One advantage of using sheets of homasote as a base layer for my roadbed is that the sheets have slightly natural dips and crests. This is an advantage when modeling an older branch line because those gentle rolling waves are realistic when viewed from a lower angle. 

I didn’t plan it this way, but it’s a nice discovery.

Are there any means in modern times to move a freight car without an engine?

Let's assume there is an industry which receives some bulk material in a covered hopper. It can be unloaded in an underground bunker, but only one outlet at the same time, then the car has to be moved until the next outlet is over the bunker. 

There are several professional streetlights on the market. Although some of them are reasonably priced, making it your self gives a lot more satisfaction.

Here is how I make them:

To make a simple streetlight we need the following parts:

- Brass tube (1 -1.5mm diameter, 2 – 3″ long)

- 3mm led

- Washer with 3mm hole

- Piece of wire

- Resistor

- Centerpoint and hammer

- Solder iron

- Pair of pliers

I needed to remove some lettering from a Rivarossi steam loco so I did a search of the forum. Lots of good ideas including my method of using oven cleaner. However the family is in the house and when I get an idea in my head I won't let it go so I needed a less smelly solution for tonight. I tried 99% alcohol. It removed the black paint just fine but didn't touch the white lettering. I tried Solvaset with no result. Then I tried erasing the lettering with a pencil eraser. No luck.