Friday, 14 November 2014

Details on MTH's New ES44 Diesel Locomotive Exclusive

Fans of M.T.H. Trains certainly won't want to miss the company's newest exclusive ES44 Diesel Locomotive, which is only available to Authorized Service Centers and extremely limited.

To get all the details on this new locomotive in the Premier line, you can read the update from M.T.H. and see all the images directly below, or head over to their site for even more information.

May 22, 2013 - M.T.H. Electric Trains is releasing a limited production run of a specially decorated Premier Line ES44 Diesel locomotive complete with Proto-Sound 3.0 and flashing charging lights. Check out the engine in the photos below or click on the video icon in the website news story to see this colorful locomotive in action.

This attractively decorated two motored locomotive is very limited in production - just 125 will be produced - and is being exclusively offered to M.T.H. Authorized Service Centers on a first-come, first-served basis.

Item No. 20-20316-1 MTH Service Center (DCS) ES44AC Diesel Engine w/Proto-Sound 3.0 (Hi-Rail Wheels)

You don't even need to be a follower of M.T.H. to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of this new release. It's a gorgeous fully-featured locomotive with a one-of-a-kind paint job that's sure to turn a few heads. Any collector should count themselves lucky to add this piece to their collection. If you're still not convinced, check it out in action below. 

It just doesn't get much better than that! The train is set to retail at $ 459.95, is limited to 125 pieces, and will only be sold by M.T.H. Authorized Service Centers.

Wednesday, 12 November 2014

Fox Valley Models Receives Heritage GEVO Limited Edition Sets

If you're looking for a beautiful new piece to add to your collection, you won't want to miss this latest update on the Heritage Series from the fine folks at Fox Valley Models. 

The production quality of the new Heritage GEVO Limited Edition Sets from Fox Valley Models is unparalleled, and now you can get a closer look at these set thanks to a new update on their Facebook page. They seem especially happy with how they turned out, and I think most railroaders will agree based on the photos provided below (click for full size). 

The first round of Heritage GEVO boxed sets have been shipped. We are very happy with the finished product and know you will be too. The set includes all 10 Specially Painted GEVO locomotives in NS Heritage Schemes is a high quality presentation box with die cut inserts specifically for the GEVOs. It comes with an 8 x 10 photo of each locomotive and a 11 x 17 group shot when the whole fleet was gathered in Spencer, NC last July. In honor of the 30th anniversary, the first 30 sets include a high quality pin next to each locomotive. These will be limited to a maximum of 50 sets. There are a limited number of GEVO sets left for reservation. They will be available to ship in about 90 days, so if you are interested, send us an e-mail now! Owners of this set will have the first option on the future set of SD70ACe locomotives. If you have any questions, please drop us a note at info@foxvalleymodels.com.

This is an absolutely gorgeous set, and comes with so many nifty extras that it becomes well worth the investment. The boxed layout with the respective pins looks fantastic, the box is sleek and luxurious, and the accompanying photos pull together the history and splendor of it all in a wonderful way. 

There are only a number of sets still available, so I wouldn't hesitate if you're looking to snag one of these beauties. It's going to seem like a long 90 days waiting on them to finally ship, but I suspect they're well worth the wait. 

July to Bring New Miller Engineering Signs

There's nothing that will bring a new layout to life like that small finishing touch that grabs the eye and pulls the whole thing together. A sign from Miller Engineering could do exactly that for your layout, and they have just announced a few new ones to add to your collection. 

There are six new signs set to arrive this July from Miller Engineering, and each of them could be the shiny flourish your layout has been missing. The designs look great so far, and they each feature big-time brands that'll earn an "that's cool" from any casual viewers. You can read all the new details from the company below, or you can get all the details over on their website. 

New Signs Coming this July

We seem to receive an endless stream of suggestions for new signs, which is great and we thank all our customers who have submitted ideas! We would love bring them all out, but sadly we can't. We have to pick and choose with the hope our selections will be well received. With that in mind, we are planning a few new releases for the end of July. For more information click HERE or on any of the images.

