The Model Railroader's Guide to Freight Yards (Model Railroader Books) this question feed

asked by success06 on November 20, 2006 1:48 PM
HO and N scale illustrations and prototype and layout photos introduce modelers to the principles of designing, constructing and operating a realistic freight yard. Covers the operations of a prototype freight yard, including receiving, classifying, cleaning, and more; outlines the basic structures; and offers techniques for modeling a freight yard on a layout of any size or era.

• Perfect for intermediate and skilled beginning modelers • Written by Andy Sperandeo, executive editor of Model Railroader Magazine and author of the popular Kalmbach's Easy Model Railroad Wiring


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I was a bit disappointed by this book. It started off very well but then wandered off in a direction I did not want to take.

It does a fair job of introducing the various trackage to be found at many yards, explaining the routing and usage. There were a few topics, such as gravity or hump yards, which were missing but the general introduction was well done. After that point, though, it bogged down.

Most of the book is spent looking at real yards and explaining how they were adapted for modeling purposes on various layouts. This would seemingly be a very good idea since the purpose of the book is to teach the reader about how to model yards effectively. In execution, though, it leaves a bit to be desired. It reads like a transcript of a running commentary on a model operating schedule. This accomplishes the basics of the purpose but makes for dry and uninteresting reading.

Something that helps the book is the addition of sidebar articles on various topics. These address specific issues and are, on the whole, well written. They address such issues as saving space with yard ladders, throat design and even the look and feel of a yard. A final section on cards and waybills is also well written.

After his excellent treatment on passenger equipment and operations, I expected more. The information is in there but it takes some effort.
reviewed by benzdrives on November 28, 2006 5:46 AM

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I work in the video game industry and am working on a game that has a railroad level in it. These model railroad books are the perfect reference! The whole book is filled with great ideas and each idea is supported with real photographs. A+ One of the best
"reference" books I've ever purchased!
reviewed by vern on November 29, 2006 4:28 AM

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The Model Railroader Guide To Freight Yards by model railroading expert Andy Sperandeo presents a compendium of overviews with respect to basic freight yard functions and operations; strategies for modeling freight yards based on specific prototypes; examples of interesting scenes and structures to model; ideas for saving space when designing a yard plan; and track plans from successfully modeled freight yards. Enhanced throughout with maps and illustrations for easy planning and designing, and with an inspirational photo gallery concluding each chapter, The Model Railroader Guide To Freight Yards is a welcome and enthusiastically recommended addition to any dedicated railroad modeler's reference shelf collection.
reviewed by glassysurf on November 29, 2006 5:58 PM

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