtrak Siemens ACS64, 4 passenger cars, track and power supply;

CB&Q “Silver Streak” Zephyr with E5 diesel, 5 passenger cars, track and power supply;

Swiss “Glacier on Tour” Express with Loco, 2 passenger cars, track and power supply;

Japanese “Dr. Yellow” 3-Car Powered Set, Track and Power Supply.

Japanese Shinkansin Nozomi 700 4-Car powered set, track, and power supply; and,

Japanese D51 Steam locomotive, 2 passenger cars, track and power supply.

For those modelers who would like longer trains, we offer add-on” passenger car sets.

New Arrivals:

Kato:  The Kato F7 A-Units and B-Units in the red & silver and yellow & silver bonnets just arrived.  They will be followed-up this week with the rerun of the ES44ACs in CSX and Canadian National (2 road numbers per road name).  The MAXI-IV 3-car twinstack sets are back in stock in: CSX; UMAX, and Pacer Stacktrain.  We anticipate receiving the Kato New York Central 20Th Century Sets around the second week of November.  Interest has been very strong and we have a few sets left for advance reservation.  In December we should receive the Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific SD70Ms with flared radiators.  For trolley fans, look for the Hiroshima/Hanover Tram in late November, early December.  The “Amsterdam-Brussels-Paris” TGV set also should arrive in December.

Micro-Trains: Micro-Trains has issued their October releases, including weathered cars, and they are going fast.  We currently have:  Norfolk Southern 4-pack of open hoppers; the C&O weathered 2-pack of 50′ box cars; as well as many other 2-packs and individual Railbox 50′ Cars.  The Pacific Fruit Express Western Pacific steam era reefer 4-pack and the first issue of the TTX 3-pack of 60′ two-door high side boxcars should arrive later this month

N Scale Brass:  Brass sales remain strong an we added the following new models:  Hallmark Models factory painted 4-8-2, 2-10-2, and 4-6-2; Fairbanks Morse Trainmaster, Baldwin VO-1000 and Baldwin S-12 Switcher.  You can buy brass in confidence because we accurately describe items and can provide at your request photos as well as a video of each model running.

HO Brass:  A few new models including:  a very rare mint unpainted Key Imports Delaware & Hudson Challenger (4-6-6-4); Oriental Models Pro-Painted Northern Pacific A4 & A5 4-8-4 Northerns; Pacific Fast Mail Facotry Painted Tenshodo Great Northern P2 Mountain (4-8-2) and R2 Articulated (2-8-8-2); and Northwest Shortline new unpainted Milwaukee Road S2 4-8-4 Northern.

Just a few final notes.  Beginning with N Scale Brass, we are working on process to insert photos of much of our our inventory.  We will expand the photos in the future.  In the meantime, request a photo or video of an item.  Finally, for those who are local, we offer the option to stop buy to pick-up your purchases.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Update #40–September 21, 2020

Just received another group of  outstanding Key N Scale Brass Stem Locomotives.  Most models are like new and have been test run.  We have videos of each loco running as well as pictures.  Here they are and please check our brass page for more details:

Key (Samhongsa) Series 120 Southern Pacific AC-6 Cab Forward 4-8-8-2 #4126

Key (Samhongsa) Series 124 Southern Pacific AC-10 Cab Forward 4-8-8-2 #4205

Key (Samhongsa) Series 124 Southern Pacific AC-12 Cab Froward 4-8-8-2 #4275; and

Key (Nakamura-Japan) Southern Pacific AC-12 Cab Forward 4-8-8-2 #4294

O Scale Models: The following 2-RAIL O Scale brass models have just been added to the Brass Section:

Sunset Models Canadian National (4-8-4) #6227

Sunset Models Canadian Pacific K1A (4-8-4) #3101–VERY RARE!

Sunset Models New York Central J3 Empire State Express (4-6-4), New

Sunset Models Pennsylvania M1A (4-8-2) 6715, New

Sunset Models Pennsylvania M1B (4-8-2) 6756 New

Sunset Models Southern Pacific 4-10-2 with Gray Boiler, Excellent Plus

Update #39–September 20, 2020

Summer is over and we head into the fall/winter season.

New Kato Arrivals:  We just received Kato F7 Santa Fe A-units and B-Units in the red & silver and yellow & silver bonnet schemes.  We offer analog, DCC-equipped units, and very limited small number of units with sound (one F7 AB War Bonnet set) at this time.  We also have MAX-IV 3-car twinstacks in CSX, UMAX, and Pacer Stackman.  Later this month we will received a rerun of the ES44ACs in Canadian National and CSX.  The New York Central 20Th Century Passenger Train and matching E7 A-Units is on schedule to be released in November.  Finally, we expect to begin receiving trams in November, beginning with the Hiroshima-Hanover car.

Low Stock of Kato Items:  We are starting to run low on F3 units in Chicago & North Western, Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, and Western Pacific, as well as Santa Fe F7 Bluebonnet and Cigar Band units.  Analog versions of some road names are sold out.  Additionally, SD70ACes are nearly sold out in CSX, Erie, Kansas City Southern, Penn Central and New York Central.

We recently received a shipment of N Scale Unitrak and Starter sets.  More, Kato European and Japanese prototype models are due in the next week.

N Scale Brass:  This is a reminder that we still have a few GHB factory painted and upgraded Pennsylvania L1 2-8-2 Mikadoes in stock.  The models originally had a price tag of $750.  We offer the factory upgraded units which run well for a very competitive price of $350.  The model comes in the original and modern versions with several different road numbers.  This model is a must for you Pennsylvania railroad fans!

Stay Safe

 

Update #38–August 26, 2020

Here is an update on new developments.

N Scale Brass:  New arrivals include: Oriental Factory Painted UP Challenger 4-6-6-4 with DCC; Key Factory Painted Union Pacific;  2-8-0; and Key Pro-Paint Southern Pacific Lines MT4 4-8-2 Mountain with Green Boiler.  We continue to receive more Mint-to-Like-New Unusual Brass Models so please keep checking the web site listing.

HO Scale Brass: Overland Factory Painted Chesapeake & Ohio L2a Hudson #312; Key Delaware & Hudson Challenger (4-6-6-4) Unpainted; Pacific Fast Mail Great Northern Factory Painted Crowns P2 Mountain 4-8-2 (1975) and R2 Articulated 2-8-8-2 (1974); Challenger Factory Painted Union Pacific “Train of Tomorrow” E7 A-Unit and 4 Dome Cars (very rare); and Oriental Pro-Painted Northern Pacific A4 (Gray) and A5 (Black) Northerns.

N Scale Kato USA American Prototype Models: The Canadian National Transcontinental 7-car set and matching F7 locos arrived and is selling out fast.  We expect to receive the Santa Fe F7 Red and Yellow Bonnets as well as more MAXI IV Stack 3-car sets next week.   There is a good selection of DCC and analog versions of the Union Pacific FEF3s passenger and freight locos, as well as a few LOK Sound versions of freight locomotive #838. 

Low Stock of Kato and Micro-Trains Passenger Car Sets:  We are down to less than five each of the following sets:  California Zephyr 11-car set; Milwaukee Road 9-car set; Santa Fe Super Chief 8-car set; Southern Pacific Daylight 10-car set; and Union Pacific 11-car City Of Los Angeles and 7-car Excursions sets.  We also have less than 3 of the following Micro-Trains Heavyweight passenger car sets:  AT&SF Baggage Express Set;  Illinois Central 5-car set; Northern Pacific 5-Car Set; Penn Central 5-car set; and 1 Maintenance of Way 5-car heavyweight set.

N Scale Kato Foreign Prototype Models:  We received a large number of freight car sets including the Lime Cargo and Tank Cars sets.  A number of diesels have are back in stock as well as the D51 2-8-2 steam loco.  The Swiss Glacier Express just came back into stock, including:  Locomotives; Starter Sets; and Passenger car sets.  Finally, we expect to receive a large shipment of foreign trains next week so watch our listings.

Bachmann Steam Locomotives:  We just received the Norfolk & Western Class J #611 steam loco with sound and DCC.  The New York Central J3 Hudson should arrive in late November-early December.  Reservations have been strong.