First up is a Coors Beer rooftop billboard. This sign has been requested enough times by our customers, so its time has come. It will come in two sizes. We will also have a Coors window sign to complement it. If you purchase either size of the Coors Billboard before July 30th, you will receive the Coors window sign for FREE. To reserve one of these signs, drop us an e mail at milleren@microstru.com



Next up is a Burlington Northern billboard, available in two sizes. This sign has great animation and if you're a Burlington fan, this sign is for you. As stated before, we are hoping to do all the railroad names, with the most popular ones first.



We have added three more window signs:

"Amtrak Waiting Room" window sign - This is a great addition if you have a train station (we assume you do if you have a train layout!).

S&H Green Stamps window sign! Who doesn't remember these (if you're old enough!)? This sign meant a lot in the old days - especially to our Moms who would diligently lick those stamps and fill those books to get that treasure from the S&H Green stamp catalog!

"Napa Auto Parts" window sign - definitely an all American icon - instantly recognizable when behind the wheel, especially if you had a leaky radiator or some other car ailment. Didn't realize they had been around so long until we did the research on them... since 1925!



In the next newsletter we will have one more sign coming! Until then, have a safe and happy summer and keep those trains running!

Please remember all our new signs are Limited Edition Signs. If you would like to reserve any of them drop us an email at: milleren@microstru.com

I love the general brands like Napa and Coors, but I think the company's future in railway signs is most exciting. Burlington Northern enthusiasts have a great new centerpiece for their collections, and their promise to deliver other railway names in the future is wonderful. I can't wait to see these signs realized, and thankfully we only have a couple months to wait before they arrive.  

Just remember that these signs are all limited editions, so don't wait too long to send Miller Engineering an email and claim your desired piece today. 

Monday, 10 November 2014

Lionel Previews Medal of Honor Train Set

With Memorial Day Weekend just behind us, Lionel couldn't have picked a better time for their latest new product spotlight. Keep reading for more details on the new Medal of Honor Train Set. 

The Medal of Honor is an unparalleled award, and there may be no better way for railroaders to commemorate it than by grabbing this new set from Lionel. You can read the full spotlight and view the set below, or catch it straight from Lionel on their blog. 

The Medal of Honor has been awarded to many heroes since its introduction in 1861. This highest award of valor also has a railroad connection.

The Medal of Honor was first awarded to six surviving members of Andrew’s Raid. The famous raid captured the Western and Atlantic locomotive Generaland has been memorialized in song, screen and even Lionel trains. (See this blog post for a more detailed look at the event.) Secretary of War Edwin Stanton presented the awards March 25, 1863. It is only fitting then that on this 150th Anniversary of the award that we commemorate it and all of its recipients with a nostalgic train set led by our 4-4-0 “General.”

Our new Ready-to-Run set includes a 4-4-0 locomotive and a matching U.S. Military Railroad Civil War-era train. The locomotive features:

  • Transformer controlled Forward – Neutral – Reverse operation
  • RailSounds RTR with steam chuff, whistle and bell
  • Operating headlight
  • Puffing smoke unit
  • Operating coupler on tender
  • Powerful maintenance-free motor
  • Two traction tires

Also included are a pair of flatcars. One is loaded with cannon, the other with cannonballs. Bringing up the markers, a Railway Post Office car with truss rods and simple design of the era. All of the cars feature die-cast trucks and operating couplers.

The set also includes a 40″ x 60″ oval of FasTrack and CW-80 transformer to get you started or expand your empire.

Recapture this important era in American history in your home. See your dealer today to order the set which retails for $ 429.99.

This is a gorgeous set that will create an important talking point and historical perspective in any home. The train features all the standard bells and whistles, and the assortment of cars is both timely and interesting. Even if your interest in Civil War-era railroading is limited, this is a one of a kind opportunity to honor those who have served in the military and add a beautiful new piece to any collection. 

Saturday, 8 November 2014

RMT's New N5C PRR-Style Caboose Sale Info From Aristo

If you're an O-gauger in the market for a new piece from Aristo Craft Trains, you won't want to miss this money-saving offer and product spotlight from the company.

Aristo just sent out an update on a few fresh products this week, primarily focused on the new N5C PRR-style caboose. Keep reading below for all the details and images on the new Ready Made Trains lineup of products. This is some cool stuff and includes a few incredible bargains. 

