While not exactly a “traditional” model railroad web site, 2guyzandsumtrains.com packs a lot of model railroad information in one loaded web site!

My favorite part of the site is the extensive list of “How to’s” along the right hand side of the page. I assume these articles are submitted by site members. I have found lots of great tips and tricks browsing through the collection.

The main feature of the site is the forum section. This is a place where model railroaders gather to work out problems and to show off their latest creation. The forums are loaded with lots of how too’s, tips, and tricks as well. It’s definitely worth a look and maybe even to become a member (it’s free!).

Anyway, it worth stopping by http://www.2guyzandsumtrains.com/

Scott

When the UMG (Un-Named Modular Group) first formed, the Sipping & Switching Society was one of the first websites I visited for information about building modules. I was extremely impressed by the quality of their modules – both in their construction and scenic details. You have to love their 8 foot radius curved modules – a 60″ minimum radius!

Their site disappeared for a a while, but there were other sites that had a few S&SS resources, like TrevinoCircle’s link to their tree making instructions.

“Welcome to the non-conformist, iconoclastic but ever so tasteful world of the Sipping and Switching Society”

Their site is being rebuilt and I recently found it. The new Sipping & Switching Society of NC site contains a lot of information about building modules. I really like their waffle construction methods and their ideas for running rails right to the module edge negating the need for fitter rails between modules. (photo by Ric Mattar)

The UMG shares a lot of the same tenets that the S&SS has. About half way down their main page they talk about their group structure, or lack thereof. Basically, no formalities equals a happy and cohesive group. The group does not “own” anything and there is no “political” organization within the group. As long as modules are built to a basic standard they can be included in group layouts.

They have some track plans from past shows, and a few pictures of their modules on their site. I’m sure if you look around the internet you’ll find more photos of their very impressive layouts.

Scott

I’m not sure if it’s the layout or the person that has inspired me the most. Joe has built an amazing representation of what the prototype “may” have been if it had been built “as planned”.

The scenery on the layout is beautifully done and its operations seem to be very smoothly orchestrated (well most times anyway). Joe has many videos available for sale on topics ranging from layout construction to operating. From all accounts the videos are worth their weight in gold.

Joe is always willing to share his knowledge with others. He has created a forum where he, and many others, can share their skills and help other model railroaders with their challenges. I especially enjoy his op session discussions. The banter that goes on between operators seems oddly familiar! Ha!

It is definitely worth a visit to Joe Fugate’s Southern Pacific’s Siskiyou Line web site! I encourage you to drop in on his forum discussions from time to time as well. You will not be sorry you did.

Scott