We wish everyone a Happy Labor Day and look forward to the fall.  Until then, stay safe!

Update #37–August 4, 2020

We trust that you are having a good summer and remain safe from COVID-19.  We continue to be busy are receiving new arrivals and a few collections.

New arrivals from Kato include:  Canadian National 7-Car Transcontinental Set, Canadian National F7 AB and powered F7 A locomotives, and MP36PH Chicago Metra Gallery Bi-Level Commuter Train.  The set is comprised of a MP36PH Chicago Metra locomotive, as well as three Gallery Bi-Level Cars–two Coaches and one Cab-Coach.  For fans of foreign trains, the TGV Duplex Reseau 10-car train just arrived, as well as Swiss Glacier Express Starter Sets, add-on Coaches, and the Gourmino Restaurant Car.  We also received a large restock of Japanese freight cars and car sets, include, oil tank trains, Habuki Lime train, open autoracks, and containers.  Please see the section of “European and Japanese Trains” for a listing of these items and the new Japanese Passenger Train sets.

The N scale brass section continues to grow with the addition of a Key Union Pacific Big Boy #4000, Key Southern Pacific and Union Pacific 2-8-0s, a Key Southern Pacific Mikado, and a Pecos River Santa Fe 4-6-2.  All models are factory painted, come with their orignal boxes, and run well.  We expect to receive more N Scale Brass in Western Roads very soon.

Micro-Trains’ weathered cars continue to arrive.  New runner packs include weathered SF, CP/SOO, BN, and NASA 3-Car Set.  A few Santa Fe 50′ Orange Reefer Reefes and SP tank car sets remain.   There are two Santa Fe Fast Mail Express Train Sets still in stock.

Our next Update will include HO and O Scale Brass models and freight car.  Stay tuned.

Update #36–July 7, 2020

Given the frequency and volume of new arrivals, we have decided to use the “Update Section” to include a section alerting you to recent arrivals.  For more information on these arrivals, you can check our inventory listings or contact us.

Kato has released SD70ACes in Norfolk Southern in three road numbers.  The list price for the analog version is $135 per unit; our sales price $95.  The DCC-equipped units list for $215 pr unit; our sales price is $145.  The LOK Sound/DCC units list for $315; our price is $255 per unit.  The Kato MAXI IV 3-car twinstack sets TTX with 53′ CSX containers list for $125 per set; our sales price is $90 per set. Here is a partial, listing of new arrivals of Kato-built Japanese and European Models:  Series 789-100 “Kamui/Suzuran 5-Car set analog set sells for $165; the #3045 EH200 Electric Locomotive is $90; the Swiss Glacier Park Starter set is $199 with loco, 2 cars, track, and power pack; and the German ITC 12-Car Express DCC-equipped is $550.  We also have back in stock the Glacier Express 4-Car Add-On sets as well as the restaurant car Gourminio

The new Micro-Trains releases include:  the Santa F 12-car Fast Mail Set for $240.  There are a a few of the graffiteed weathered SOO/Canadian Pacific and weathered Burlington Northern 2-Packs.  Our nest update will include a listing of the July cars, new runners packs, and weathered cars.

Update #35–June 25, 2020

There are new items arriving within the week, including:  Micro-Trains weathered and graffitied freight cars, as well as the Santa Fe Heavyweight 12-Car Fast Mail Set; Atlas Bay Window Cabooses; Kato MAXI IV TTX Twinstack sets with CSX 53′ Containers; Kato Canadian National F7 AB sets and separate matching F7 A-Units; the CN Transcontinental 7-Car passenger car sets; more Unitrack including Unitram track; Japanese passenger trains, diesels, and freight cars.  Also, back in stock are the Kato 3-Car powered Commuter Coach Sets in Blue, Emerald and Orange.  These are a bargain at $45- per set!  Look for more Japanese freight cars, including tank car sets, in the very near future. Meanwhile the Kato-built Swiss Glacier Express sets are back in stock.  We have:  Glacier Express Starter Sets with track & power pack; 3-Unit Basic Sets consisting of a loco and two coaches; 4-car add-on coach sets, and the restaurant car Gourmino.  Several French Lyria 10-car sets are in stock, as well as one German ITC 12-Car set (2 powered units) with DCC.

As we publish this update, I would like to inform you that we are unlikely to attend any summer trains shows due to the risk posed by the Coronavirus.  The number of cases continues to rise in over 25 states and we think it prudent to avoid contact and maintain safe distance until there has been more progress.  However, we remain available via the internet or telephone to take your orders.  Best to all!

 Update #34–June 17, 2020

Activity is picking back-up as we receive new supplies of product which, in turn, are shipped to our customers.

The website has been updated.  Next week, we will add additional brass models in N, HO, and O scale, as well as N and O Scale freight cars.  Speaking of brass, we are having a sales on selected N Scale models so please check out this section.

Just received the June 2020 Micro-Trains new releases.  The Kato Canadian National F7s and matching passenger car sets will arrive in several weeks.  We also anticipate receiving the MAXI IV Twinstacks in TTX scheme with CSX Containers.

The following represent several suggestions for you to maximize use of our website. We have only a small amount of photos but can provide pictures at any time.  This only requires that you contact me and request photos.  Second, there are times we sell out of an items or are short shipped by the manufacturer.  We only request that you ask us to locate the item for you and it will go on our “Want List.”  We are constantly receiving collections or purchasing new inventory from various suppliers.  Just let us know what you would like to acquire.  We will do out best to locate the item(s).

Finally, a word regarding shows.  We are holding back from attending shows until the Corona Virus Cases decline and there is the development of a vaccine.  Speaking personally and having done over 600 large shows over the past 30 years, I remain very committed to maintaining my health and that of my family, as well as not endangering YOU, OUR CUSTOMERS! At the same time, we will continue to provide our customers will timely service.

Accordingly, we are expanding our online presence and will make every effort to accommodate local customers seeking to pick-up items.  This will take time but with your support we will move forward!  Until the next time–THANKS!

Update #33–June 7, 2020

The web site is now updated and we appreciate your patience during this difficult time.  New arrivals include:  Kato SD70ACEs Norfolk Southern (3#s); many Japanese foreign trains and freight cars; Micro-Trains monthly releases; and an updating of our N Scale brass listings.  Please note that we are holding a sale on many of the N Scale brass models. Ths is an opportunity to save on N Scale brass, particularly our remaining Pennsylvania models.  Finally,  A large shipment of Kato Unitrak just arrived so we are able to supply big orders.

Mode train shows remain on hold because of the Corona Virus.  However, we are open for business, filling your orders, and shipping throughout the country, as well as foreign customers.

Look for more listings of N, HO< and O Scale brass very soon.  Also, Kato will release in N Scale this fall a small Hanover-Hiroshima Trolley for you traction fans.  This model will be equipped with a new motor that will allow this model to operate at low, prototypical speeds.

Update #32–May 21, 2020

After much hard work, the website has been updated to reflect new inventory, as well as the removal of items sold during the first quarter of this year.  We are completing the update of the European and Japanese models.  Look for the arrival of a very large shipment of these models within the next two weeks.

Looking ahead, we will be adding in June a number of new “out of production” rare N Scale items, as well as more Micro-Trains, new DCC-equipped locomotives, and a large number of brass models in N, HO, and O Scale.  There will also be a large restock of Kato N Scale Unitrak.

We appreciate your patience during these challenging times.  Happy Memorial Day and please stay safe from the pandemic!

Update #31–May 1, 2020

Just a brief note to let you know that we updated the entire N Scale sections of Kato, Atlas , Fox Valley and Broadway diesel and steam locomotives.  We also updated the HO Brass section.  Next candidates to be completed in the next two weeks include: Japanese and European foreign trains, passenger cars, N Scale Brass (temporarily down), and Micro-Trains runner packs.  Also, watch for more rare N Scale items within the next 30 days. New products just  updated over weekend include: Kato N Scale passenger cars; N Scale Unitrak; Wheels of Time freight cars; and HO Hybrid and plastic locos.

Everyone–stay home and safe!

