Picked up a $20 Florida East Coast SW1200 switcher at a local thrift shop and couldn’t pass it up. In this post, I kick off the rebuild project by sharing why I buy used locomotives, what to look for when scouting secondhand models, and my plan to bring this one back to life with DCC, LEDs, and custom upgrades.
We often treat creativity and art as if they’re the same—but they’re not. I’ve been sitting with this for a while, and it’s leading me in a new direction with my modeling. One that feels more personal, more alive. Here’s why I’m moving into freelance model railroading and how I plan to bring more of myself into my work.
Final wiring is done and ditch lights are in! In this phase of the KNR 90 rebuild, I wrap up the electrical work and share a few thoughts for those getting started with model upgrades. A few simple tools, some patience, and a steady hand—that’s all it takes to bring your models to life.
Ever start a project with all the energy in the world, only to feel like the wheels just stop turning? You’re not alone. Here’s what I discovered about that feeling—and why it might not be a bad thing.
Sometimes the best tools are the ones you build yourself. Here’s how I put together an airbrush turntable that’s made my model painting easier, cleaner, and more fun—even if the first attempt wasn’t perfect.
The fun part begins—painting the KNR90. I made a few subtle modifications, experimented with black primer, and dove head-first into learning the quirks of acrylic paint. It’s not perfect, but it’s progress—and sometimes that’s more important.
Need better control over your airbrush setup? In this video, I show you how I built a simple and affordable airbrush pressure regulator with a built-in moisture filter using parts from Harbor Freight. This rig helps me quickly adjust pressure and keep moisture out of the line—especially important in humid environments like mine.
Welcome to the garage! In this video, I walk you through my current airbrush setup—built from repurposed materials and made to be functional, affordable, and easy to replicate. Whether you’re new to airbrushing or just looking for setup ideas, I share what’s worked for me and how you can build something similar.
In this post, I reflect on a question every model railroader gets eventually—“Why model trains?” For me, it’s about more than locomotives and layouts. It’s a creative space where all my passions—3D design, electronics, photography, and problem-solving—come together. This is the story behind that answer.
Learn how I fit a full-size DH187D decoder into a Proto 2000 SW900 switcher. Step-by-step process, resistor tricks, custom parts, and tips for working with LEDs in tight spaces.