More train stuff…

Rod’s been in touch again. He’s been on his travels – I do love all the odd train stuff that comes in:

“A trip behind ‘Himalayan Bird’ to Ghoom and back on the ‘Toy train’ tourist shuttle.

The loco is a Sharp, Stewart B class 0-4-0ST dating from 1892

First, just out of Darjeeling, a roadside stop to take water and some local advice on getting the injector to run nicely.

Secondly, firing up at the stop for the Gurkha memorial in the spiral loop at Batasia. Much easier when you can stand more or less upright and see what you’re doing.

Third, ‘Bird’ waiting departure time at Ghoom, showing the line laid right through the village street and an old pillarbox.

The line is a World Heritage site and there’s quite a few museums and explanatory notices.

Finally, is it a bird? The personalised cylinder jacket.

Rod”

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Rod’s also posted some cracking stuff on the site:

Rod changes a chassis

Rod’s layout

More from Rod

And now more from Dangerous Dave.

He’s sent in another video – I thought by now I’d be getting tired of them – but no.

Every time I watch one I see something new and different on his layout.

Have a look and you’ll see what I mean:



Latest ebay cheat sheet is here.

Hope you enjoyed Dave’s vid and Rod’s pics as much as I did.

It’s wonderful to see all the interesting stuff in my inbox – I have no idea why but I’m utterly fascinated by all things rail.

Only last night I was watching a rail documentary and I found out about a chap called the wheel tapper: his job was to tap all of the train wheels to find the ones with cracks in.

Amazing stuff from a golden era.

That’s all this time folks. Please do keep ’em coming.

And if you’re wondering how Dangerous Dave got his name, the answer is here.

The Beginner’s Guide is here if you want to follow in Rod and Dave’s footsteps.

Best

Al

PS Latest ebay cheat sheet is here.

PPS More HO scale train layouts here if that’s your thing.





20 Responses to More train stuff…

  1. Frank Snyder says:

    So awesome Dave! Your videos are amazing! I wish my apartment was as big as your train room! Lol! All kidding aside, Al Rod and Dave, I have been collecting model trains since my father gave me my first Lionel set on Christmas morning 1960! I have built many platforms over the years. My two best were N scale and HO. No way am I as talented as you guys are. I would like to thank all of you at Alistair’s site. I have actually been recovering from 3 major back surgeries since August 24th last year. I live my dream platform through you guys! Thanks to all of you for helping me get through this horrible year. Frank S.

  2. Dave Fairfull says:

    The Himalayan Bird photos are awesome Rod. Dave I know exactly what you mean about what has been on tv. thanks for the entertainment Guys! Get well soon Frank.

    Dave F.
    Elora, Canada

  3. dave says:

    Saw a good show about the toy train years ago on discovery channel they used to have a man standing on the front sprinkling sand on the rails for traction and one on top of the cab breaking up coal into pieces small enough to fit in its fire box in those days it was a major link for locals for transportation glad they saved it from the scrap heap unlike most of the other steam locomotives in India

  4. Jim Saccento says:

    Hi Dave. You’re quite the video producer. I especially like the “ground level” shots.

  5. NJ Mark says:

    For all of those who live in the NY NJ area, take a day on the weekend and visit Allaire State Park in Monmouth County. They have a mile long circle, narrow gauge track, which is used by the Pine Creek Railroad. There are a bunch of great people who have restored (and operate) vintage steam engines and rail cars. For a couple of bucks you can ride 2 loops and see what it was like to travel many years ago. The money goes back into the restoration process.
    Also, visit the rest of the park. It is a Revolutionary era iron works and is quite interesting! Cheers! NJ Mark

  6. don a kadunc says:

    I’m curious. There seems to be a false wall at one end of your layout. Do you crawl under the layout to get in and out? Are there stairs? Also, do you ever do switching sessions?

  7. Don says:

    Better ‘n TV anytime!!!

  8. d j howarth says:

    In answer to the false wall , yes I do have to climb under to get in to the layout …switching ..just occasional …..Dangerous Dave

  9. Cary B says:

    Al, Love Rods tour pics and Dave’s videos are always a treat, keep them coming.

    Cary B

  10. Helmut Eppich says:

    Always nice to see videos from your grand layout. One gets caught up in all of its high detail. After watching quite a few of them, becoming very comfortable with it. Never grow bored with watching your layout runs. Completely enjoyable and relaxing. Your right. Definitely beats watching X-Factor!

  11. Ken Stramel says:

    Thank you I will, and thanks for the pleasant Vidio.

  12. Helmut Eppich says:

    Excellent video as always! Still can’t used to the layout’s size and scope, but that’s one fun part of it all. Keep on chugging along!

  13. Jim AZ says:

    Thanks, Al for the updates and supporting this great and wonderful hobby. And to all those who contribute, great thanks to you as well.
    Dave’s videos always provide entertainment, ideas and inspiration.
    Now that cool weather has come to the desert, it’s time to get back to the layout in my garage (I’m always envious of folks who have large attics and basements).
    It’s time for track cleaning and general maintenance and hopefully another video update.

    Jim AZ

  14. Ronald Sheppard says:

    Al, you’re right. You would think that Dave would wear you out with videos, but they are always different and I enjoy them immensely. They get better and better. I am fascinated by the collection of engines and rolling stock. I play the videos 2 -3 times and watch the background for new things, detail, and most of all ideas to try on my layout. Don’t stop now Dave!!
    Ron
    Daytona Beach, FL

  15. Harry (down under) says:

    Dave you are a absolute inspiration. Much appreciated – have learnt so much from watching you for a
    Number of years. Thank you

  16. jack masarie says:

    What makes “Dave’s” layout so great is the ratio of locos, rolling stock, structures,
    scenery, motor vehicles, and PEOPLE.
    Shlack in NC

  17. Rob Schweitzer says:

    Dangerous Dave = International Model Railroad Treasure!
    Loved the video sir, the ground level shots are sooo real. Please keep them coming.
    Rob Schweitzer
    St. Goar & Murren Scenic Railway
    Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA

  18. Erick says:

    Look pretty kool

  19. Norman Kayler says:

    Dave it is always a pleasure! 🚂🚂🚂

  20. Regel L Bisso says:

    Dave:
    Love your videos. Your layout looks huge. What are the dimensions of your layout?

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