Update #30–April 25, 2020

All–Much has happened since our March Update.  Notwithstanding the Corona Virus, we remain open “7/24” and available to supply your model railroading interests.  Although the COVID-19 has resulted in a temporary closing of model train shows, we remain open to meet your requirement via this web cite or cell phone. We continue shipping via the U.S. Postal Service’s Priority Mail.

The halt in train shows is being addressed through expansion of our web site offerings..  The N Scale Locomotive Section is being updated and over 50% complete.  New arrivals such as Micro-Trains are being added.  We should complete the N Scale Locomotive, Brass, and Foreign Trains sections within the next week.

New arrivals include: Kato SD70 ACes with nose headlight in BNSF (3#s) and Norfolk Southern (3#s);  Kato Foreign Train models such as the German ITC 12-Car Set with Sound and DCC, DR Yellow and the 10-Car Mizukaze Set, nd new releases from MicroTrains.  Many of our N Scale foreign trains sets will be offered equipped with DCC and lights.

We will provide more frequent updates and thanks for all your support during this critical and challenging time!!

 

Update #29–March 19, 2020

All–Just wanted you to know that we are open,filling orders, and shipping via the U.S. Postal Service.

Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) we have either cancelled shows or they have been cancelled (e.g., Chicago March O Scale Meet and May Great Scale Show in Timonium).  Consequently, we are updating out list and filling orders and shipping via U.S. Postal Service.  We will also provide more frequent of updates of this section of our web site.

New arrivals within the next several weeks include:  Kato SD70Ace BNSF Nose Headlight Analog (arrived):  Micro-Trains March weathered and grafiteed cars as well as monthly releases; Micro-Trans Runner Packs B&O 8-car hopper set and SP tanker car set; Kato SD70ACe BNSF DCC due to arrive shortly; Kato SD70ACe Norfolk Southern Analog; Kato Japanese Models and 12-Car German ICE Set with Sound & DCC; long waited Atlas GP30s PRR with LOK Sound; more Unitrak.

We also have available for sale the DCC versions of the Kato 10-Car Mizukaze and 10-Car Chuo Anniversary sets.

Meanwhile, we are currently beginning the process of updating our listings on the web site.  We appreciate your patience and understanding during this critical time.  Please stay healthy.  Best!    Bernie

Update #28–February 5, 2020

All:  Just a brief message to let you know that we will be setting up the weekend of February 8-9 at the World’s Greatest Hobby Train Show at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia–about 20 miles south of Washington, D.C.

Since our last update, we have sold many items, and there have been the addition of a large number of products, including:  Kato-built European and Japanese foreign trains; new Micro-Trains  cars and runner packs; Atlas SD60Es Norfolk Southern “First Responder”, as well as Kato’s Pennsylvania Railroad Broadway Limited Passenger Trains Sets and PRR 5-Stripe GG1 Electrics in Brunswick Green and Tuscan.

Look forward to seeing you this weekend.  Look for and update of our list within the next few weeks.  Best to All!

Update #27–January 8, 2020

Happy New Year to all!  As we begin the second decade of the 21st Century, model railroading continues to be a fantasttic hobby combining craftsmanship, friendship, technology and most of all Fun,

This weekend finds us at the Greenberg Train Show at the Greater Phildelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania–January 11-12. 

January and February will be very busy as we attend a large number of shows in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.  In addition to this weekends Oaks Show, look for us at the following shows:

January 25-26, 2020:  Amherst Railway Society Springfield Train Show in Springfield, Massachusetts.  We will be in our usual location in the Better Living Building Section 17;

February 1-2, 2020:  Great Scale Model Train Show at the Fairgrounds in Timonium, Maryland.  We are located in our usual spot at the front of the Center Hall;

February 8-9, 2020:  Word’s Greatest Hobby Train Show at the Chantilly, Virginia Expo Center; and

February  29-March 1, 2020:  Greenberg Train Show at the New Jersey Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey.

We plan to put on sale many new products at the forthcoming shows, including:  Atlas Norfolk Southern SD60Es in the Black and First Responders Schemes; Kato’s Chicago & Northwestern “#400” 6-Car Set in analog and DCC; many new Kato-built models of Japanese and European foreign passenger and freight trains, some DCC-equipped; new Micro-Trains single cars and runner packs; a collection of many N Scale B&O and Pennsylvania passenger cars; as well as a large and price competitive collection of highly collectible N Scale brass models.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at the shows.  If you cannot make the shows, please contact via e-mail or phone.

Best to all!

Update #26–November 19, 2019

All,

National Capital Trains is now on Twitter!  Watch for out tweets on a wide variety of Model Railroading events.  Our Twitter address is:  @NatCapTrains  We will also be moving to Facebook by year’s end.

Just a reminder that this weekend–November 23-24–we will be the Brass Expo and Custom Craftsman Show 2019 at the Wyndham Lancaster Resort Hotel in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.  We are bringing many N Scale Brass Models–over 50–in many roads, as well as HO and O Scale Brass and Brass Hybrids.  Watch your favorite N Scale Brass run on our large operating display.

Our next update wlll focus on new N Scale releases, including the new Kato Chicago & North Western Bi-Level “400” Train Set, foreign trains, Micro-Trains, as well as a few surprises.

Look forward to seeing you at the Brass Show in Lancaster or the Greenberg Train Shows in Edison, New Jersey or Chantilly, Virginia.

Happy Thanksgiving!

ADDENDUM:  Just received November Weathered Cars:  ACF Hopper; PFE 51′ 3-Pack; and Western Maryland 2-Pack Consisting of 50′ Troop Sleeper & 50′ Troop Kitchen Car.  Also received two runner packs:  Union Pacific Tie Loader 3-Pack and Department of Defense COFC Flat Car 3-Pack #2.

Update #25–November 5, 2019

Train season is now underway and there are many new developments.

Atlas 

The SD60E Norfolk Southern units have arrived, including the the Black & White, “9/11”, and “First Responder Units.”  These units feature terrific detail, outstanding paintwork, and the new LOK 5 sound decoders.  We are running low on some, particularly the analog versions where only 5 units remain.  We also have a few SD60smodels left in the Blue & White EMD Demonstrator colors.

We still have a few sets of the Atlas Trainman 60′ heavyweight cars in:  Boston & Maine, Chesapeake & Ohio, Denver & Rio Grande, and New Haven.  A few single cars remain in B&M and Denver & Rio Grande.  Grand Trunk Western and New York Central are sold out!

Kato US Prototype

We just received a final shipment of SD70ACes and ES44ACs in CSX colors.  Units available include two road numbers in analog or DCC.  The Norfolk Southern SD70ACes and BNSF SD70ACes in the high nose headlight version should be available in January.  Turning to train sets, the Chicago & North Western E8 and matching Green and Yellow high level cars should arrive at the beginning of December.  Look for the rerun of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s “Broadway Limited” passenger car sets, as well as 5-Stripe GG1s in Brunswick green and Tuscan.

Kato European & Japanese Prototype 

Many new models now in stock. Steam locomotive models include the D51 2-8-2 and the C11 2-6-4.  The highly popular Kokuden 3-car powered commuter sets are back in stock in:  green, orange, yellow, blue, and teal.  For $45 a, 3-car powered set that goes around 7″ radius is a bargain!  Freight power includes two versions of the popular EF200 Electrics.  The #35-4000 Series 5-car Yamaguchi passenger sets arrived.  They pair up nicely with the D51 2-8-2 stream locomotive models.  Finally, there are still a few 8-Car sets of the fabulous model of the “Seven Stars To Kyushu” train set.

Pocket trains just arrived.  This month we offer a German Pocket Train with two passenger coaches pulled by a small 0-4-0 locomotive.  These models operate flawlessly and can negotitate 5″ radius curves.  Again, in N Scale you can run quality in a VERY VERY Small Space!

Unitrak, including Unitram Trackage

Most track items now available, including all “V” and “M” Series Track Sets.  We also have a few single track curved bridges, as well as the turntable and related accessories.

Micro-Trains

All current items in stock.  There is a nice selection of weathered and grafiteed cars, multi-car runner packs, as well as the new monthly releases.  We will be soon offering 8-to-10 car heavyweight passenger car sets in Northern Pacific, Southern Pacific, and Union Pacific.   Look in the future for a few sets of Micro-Trains Baltimore & Ohio and Pennsylvania sets as well.

