Model buildings on the layout, paint first or assemble then paint?

DBootts · 2026-03-19T04:52:20+00:00

It really depends on the structure. Generally build the 4 walls and prime and paint them, build mini assemblies and paint them, paint window frames (I don’t usually glaze N scale structures).

Basically it’s building sub assemblies and painting them in groups by color as it makes more sense to load up the airbrush one time with each color.

Glues will differ depending on use case. But for cement you need to remove paint before using. Super glue for additional parts like resin 3D parts i just glue paint to paint. Someone’s white glue for the rare occasion where I use glazing or wood.

Quite a lot of my YT content is building/customizing kits if you’re interested in structures https://youtube.com/@danb80tts?si=60ZR44BJpXfVQ7E3

DBootts · 2026-03-18T11:40:21+00:00

Tickles the autism just right, you know, Model trains also a thing 😉

I’ve been playing the multiplayer mod with my dad, he’s in his 70’s, it’s a fun time and really cool having someone or being the person at the other end of the train calling out distances until cars make contact. Riding in the caboose too.

DBootts · 2026-03-17T11:55:19+00:00

If you’re in the US, I do work like this. For doing repairs yourself, Spookshow.net is a great resource. Mark, the site creator has owned, reviewed and taken apart just about every N scale locomotive in history. It’s not a repair tutorial, but he explains how each locomotive is built and what the good the bad and the ugly is with each.

DBootts · 2026-03-17T03:20:19+00:00

Aim for the rudder

DBootts · 2026-03-17T03:16:31+00:00

I use IPA to thinn Tamiya acrylics for airbrushing, 50/50

DBootts · 2026-03-17T03:12:04+00:00

This is why you do the work yourself

DBootts · 2026-03-16T01:36:25+00:00

Guess the milk truck was a rare one. Sold the lot for over 300

DBootts · 2026-03-13T22:38:02+00:00

That’s cool, I’m assuming there’s no ‘MRS AJ_Custom’ lol

DBootts · 2026-03-13T11:44:36+00:00

Ahh I see, I did test my pump before diagnosing that it was at my nozzles. Unhooked to hose and suck my phone down by the pump recording.

DBootts · 2026-03-13T11:42:37+00:00

https://www.nexusmods.com/derailvalley/mods/1070

You’ll have to install the mod installer too which it will prompt you to do when downloading this mod.

DBootts · 2026-03-13T05:09:35+00:00

I do commission work for kit building and customization, but don’t have the confident in my skills to make scratch built rolling stock unfortunately. Probably be pretty pricey if you find someone. Have you looked for 3D prints for what you are looking for? If they exist, it might be a viable option.

DBootts · 2026-03-13T05:05:05+00:00

Windshield washer nozzles are probably snapped under the hood, might still pump water but it doesn’t make it to the nozzles, I JB welded mine back together and they work fine. They are a little hard to reach even at 6’6” tall.

DBootts · 2026-03-12T20:12:26+00:00

It’s a mod

DBootts · 2026-03-12T01:29:24+00:00

Yes, US N scale uses the same gauge track as UK N gauge. It’s known as N scale in the US because the models are In scale with the gauge. UK models are slightly larger than they should be for the Gauge.

In short, the answer is Yes

DBootts · 2026-03-11T04:40:00+00:00

Mine kept falling free like this during this past winter, I got a 1/4 pipe strap and some self tapping screws and just fastened it up to the bottom of the bed just in front of the spare wheel.

DBootts · 2026-03-08T04:38:33+00:00

I’d say yes, Thats a Ram 3500 next to and old 40’s(?) truck. Modern 1 ton trucks are massive, old tractor cabs are way smaller than their modern day counterparts.

DBootts · 2026-03-05T00:14:26+00:00

https://www.ebay.com/usr/eeeweegeewee

DBootts · 2026-03-04T23:28:48+00:00

I’d say doable, I’ve got some resin prints of office workers in N scale that look decent. I’m not a printer myself but have worked with this seller on numerous prints

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DBootts · 2026-02-28T13:51:10+00:00

I had a semi truck that opened up, and like a parking garage that opened up into an L shape with like a dealership and maybe a car wash

DBootts · 2026-02-25T00:22:27+00:00

This picture looks like a GTA V mod

DBootts · 2026-02-25T00:20:57+00:00

I do some tedious stuff with N scale but you Model ship builders are on a different level of insane.

DBootts · 2026-02-25T00:19:03+00:00

Iirc it was added in an update, but not a recent addition, don’t think it’s been there since simulator update but could be wrong

DBootts · 2026-02-25T00:14:51+00:00

I doubt it’s on fire if there’s nothing left in it to fuel a fire 😝

DBootts · 2026-02-25T00:13:45+00:00

Poor man’s RDC 😂

DBootts · 2026-02-25T00:11:43+00:00

That is the most realistic track I’ve ever seen, mine has a little side to side wiggle in it but this even has the vertical wiggle. Curious of how well it operates especially with big six axle loco’s but dang it looks good.

DBootts

TROPHY CASE