RMT's new N5C PRR-style CABOOSE Only $ 42.99

MSRP is $ 119.99... save $ 77, order yours today at this special pricing!

RMT Customer S.C. says... I consider the new RMT caboose as the BEST ever made. Great detail and accurate painting too! I bought all 5 to go with my new RMT GG1s. Thanks RMT.

RMT Customer R.B. says... I really want to tell how impressed I am with this item. The quality of the paint, lettering, and detail is amazing for this price point. I keep finding more details each time I look at it. I discovered the vent windows in the crows nest as well as the fact that the each of the doors is hinged and opens. Nice touches.

Another RMT Customer says... I thought Ho hum, another N5c. WELL, lo and behold a PENNSYRIFFIC cabin car complete  with trainphone antenna. I Like it!!!

PRR-style N5C Caboose with operating smoke and 5 different RRs/paint schemes.

Matching new GG1 locomotive also in stock.

Click HERE to ORDER the N5C Caboose at special pricing!

Motorized Speeders in 8 different RRs
Click HERE to ORDER the SPEEDERs at special pricing!

All Roadname Water Towers
7 different RRs including LIRR
Click HERE to ORDER the WATER TOWERs at special pricing!

New versions of BEEPeople Figure Sets
4 different sets - all NEW
Click HERE to ORDER NEW FIGURE SETs at special pricing!

Quantities are very limited.
As these are all brand new items for RMT, they can certainly sell out quickly!
No backorders. No refunds or exchanges.

Thank you.

I like the look of every listed in this latest update. That's a beautiful caboose (although I don't know if I'd call it "Pennsyriffic" like the customer quoted above) at an almost-ridiculous discounted price. That water tower sure is eye-catching too, and it comes in a variety of road names to provide the perfect fit for your layout. There's a lot to like here for O-gaugers. 

But if you weren't quite satisfied with what's offered above, you can also check out other products from the company by browsing Aristo in the DASH Marketplace. It's practically ready-made for Ready Made Trains, and you're sure to find an even bigger bargain. 

Wednesday, 5 November 2014

5 Tips For a Train-Filled Father's Day

Model railroading is a hobby that's often inherited and passed down through generations, making it especially enjoyable and memorable when Father's Day rolls around each year.  

That's precisely why I've decided to identify five fun tips for celebrating father's day as a model railroader. Whether you're honoring a lost love one that introduced you to the hobby or passing on your love for trains to the youngest generation in your family, Father's Day is the perfect excuse to spend a day filled with trains.

5. Visit a Historic Train Site or Museum

If you can find a local spot that celebrates trains, make a day out of it! Whether you're heading to York or somewhere close (like the upcoming St. Louis Model Railroad Museum for me), you can enjoy the trip and the destination when trains are involved.

4. Give a Train as a Gift

Sometimes the simplest way to honor the fathers of the world is to buy them an awesome vintage item for their collection or a new ready to run set. You can even take a look on the DASH Marketplace where you're sure to find even more awesome Father's Day gifts for those who laid the track before you.

3. Spend the Day Working on Your Layout

There's nothing that brings a father and son together like spending time working on a layout. Whether building a finishing touch or laying the framework for an entirely new piece, the time spent together will be remembered for ages and make this Father's Day unforgettable.  

2. Take a Train Ride

What better way to spend time with your family than on the rails? Book a day trip on your favorite line and take in some beautiful scenery as you reminisce about starter layouts in an old basement or the latest piece in your collection. There's an energy in the rails that'll bring the day to life like nothing else. 

1. Run Your Trains

When it comes down to it, model railroaders love one thing more than anything else: running their trains. Spend some quiet time with your father or son and simply watch the trains go by! You'll find it both relaxing and enlightening, as you're sure to strike up a conversation, relive some history, and be overwhelmed by a sense of nostalgia and calm. I can't think of any better way to celebrate a father and the hobby that brought you together. 

Whether you manage to squeeze all five events into a single day or have a plan for the next five years, these tips are sure to make your Father's Day a special one. I'd like to wish all the fathers out there a wonderful day, and I'd like to remind all the sons and daughters out there to make this day about the model railroader in their life.