Look for us later this month at;

–The Brass Expo and Custom Craftsman Model 2019 Show in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on November 23-24 (see below); and

–The Greenberg Train & Toy Show at the Raritan Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey on November 30-December 1 (see below).

Until then, we wish all a Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Update #24–October 17, 2019

 

We are now celebrating our 30th year in business!

Thanks to all our customers as well as the many manufacturers & distributors who supported us throughout the years.

To celebrate our 30th anniversary, we will hold our first “Customer Appreciation” at the October 26-27, 2019 Great Scale Train Show at the Timonium, Maryland Fairgrounds.  There will be some great bargains!

Look for us at the following Train Shows during October, November & December 2019:

October 26-27, 2019:  The Great Scale Model Train Show at he Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, Maryland, just outside Baltimore.

November 23-24, 2019:  Brass Expo & Custom Craftsman Models 2019 Show at the Wyndham Lancaster Resort Hotel in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.  We will bring the largest selection of N Scale brass models, as well as HO and O Scale Brass, including Narrow Gauge.

November 30-December 1, 2019:  The Greenberg Train and Toy Show at the Raritan Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey

December 14-15, 2019:  The Greenberg Train and Toy Show at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia (just outside Washington, DC).

Update #23–September 12, 2019

Summer is over and now it is time to get back to trains.  We will be posting shortly updates on new products, including:  models of foreign trains; PRR P70 Coaches, Micro-Trains, as well as Kato American prototype models.

Out fall show schedule follows:

September 21-22, 2019:  The O & S Scale Midwest Train Show at the Wyndham Indianapolis West Hotel in Indianapolis, Indiana.  We will be briingng a large selection of O Scale, as well as O & S Scale Narrow Gauge.

October 5-6, 2019:  The Great Berea Train Show at the Cuyahoga County Fairground in Berea, Ohio.  The Fairgrounds are located on Bagley road approximately 1-2 miles from the Cleveland Johns Hopkins Airport.

October 26-27, 2019:  The Great Scale Model Train Show at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, Maryland just outside of Baltimore.

 

Update #22–July 7, 2019

All–This message covers developments since the May Update and discusses a number of announcements of new products to be released during the remainder of 2019 and throughout 2020.  Before discussing new products, we look forward to seeing you at the following train shows in August:

August 10-11, 2019:  The Greenberg Train and Toy Show at the Raritan Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey.

August 17-18, 2019: The Greenberg Train and Toy Show at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia (just outside of Washington, DC)

 

Atlas

The Trainman 60′ Heavyweight passenger cars are available but going fast.  We still have a few 5-Packs as well as individual cars in Boston & Maine, Central of New Jersey, and Denver & Rio Grande.  We also just located a few of the scarce Chesapeake & Ohio 5-packs.

Blackstone Models (HOn3)

Only a few items remain.  There are approximately 3 or 4 C19 Diamond Stack 2-8-0s painted in the Russian Iron Boiler scheme but unlettered.  All models are new and come with DCC and Tsunami Sound.  A second run of Rio Grande 30′ stock cars should arrive later this summer.   Several 4-Packs of Micro-Trains HOn3 log cars remain but do not delay.

Brass

There is still a good selection of vintage Baltimore & Ohio and Pennsylvania models from Hallmark Models, Key Imports, Overland Models, and Oriental.  We anticipate receiving a number of Key Southern Pacific models later this summer.

Broadway Limited Imports

Modelers can expect a number of new releases throughout the remainder of 2019.  The first release will be models of modern cryogenic tank cars.  USRA Mikado (2-8-2) Steam Loco models will follow closely in many road names, and with DCC & Sound. Later this year there will be models of SD70ACes with DCC & Sound.  Broadway has just announced models of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s P70 Coaches in 4-Car Sets and single cars. Models will be available with or without the air conditioning fans.  Reserve now as these will be a sellout item!

The N Sale Cryogenic Tank Cars will arrive next week.  This is a limited production run and we have only a few of each number remaining.  Order now to avoid being sold out!

Kato European and Japanese Prototype Models

The 7-car and 5-car (add-on) German Inter-City Express (ICE) just arrived and are going fast.  The add-on set contains a power car so the modeler can double head this train with additional power.  The models are also DCC friendly.  We still have a few of the outstanding models of the “Seven Starts to Kyushu” Train set.  In our opinion, this set ranks up there with the best trains Kato Japan has released.  The Doctor Yellow 7-Car trains and the two unit JRF EH500 are back in stock.  We are now accepting advance reservations for the Series 87 “Twilight Express Mizukaze 1–Unit Set” which is due in January 2020.  This set will be the third in the series of high quality Kato Japanese Luxury Train Sets–the fist two being the Shicka Shima followed by the “Seven Starts to Kyushu”.   Quantities are very limited so reserve now.  Other new release during 2019 will include:  the Series 787 “Around Kyushu”; the Series 701-1000 Sendai Color Sets; the Series 233 Chuo-Line 130th Anniversary Edition 10-Car Set; the Eizan 900 “Aomomiji Kiara” Maple Green Special Edition; the D51 Steam Locomotive Starter Set;  4-Car Sets of Old Passenger Cars (Brown); Freight Containers; and the Series E353 “Azusa/Kaiji” Basic and Add-On sets.  Please see our updated Foreign Trains Section for more information on current stock.

Kato USA American Prototype Models

Reruns:  Kato just released a rerun of the ES44ACs in Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF), Canadian National, and Union Pacific.  The BNSF versions are also available with DCC.  Models of ALCO’s PA Diesels are also available in:  Santa Fe Gold Bonnet (A-Units only), as well as Santa Red & Silver powered A-Units and B-Units.  DCC-equipped versions are available.  These models will be followed by the SD70ACe painted for “George Bush 41”.

New Releases:   Kato just released models of the Amtrak Viewliner II Baggage Phase III Heritage Cars in two numbers.  This model has entirely new tooling and represents a welcome addition for modelers of Amtrak operations.  In the fall, there will be a Chicago & North Western E8 A-Unit pulling a 5-Car Bi-Level “400” Train.  These new Bi-Level,cars will be painted in C&NW yellow and green to match the E8 units.  The “new” cars include:  a 4-window Coach-Buffet; a 4-window Coach; a Coach-Parlor Car, and a Bi-Level Cab-Coach.  There will also be a very limited run of kits of matching Coaches, Coach-Buffets, and Cab-Coaches.  Reserve now because the C&NW trains sets and car kits are highly desirable.  Ready-to-run Coaches, and Cab-Coaches will also be offered in the silver Chicago Metra scheme.

Kato & Woodland Scenics Subterrain T-Trak Module Kits Now In Stock: The big news is that Kato and Woodland have teamed-up to produce and distribute T-Trak module kits that make it easier for modelers to enter into layout and scenery building.  These kits are made from lightweight, sculptable foam with wooden reinforcements.  Each kits consists of a Woodland Scenics shaper sheet, scultping plaster, tools, glue, and Kato Unitrak.  There are two modular sections.  The straight kit (K28885) is 12’x12′ and includes straight sections of the double concrete track.  The corner module kit (K28886) is 12’x14″ and consists of curved and easements sections of double concrete track with the 11-12″ radius (#20-183 and #20-184).  Kato and Woodland designed these kits to T-Track standards which allow you to snap together multiple modules to existing T-Trak modules.  You can read more about T-Trak modular standards at http://www.t-trak.org.  The list price is $49 per kit; Our sales price is $39 per kit.

Micro-Trains

Current releases are in stock, including the individual cars, Runner-Packs of freight and passenger cars, and weathered and grafeteed freight cars.

Rapido American and Canadian Prototype Models

Rapido just announced a large number of N Scale projects that will be released beginning later this year and continuing throughout 2020.  The scope of the projects is very impressive and will enable U.S. and Canadian modelers to expand their rosters of classic and modern diesels and passenger equipment.  The first project up consists models of the Amtrak Horizon passenger cars.  The releases include coaches and dinettes with full underbody detail, GSI G70 trucks with turned-metal wheelsets, full interior detail, accurate paint and lettering, tinted windows, metal side grab irons, and constant interior lighting in DC and DCC  (turn on or off with your Rapido Lighter).  The versions of the Horizon cars will include Phase III Narrow Stripes, Phase III Wide Stripes, Phase IV, Phase VI, and Amtrak California.

