Another topic got me thinking, https://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/42632 . Most of us have attachments to multiple railroads, yet most of us choose one railroad, time, and place to model. 

What railroads are you particularly fond of or have memories of and why did you pick to model what you model over other interesting choices?

I'll start.

What would be the most common diesel locomotive that Union Pacific would have been using in the grain belt during the 1960s-1980s for operations? The SD40 was a latecomer, and -2s weren't out yet.  SD24s? GP9s? GP30s? GP35s? None of these?

I used the yearly listing in UtahRails.net and saw these as common acquisitions during the late '50s and '60s.

Any input would be appreciated.

Unfortunately, what I have now are post 1980s and covered wagons.  Go figure. (exceptions, an SD40 and GP38)

I inherited two Atlas Kato RS-3 locos recently.  They were in great running shape but the shells needed some work. Stripping and repainting/decaling has them  looking quite good. But I have a small problem - there are no handrails. I have searched the internet.  On the Atlas and Kato websites they  list the parts as SOLD OUT - nothing on Ebay or other sales sites.

Does anyone have a clue as to where i can  find available handrails for this RS-3 model?

Glad for any help.

Joseph

I acquired two HO locos (streamliners with dummies attached) from a garage sale for cheap.  Both run on my standard DC layout - but in reverse only.  Can't get them to run forwards even by switching track polarity.  Found these circuit boards inside both.  Looks like an early form of DCC but the blue trimmer device is making me question this.

Any idea what these are?