I am looking for a sky back drop for my layout. I have tried to reach Dave at Backdrop Junction. Does anyone know if they are still in business? 

http://www.backdropjunction.com

Can you suggest other places to by backdrops? 

Thanks

Graham 

I recently ballasted some switches for the first time. I have made certain to clean all guard rails and frogs of any ballast and cleaned the track. Locomotives that passed through the switches without an issue before ballasting now hang up or loose power at the frogs. I tried three different locos with the same results. 

I am using Atlas Customer Line Code 100 switches. 

Does anyone have any suggestions. Thanks in advance 

I have been reading about cleaning track with rubbing alcohol and a lint free cloth.  Does this impact ballast fixed with Scenic Cement from Woodland Scenics? 

How often is it recommended to clean track with the alcohol? 

I am at the stage where I want to paint my track but need some pointers please.  

I have seen other who have used a rattle can of cammo paint but not sure what color is best.  

Second concern is, how do you protect turn outs so they do not get "glued" by the paint? 

Third question, how do you wipe down the tops of the rails after spraying to ensure connectivity? 

Thanks all!!!

Curious to see who has used these and how you liked them - pics of your finished projects would be great.

Moderator: edited subject line.

I am considering using two of the Downtown Deco flats (Alley and Factory) on my layout.

Does anyone have any experience with these kids that could give some feedback or provide some pictures of how they look on a layout?

Thanks
Graham

Building my first layout and wondering if you can mix Atlas and Peco code 83 track and turnouts?

Thanks for the guidence

First timer starting my first layout after many years of arm-chairing the hobby...... Will be basing my layout of a shelf design I found on this site https://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/17099. I will be making the shelves a bit deeper to allow a little more room and track flexibility. Wish me luck lol