Rapido plans to follow-up with a  Northeastern Commuter Classic–models of the Comet passenger cars.  They will offer cab cars and coaches in AMT Montreal, CDOT Connecticut, MBTA Boston, MNCR New York, NJT Jersey. Septa Philadelphia.  The cars will feature all the details found on Rapido passenger cars such as fully detailed and lighted interiors and complete prototype accuracy.

Following-up on the Horizon and Comet cars will be a run of the highly sought after models of the Bombardier LRC Coach.  The cars will be offered in the Coach, VIA 1, and Business Class Versions.  These models will go well with the F40PH-2D models Rapido will release during 2020.

Via F40PH-2Ds, to pull the Bombardier LRC Coaches, will be offered.  They will include silent (analog) versions as well as a version with that works in DC/DCC and Sound.   The paint schemes include: Original Scheme )(Gray & Yellow), Canada Scheme, and Via Rail Canada.

While we focus almost exclusively on N Scale, it is worthwhile to mention Rapido’s first offering of a steam locomotive in HO Scale.  The first release in the “Icons of Canadian Steam” series in HO scale is the Royal Hudson.  In our humble opinion, Rapido has raised the bar with an outstanding model that runs flawlessly and features outstanding pain and detail.  We have a few left in the 1938 Royal Train Blue & Silver and the British Columbia Maroon and Gray colors.  This models is truly outstanding!

Rapido N Scale Canadian Trains & FP9 Passenger Diesels:

During 2020, Rapido will release its first “Name Train” in N Scale–the Canadian.  There will be two separate 10-Car Sets of the 1955-57 Canadian in the Maroon & Gray with Block Lettering.  In addition, there will be 10-Car sets offered in VIA Rail Canada and CP Action Red.  Rapido will also offer a 3-Car Set of add-on coaches in the Manor Chateau series, as well as separate vista dome cars.  The Canadian will be pulled by FP-9 A-Units in analog or DCC/Sound versions.  They plan to release FP9s in other Canadian paint schemes such as Canadian National (1954 Green & Yellow Scheme and later Stripes), VIA Rail, Algoma Central, and CP Action Red.  These will be enormously popular models and in extremely short supply.

Wheels of Time (WOT) Addendum–July 12, 2019

The second run of Pacific Car & Foundry 50′ XLI Insulated Box Cars will arrive next week.  The cars will be offered with the appropriate doors–Landis or Youngstown–based on the prototype.  Road names include:  AT&SF Shock Red; Burlington Northern Green w/Large Logo; Conrail ex-Penn Central MDT Heritage, brown paint; CSX ex-MP, gray paint; D&RG-Union Pacific, brown D&RGW w/UP Shield; DRGW ex-Golden West Service, blue DRGW; and Texas & Pacific w/MP Lines Buzz Saw Logo, brown.  The Chinese manufacturer increased the price it charged Wheels of Time which accounts for a $35 List Price.  Our price will be $27.  Please note that we still have a few cars left from the first run at a much lower price.

Update #21–May 26, 2019

All–Just a brief note as we enter the summer.

The summer season allows us to catch-up on projects, revise inventory, and update listings.  Accordingly, we will be closed for our Annual Inventory Week beginning May 27 and reopening on or about June 6.  

If you have questions, please e-mail and we will get back to you as soon as we can.  This has been a very busy season and thanks for all your support!

Looking ahead, we will be listing new model trains, including: more collections of vintage and pristine N Scale models; additional N Scale brass in Western Roads such as Southern Pacific; and a variety brass and high quality plastic items in HO and O Scale.  Happy Memorial Day!

 

Update #20–April 11, 2019

All–Time for an update on current developments.

Although the show season is over, we continue to remain very busy.  Just received from Kato USA the Santa F7 A-Units and B-Units; the “Super Chief” 8-car passenger car set plus 4-Car add-on set; and the “El Capitan” 10-car set plus 2-car add-on set. The Atlas Trainman Heavyweight passenger cars just arrived in Central of New Jersey, Boston & Maine, and Rio Grande, both 5-car sets as well as individual cars.  There are also a few Chesapeake & Ohio 5-car sets left.  Finally, there are a small number of Rapido Osgood Bradley Cars remaining in Delaware & Hudson, Southern Pacific Sunset and Two-Tone Gray Scheme, Cotton Belt Daylight, and Canadian National.  Lehigh Valley and New Haven are sold out!

We still have a few of the March and April 2019 Micro-Trains releases, including three numbers of the TTX Fuselage 2-Packs.   Very few of the Atlas 20,00 gallon Pemex Tank Cars (3#s) remain.

For you foreign train operators and collectors, please see our listing of Kato Japanese and European trains.  The models of the European ICE will be here this summer.  Just a few of the fabulous “Seven Stars to Kyushu Luxury Train” remain.

We will keep you posted on new developments.

Update #19–February 23, 2019

All–Just wanted to say that it was great to see old customers and friends, as well meet new people at the recent Amherst (Springfield) and Great Scale Train Shows.

We have been very busy making changes to this website and updating our product listings. First, the web site changes. We have updated as well as added separate pages for N Scale Diesels–Kato, Fox Valley, Broadway Limited & Atlas. We also added in-page linkages to make it easier to browse the Kato listings. We consolidated the N Scale brass sections into a separate entry broken into diesels, steam, passenger car, and caboose sections. There are 30 new listings of Key Imports, KMT (Kumata) and rare Hallmark Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) and Pennsylvania (Pensy) items. The brass listing contains approximately 45-50 items with more Eastern as well as Western Brass to be added soon. Again, if you see an items that interests you, please requests photos.

For you passenger train collectors and operators, the passenger car section has been expanded and will soon include in-page links to make it easier to search. We just listed new release of the Rapido Osgood Bradley cars in: Canadian National, Delaware & Hudson, New Haven, Seaboard, Southern Pacific Two-Tone Gray and SP Sunset colors. Look for a listing of a large number of new or like new B&O and Pensy cars from Bachmann, Centralia Car Shops, Rapido, and Micro-Trains.

Turning to foreign trains, you can view the latest releases of Kato European and Japanese models in the newly-created section on foreign trains. The highly awaited Kato “Seven Stars To Kyushu 8-Car Train” is due in early March. The European (German) ICE train and the Japanese revised Super Komachi Shinkansin Bullet Trains are due this summer.

The N Scale freight car section is being updated and will include in-page links to make it easier to search for items. Watch for many new entries very soon!

Turning to HOn3, there are a small number of new Blackstone Tsunami-equipped models remaining–1 K27 and 5 or 6 C19s. All freight cars are sold but there is still some PECO Flex Track and Switches in stock. The second run of the Blackstone D&RGW 30′ refrigerator cars should arrive this spring.

The HO Brass section as well as the O Scale section will be updated after we complete the N Scale freight cars.

Rather than take more time away from you browsing our site, just want to thank you again for your business and support. YOU–OUR CUSTOMERS–ARE OUR MOST VALUABLE AND TREASURED RESOURCE!

Look for us at the March 9-10, 2019, Greenberg Train Show at the Raritan Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey. Best to All! Bernie

Update #18–January 21, 2019

All–We look forward to seeing you at the Amherst (Springfield), Mass.) Railroad Show this weekend. We are located in the Better Living Center Building Section 17. The operating display will feature 6 N Scale trains (mostly DCC & Sound) plus a tram operation run simultaneously.

There will be several surprises; including a large N Scale Pennsylvania Collection of passenger cars and some diesels; a big N Scale Brass Collection of Pennsylvania, Baltimore & Ohio, and Southern Pacific items; many DCC-equipped Kato and Fox Valley Models diesels; as well as new freight cars; and, of course Unitrak! For our customers that model foreign prototype trains, there will be a good selection of Japanese and some European N Scale train sets.

There will also be some surprises for HO customers, including brass models, Broadway Hybrids, some Kato diesels, and over one dozen new Blackstone HOn3 locomotives.

Looking forward to seeing everyone!

