Library - Magazine Articles by Tom Houle

A Simple-to-Build Scratchbuilt On30 Engine Shed

Model Railroading 2005-07 pg. 28     Scale: (none)     Category: "Structures - Depots/Stations/Yards"

Based on the C&NW prototype, the author built this model from plans. Although there is some scale-specific material in the article, there is no reason one can't build one in another scale using this article. Construction photos, scale drawings, and a bill of materials are included.

A Tale of Two Rail & Tie Cars

O Scale Trains Magazine 32 May 2007 pg. 38     Scale: O     Category: "M.O.W. Equipment"

This installment of the article describes how the author scratchbuilt the a steam/transition-era rail and tie car. These cars were used to haul ties and rail to the track laying work site. Includes a drawing of the various parts and a parts list.

A Tale of Two Rail & Tie Cars Part Two

O Scale Trains Magazine 33 July 2007 pg. 15     Scale: O     Category: "Freight Cars - Flat Cars"

In this installment the author describes how he built the car out of styrene. Includes some drawings and construction photos.

Building a Western Scale Models O Scale Machine Shop & Radial Drill Press

Model Railroading 2005-12 pg. 36     Scale: O     Category: "Structures - Engine Servicing"

The author mostly followed the instructions of Western Scale Models' engine shed, but instead made it a machine shop. The detail parts are by the company. The author discusses how he made the belt-driven machines appear to work. Includes detailed photos, parts list, and tools list.

Restoring a Vintage Tank Car

O Scale Trains Magazine 23 November 2005 pg. 64     Scale: O     Category: "Freight Cars - Tank Cars"

The author describes how he restored this old tank car.

Scratchbuilding C&NW Narrow Gauge Boxcar No. 10

Railroad Model Craftsman 2010-09 pg. 48     Scale: On3     Category: "Freight Cars - Boxcars"

This article includes many prototype photos, scale drawings, construction photos, and a bill of materials for modeling this car.