 

Update #17–January 4, 2019

Just a brief note to inform you that we will be displaying and selling at the World’s Greatest Hobby Show (WGH) in Oaks, Pennsylvania (outside of Philadelphia) on Saturday-Sunday, January 12-13, 2019. WGH is an outstanding show for railroad fans of all ages. There will be many manufacturers, outstanding modular layouts, clinics, as well as amusements for the youngsters. We are bringing the large display (6 operating trains), as well as our smaller layout that features operating trams going around 12″-14″ circles of N Scale track. Looking forward to seeing everyone!

Update #16 — December 29, 2018

All–Thanks for your support in making 2018 a terrific year! We look to provide more new and rare items at highly attractive prices, as well as an update to the web site in 2019.

As 2018 draws to a close we have updated our N Scale Inventory of locomotive, passenger cars, and freight cars. We still have a good selection of Fox Valley Models diesel locomotives, H30 hoppers in Penn Central and Norfolk & Western, and B&O Wagon Top Cabooses, as well Wheels of Time freight and passenger cars.

New arrivals include more Kato SD70ACEs in “The Spirit” and Traditional Yellow schemes in analog and DCC. We managed to locate more “brand new” BLMA CEFX 5660′ Trinity Hoppers and some older Micro-Trains freight cars. There is also have a good selection of Kato-built Japanese and European trains ranging from large streamlined trains sets to small mountain railroad sets that run on 6″-7″ radius curved track. We will soon be adding a listing of Kato centrams and starter sets with trams.

In January, we will list a large selection of N Scale Key Imports and Hallmark Pennsylvania and Baltimore & Ohio brass, including PRR Decapods, Mountains, and diesels. There will also be a large number of new and test run only Micro-Trains, Centralia Car Shops, and Rapido heavyweight and streamlined passenger cars.

Turning to HOn3, only a handful of Blackstone K27s and C19s remain, mostly 1 or 2 of each model. The freight cars are sold out and we are running low on Peco flex track and switches. If interested, please contact ASAP!

We wish all a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous 2019 and look forward to seeing you at the Amherst Society Railroad Show in Springfield, Massachusetts on January 26-27.

 

Update #15 — December 4, 2018

Great to see many of you, as well as meet new customers at the recent Greenberg Train Show in Edison, New Jersey!

Many new arrivals, including a large number of Kato-built Japanese and European models. The arrivals include: Dr. Yellow powered and unpowered inspection car sets; “681” Series Shirasagi 6-Car Express; EF65 Freight Diesel in Blue; the Ishikawa “521” Series 2-Car sets in purple or violet; the Hakone Tozan Mountain Railway 4-Car set; various freight cars; and the Swiss 4-Car add-on sets for the Rhatische Bahn Railway.

This week we expect to receive DCC-equipped versions of the Kato SD70ACe Union Pacific “The Spirit.” There will also be 3#s of the analog version of the Union Pacific SD70ACe Nose Headlight Version in yellow. We also expect to receive the new Karo power packs, as well as more Kato Trams (Black, White, and Silver), and Virginia Railway Express sets.

Look forward to seeing you at the Greenberg Train and Toy Show at the Chantilly, Virginia Expo Center on December 15-16.

 

Update #14 — November 17, 2018

Just a brief update on developments. We completed updating a large section of our website including: N locomotives plastic and brass; N Scale Kato & Micro-Trains passenger car sets; N Scale Unitrack; Japanese and European N foreign train offerings; as well as HO brass and plastic and Balckstone Hon3. We are working on listing the remaining individual N passenger cars as well as adding new brass and plastic consignment items, followed by freight cars.

The update revealed that we are running very low on Kato SD70ACes, all Norfolk Southern diesels, Broadway E and F Units, as well as Fox Valley GEVOS. Regarding Fox Valley, we are done to 1 or 2 of each unit.

For our Hon3 customers, we are well below 20 models of K27s and C19s. The factory is virtually sold out of these Tsunami sound-equipped models. Once these are gone, there will be no more!

New items continue to arrive almost daily. We still have a few Kato Union Pacific SD70ACes “The Spirit” in analog. DCC-equiped units will arrive shortly. The first shipment of Broadway Limited Pennsylvania T1 (4-4-4-4) Duplexes with DCC & Sound has arrived and is selling out fast. Order now to avoid being disappointed!

Looking forward to seeing you at the Greenberg Train Show at the Raritan Center in Edison, New Jersey on November 24-25. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

 

Update #13 — November 5, 2018

Welcome! There are many developments to discuss. First, the analog version of the Kato Union Pacific SD70ACe “The Spirit” have arrived. DCC-equipped versions will arrive in two weeks. These units are selling out fast so do not delay!

The long awaited Broadway Limited Imports N Scale version of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s T1 Duplex (4-4-4-4) equipped with DCC and Sound should arrive late this week. Demand for these models is among the highest we have seen for N Scale steam locomotives. We are nearly fully reserved but there are a handful not spoken for. If interested, lease contact us ASAP!

A large N Scale brass collection consisting of Pennsylvania and Baltimore and Ohio prototype models just arrived. We are testing and cataloging these units and they should be online within the next week. There are approximately 30 units, including: Key Imports PRR T1s, Decapods, Mountains, Texas J1 2-10-4s, as well as other models. For the B&O fans, there are factory and custom painted 4-8-2s, 2-10-2s, 4-6-2s, as well as the Cincinnattian locos and passenger cars.

We are in the process of updating our listings so look for more Kato, Micro-Trains passenger cars, freight cars, large runner packs, as well as a few surprises, including more Fox Valley Models Baltimore & Ohio Wagon Top Cabeese. There are also a number of Fox Valley GEVOs and older, scarce Kato SD70ACes.

Look for us at the following train shows November through early February:

November 24-25, 2018: The Greenberg Train Show at the Raritan Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey.

December 15-16, 2018: The Greenberg Train Show at the Chantilly Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

January 26-27, 2019: Amherst Railway Society Train Show. Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield, Massachusetts. We will be located in the Better Living Center Building, Area 17. Please join us to celebrate our 10th anniversary show at Springfield!

February 2-3, 2019: Great Scale Model Train Show, Maryland State Fairgrounds, Cow Palace, Center Hall, Timonium, Maryland.

 

Update #12 — October 1, 2018

Fall is here, the children and grand children are back in school, and it is time to to get back to model trains.

Many new items have arrived, including: Kato Union Pacific E8/9s in analog and DCC; the 11-Car UP City of Los Angeles passenger trains; the new “Operation North Pole” Christmas train set consisting of a beautifully painted and lettered F40PH and 5 holiday cars; and new Gunderson MAXI-IV Twinstacks TTX with New and Old Logos (Canadian National containers and EMP in Green).

Also have received many new MicroTrains and some Broadway sound and DCC-equipped Pennsylvania Railroad models–F3s; F7s; E7s; and E8s. Broadway HO includes the brass hybrid Chesapeake & Ohio J3A (4-8-4) with DCC. Sound & Smoke. Fantastic model and selling out rapidly! The N Scale PRR T1 Duplex is now due in early November.

Turning to narrow gauge, we have seen increased interest in Blackstone models. The C19s have sold out but we still have a handful of K27s remaining. Given the price of brass models and the increasing cost of new releases from China, these sound-equipped K27s represent excellent value as well as the highest operating qualities. If you are in Hon3, do not delay because once gone there will be no more! As of my posting this update, there are approximately 17 models remaining.

Just a heads up to you Pennsylvania fans as we expect to receive by the end of this month the first installment of a large collection including many Key and Precision Scale brass models, Kato and Broadway locos, passenger car sets, and many Micro-Trains freight cars. Many of these items are either new or have only been run briefly. Stay tuned!

We will be at the Great Berea Train Show this weekend and look forward to seeing you there. Until next month best to all!

 

Update #11 — September 4, 2018

It was great to see our customers and meet many more new faces at the August Edison and Chantilly Train Shows, as well as the recent 50th O scale National Convention!

The new model train season is now beginning. The hobby is alive and well. The models imported, particularly N Scale, are of the highest quality and variety ever seen.

Just a brief note on photos. The web site contains a handful of photos, but there are hyperlinks to most manufacturers. If there is an item you are interested in purchasing, particularly some of out brass offerings, please request photos which we will gladly send to your e-mail address. We can respond to most requests within 24 hours, if not sooner.

We are currently updating the web site to include new releases: Kato Union Pacific “City of Los Angeles” 11-Car Set; Kato E9 A-Units and B-Units with Nose Heralds available in analog or DCC; soon the Broadway Limited Pennsylvania T1 Duplex (4-4-4-4) w/Sound and DCC; as well as many new Micro-Trains releases. There will be some brass items from collections recently acquired.

Between now and the end of 2018, look for us at the following train shows:

October 6-7, 2018: The Great Berea Train Show at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds which is located just south of the Cleveland Hopkins Airport. The NMRA Division IV sponsors this outstanding show.

October 27-28, 2018: The Great Scale Model Train Show, Maryland Fairgrounds, Cow Palace, Timonium, Maryland.

November 24-25, 2018: The Greenberg Train Show at the Raritan Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey. We are located in Row BB, Tables 1-8. Look for our operating display of 6 N Scale Trains as well as Trams!

December 15-16, 2018: The Greenberg Train Show at the Chantilly Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

 

Update #10 — August 8, 2018

Busy month as we prepare for shows in Edison, New Jersey, Chantilly, Virginia, and Rockville, Maryland.

Just a few words on the recent closure of a large Chinese manufacturer and supplier of trains to the U.S. market. Business cycles, land values, labor costs, and related issues, whether in China or another country, drive companies to make decisions regarding business operations. Some companies go out of business while new entrants enter the market to take their places.

The affected American companies are doing everything within their power to seek new suppliers and there should be a new business equilibrium in the near future. Often as doors close, others open with new suppliers, products, and technologies. We remain optimistic and urge our customers to be patient. Enough said!

Just received Kato SD70MACs Alaska and BNSF in analog and DCC versions. Models selling out rapidly, particularly Alaska version. The analog version of the Union Pacific E8/9 A-Units (w/Nose Herald) and B-Units just arrived. The Micro-Trains, including Cotton Belt Daylight and Rio Grande passenger car heavyweight sets, are here. The Kato reissue of the 11-car “City of Los Angeles” passenger set is due in September. Fall will also bring the Broadway N Scale Pennsylvania T1 Duplex with DCC and Sound.

Looking forward to seeing you at the shows! Please “Like Us” and “Follow Us” on Facebook and Twitter!

 

Update #9 July 19, 2018

Kato USA: The analog version of the Kato Alaska SD70MACs (Nose Headlight Version) just arrived. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe version is due in several days. DCC-equipped models set to arrive sometime in August. These very popular models are selling out quickly. The SD70ACE Union Pacific “The Spirit”, as well as E9s and the “City of Los Angeles” passenger car sets also due in August-September. We also will be listing shortly reservations for a large number of Kato Japanese prototype models.

Broadway Limited Imports: There are just a few Broadway Limited Imports Pennsylvania Railroad E7/8 and F-3/7 sets remaining. The arrival date for the Broadway N Scale Pennsylvania T1 Duplex (6 separate numbers) has been moved back to mid-September. The HO Chesapeake & Ohio J3A Greenbriar with smoke, sound and DCC arrives in September. Reserve now as just a few are remaining.

Atlas: The Norfolk Southern SD60Es w/Lok Sound arrive in the late fall. The run includes the very colorful and popular “9/11” and “First Responder” Logos. Another run of the popular 60′ heavyweight passenger car sets due this fall. Road names include: Denver & Rio Grande; Central of New Jersey; Boston & Maine; New York Central; and Grand Trunk Western. Models will be available in 5-car sets or as individual cars with multiple road numbers.

Micro-Trains: The July run is here. We have a few Cotton Belt Daylight 5-car sets left, as well as several sets of the very popular PFE reefer 16-packs weathered only. Rio Grande heavyweight 5-packs due shortly as well as more weathered freight cars. The repaints of the Union Pacific two tone heavyweight observation cars just arrived. Please check freight car listing for new many Micro-Trains cars and runner packs.

Rapido: This company just announced a new N Scale diesel locomotive–a model of the General Electric Dash 8-40CM in four major liveries. The liveries will include: two Canadian National (CN) paint schemes, British Columbia Railroad, and the Quebec North Shore & Labrador. Rapido will offer prototype correct versions of the CN and BCR units.

We will be attending three shows in August, including:

August 11-12, 2018: Greenberg Train Show at the Raritan Center in Edison, New Jersey.

August 18-19, 2018: Greenberg Train Show at the Chantilly Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia

August 23-26, 2018: O Scale 50th National Convention at the Hilton Hotel in Rockville, Maryland

 

Update #8b June 20, 2018

The latest run of Broadway E-Units and F-Units equipped with Paragon 3 Sound arrived about a week ago. We are nearly sold out save for 1-2 sets of Pennsylvania F3s, F7s, E7s, and one number of the E8 A-Unit. There are also 1 or 2 Southern Pacific Golden State ABB sets remaining. The June Micro-Trains have arrived and include a Union Pacific two-tone gray paired window coach, Southern Pacific husky 70′ well cars, and other items. We should receive the Micro-Trains Cotton Belt Daylight Heavyweight 5-Car Sets, Burlington Northern 4-Packs, Ringling Ad Cars #5 & #6, as well as weathered cars ( Railbox, KCS Butterfly & MOPAC) within a week. The Kato SD70MACs in Alaska and BNSF are due in 2-3 weeks.

Update #8 June 4, 2018

Summer is finally here! We open the summer this weekend at the Great Scale Train Show at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, Maryland. Look for us in the Exhibition Hall. Here are some of the new products that we will have at the show: more Fox Valley B&O Wagon Top cabooses; the May and June 2018 Micro-Trains releases; Kato TGV Reseau 10-car high speed passenger train; Broadway Limited’s sound-equipped F3s; a collection of C&NW and Milwaukee freight cars; Kato’s automated crossing gates; and much more.

Update #7 May 14, 2018

On June 9-10, 2018 we will be at the Great Scale Train Show at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, in Timonium, Maryland. Please note that the Great Scale Train Show’s summer show is a smaller show and will be in the Exhibition Hall rather than the Cow Palace. We traditionally have a smaller presence at this show, so if you are looking for certain items, please contact us in advance of the show.

Update #6 May 13, 2018

Just a brief note to let you know that we completed updating the N Scale freight car listings.

In the next 30 days, we plan to add more products including: (1) more N Scale brass items; (2) additional freight cars such as autoracks and 3-car sets of Red Caboose Coil Cars; (3) more passenger cars; (4) a section on “Special Sale Items”; and (5) a section for you to make Advance Reservations.

Update #5 May 10, 2018

Just completed updating the N Scale passenger car section. We still have a few Centralia Car Shops Pullman Standard 52′ Coaches in: C&NW; Nickel Plate; and Southern Pacific Sunset Limited. The remainder of the year features some great passenger car equipment such as Kato’s new run of the 11-Car Union Pacific “City of Los Angeles” set, as well as matching Union Pacific E9 units with the nose decals.

Turning to heavyweight trains, Micro-Trains will release this summer 5-Car Heavyweight sets in the SP-Cotton Belt Daylight Scheme and Rio Grande in the gold and 4-stripe scheme.

InterMountain has announced for Fall delivery Centralia Car Shops 13 Double Bedroom Sleepers in many popular schemes, including Pennsylvania “Fleet of Modernism” (4 #s); Pennsylvania Tuscan 3-Stipe (4 names); Southern Pacific Sunset (4 #s); Southern Pacific Lark as delivered (4 #s); a re-release of the later Southern Pacific Lark in the dark gray scheme (4 new #s); New York 20th Century Limited (4 names); New York Central Postwar 1946 (4 names); Ferrocarriles Nacionales de Mexico (4 names); Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey (4#s); and Long Island (3 names).

Update #4 May 8, 2018

Just a brief note to inform you that we have completed updating the N Scale locomotives section. It now includes the new Kato Amtrak F40PH Early and P42 Phase V Late releases in analog and digital; more F3 A and B-Units Western Pacific, as well as PA A and B-Units Rio Grande (both analog and digital) to pull your California Zephyr passenger car trains; and the new TGV Reseau 10-Car French modern passenger train set.

Tomorrow, we begin updating the passenger and freight cars, including the May 2018 Micro-Trains releases which arrived today.

For you traction fans, we are now offering a special on the Kato Unitram. We are selling a tram (green or white) and a loop of Unitram track in the correct American roadway scheme. Our special price will be $250- for the Tram and the Unitram track set. This represents a savings of approximately $125- over the price of the tram and track set when available for separate sale. Please order now as quantities are very limited.

 

Update #3 May 3, 2018

We are very appreciative of your continued strong response to our web site. Since the opening of the site last October we have experienced a very large turnover of items, and are in the process of updating the site. So far, we have updated the HOn3 Blackstone items; HO/HoN3 brass models; N scale Unitrak; Kato Amtrak items, including passenger cars; and foreign N Scale models such as Eurostar and the new TGV Reseau 10-car set. We will be updating within the next week: the N Scale locomotives; the Micro-Trains runner packs; and possibly N Scale passenger and freight cars.

Meanwhile here is a brief rundown of new arrivals, as well as future releases by manufacturer:

Atlas: Trainman heavyweight passenger cars almost sold out. Only a few C&O and Santa Fe single cars remain. Coming late summer-early fall is a special run of Norfolk Southern SD60s.

Broadway Limited Imports: Just a handful of ES44ACs and AC6000s remain. Due in a few weeks are the EMD E6/7/8 A-Unit and B-Unit diesels with sound and DCC. Broadway will follow-up later this year with the Pennsylvania Railroad T1 Duplex 4-4-4-4 steam locomotive, as well as F3 and F7 diesels in many road names. We have seen the test model of the T1 and it is outstanding!

Fox Valley Models: Fox will releasing this summer a large number of the highly colorful and popular “CSX/Chessie” GEVOS in the following schemes: Clinchfield; RF&P; Chesapeake & Ohio; Monon; New Haven McGinnis; Atlantic Coast Line; Louisville & Nashville; Seaboard; and Seaboard Family Lines. Do not miss the opportunity to acquire the outstanding FOX GEVO in the famous 1950s paint schemes. Fox will follow-up with reruns of earlier GEVO models in: Florida East Coast; Burlington Northern Santa Fe Swoosh (BNSF); Citirail; GE Evolution Hybrid; CSX Safety Train; Iowa Interstate in Red; and Chessie System. Fox also makes outstanding freight cars such as the B&O Wagon top box cars and cabeese, as well as the 3000′ and 4700′ covered hoppers.

InterMountain: A handful of Centralia Car Shops passenger cars left in Southern Pacific Sunset Limited, Nickel Plate, and C&NW. New cars due in September in Pennsylvania “Fleet of Modernism”, Pennsylvania Tuscan 3-Stripe; Southern Pacific Lark early and late paint schemes, Southern Pacific Sunset Limited, and New York Central “Twentieth Century” and post-1946 scheme.

Kato: We just received the following: Amtrak EMD F40PH Phase III (3 #s) in analog and DCC; Amtrak P42 Late Phase V (2 #s) in analog and DCC; Denver & Rio Grande Alco PA A-Units (2#s) and B-Unit (1#) in analog and DCC; Western Pacific F3 A-Units (2#s) and B-Unit (1#) in analog and DCC; Amtrak Phase III and Phase V autorack sets; and reload of Amtrak Phase III and IV 4-car passenger car sets. New releases due in the next months are SD70MACs in Alaska Railroad and BNSF; EMD SD70ACe “the Spirit’ and Union Pacific Nose Headlight locos; EMD Union Pacific “Nose Hera;d” E9 A-Unit and B-Unit engines; a new release of the Union Pacific 11-car “City of Los Angeles” passenger train; and Gunderson Maxi-IV TTX 5-car set in Old and New Logos. The only new foreign set is the just arrived TGV 10-car Reseau set. Very few left as of this update.

Micro-Trains: The May 2018 releases arrive late next week. They include: Union Pacific two-tone gray Mail Baggage; Pennsylvania double door 50′ box car; Canadian National caboose; Heinz Car #9; Baltimore & Ohio covered hopper; Allied (Orange) 48′ containers (2#s); Northern Pacific 36′ box car; Western Pacific 40′ special boxcar; and Railbox graffiti “Easter” 50′ box car. The Rio Grande and Southern Pacific woodchip runner packs are sold out. Mid-month brings the Pacific Fruit Express 16-packs (individual numbers) reefers in the unweathered and weathered schemes, as well as SP cabeese. We also located a number of new, “out-of-production” runner packs that we will be posting over the weekend.

Rapido: Get your reservations in now for the very popular Osgood Bradley passenger cars due soon.

O Scale: Watch for a major update soon. We also look forward to meeting you at the O Scale 50th National Convention in Rockvile, Maryland. The convention will take place at the Rockville Hilton between August 23-26th.

Meanwhile, look for us at the following train shows:

August 11-12, 2018: Greenberg Train at Raritan Center in Edison, New Jersey.

August 18-19, 2018: Greenberg Train Show at Chantilly Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

August 23-26, 2018: O Scale 50th National Convention at the Hilton Hotel in Rockville, Maryland.

October 6-7, 2018. Carnival of Model Railroading at the Fairgrounds in Berea, Ohio. Located outside of Cleveland, Ohio and near the Cleveland Hopkins Airport.

 

Update #2 March 1, 2018

Welcome! Thank you for your response to our web site. Recent shows in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Virginia, as well as responses to our web site, demonstrate the vitality of our hobby and the growing appeal of N Scale. We are in the process of updating our inventory and adding many new and hard-to-find items.

Meanwhile, we will be at the following train shows:

March 10-11, 2018: World’s Greatest Hobby, New Jersey Expo Center, Edison, New Jersey, Booth #219.

March 17-18, 2018: Railfest 2018, Lakeland Community College, Kirtland, Ohio. Note: Located just north of Cleveland, this is the largest model train show in Ohio.

April 14-15, 2018: Great Scale Model Train Show, Maryland State Fairgrounds, Cow Palace, Timonium, Maryland.

 

Update #1 October 24, 2017

Our first update covers new products, as well as provides a listing of the shows we be attending in November, December, January, and February.

New products continue to arrive with the opening of the train season. Kato USA is releasing models of the CB&Q E5 A-Units with the red & black nose stripes. Models are available in analog and DCC versions. The beginning of November should mark the arrival of the Milwaukee Road Olympian Hiawatha FP-7s and matching 9-car passenger car sets. The DCC-equipped units should arrive later in November. We also received the new run of Fox Valley Models GEVOS in the CSX Heritage road names, including: Chessie System (CSXT), CSX, Conrail, Georgia Railroad, Nashville, Chattanooga & Tennessee, New York Central, Pittsburgh & Lake Erie, Seaboard, Seaboard System, and Western Maryland. We have also custom installed Train Controls System (TCS) DCC in many of these units.

We continue to expand our offerings in DCC in response to your request for electronic capabilities in your model train products. Traditionally, we ordered one or two DCC units to go along with twelve analog units. Today, out sales are far more tilted to DCC. Our custom installations of TCS DCC have been well received with sales of hundreds of units.

From time-to-time we will have special sales on select items. Currently, we are having a special sales on 4-packs of the N Scale Rapido GARX Meat Reefers. There is also a special sale on Kato HO Unitrak and certain Blackstone HOn3 models.

If you have not met us, we look forward to meeting you at one of the following train shows:

November 4-5, 2017: Great Model Train Fair, New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, New York.

November 25-26, 2017: Greenberg Train Show, New Jersey Expo Center, Edison, New Jersey.

December 16-17, 2017: Greenberg Train Show, Dulles Expo Center, Chantilly, Virginia.

January 27-28, 2018: Amherst Railway Society Train Show, Eastern States Exposition Grounds, Springfield, Massachusetts, Better Living Center Building, Area 17.

February 3-4, 2018: Great Scale Model Train Show, Maryland State Fairgrounds, Cow Palace, Timonium, Maryland.

Now Available: the Kato N Scale passenger Hiawatha train: