Ballasting Model Railroad Track

The members of the Rensselaer Model Railroad Society are enthusiastic about sharing their passion and knowledge with others. Not everyone has the opportunity to join the club and work personally with the experts on the New England Berkshire & Western layout, but through this series you can learn about their techniques and strategies.

Ballasting Model Railroad Track

In part five of the 10-part New England Berkshire & Western series, one member of the Rensselaer Model Railroad Society demonstrates a step by step tutorial on ballasting model railroad track using the same techniques used on the New England Berkshire & Western Railroad. Over the years, members of the club developed the most successful approach for the job with the help of teamwork and research.

The technique for ballasting model railroad track used in this tutorial is an idea from an issue of Model Railroader published in 1965. The article offered many simple yet beneficial tips and tricks to use while ballasting track. The members of the Rensselaer Model Railroad Society have used this technique on the entire New England Berkshire & Western layout.

This tutorial will show you a few steps to make ballasting model railroad track easier. For example, you will learn a special way to spread the ballast on the track using a tool other than the typical paintbrush approach. This tool will allow for better control and won’t get caught up on the spikes. You will also learn about the best materials to use to replicate the textures of the ground. Using real earth takes forever to dry and filter, whereas these alternative materials are clean, cheap and available.

The members of the Rensselaer Model Railroad Society have plenty more to offer when it comes to model railroad techniques. Watch as the series with Allen Keller continues for more information regarding the club and tips on operations and modeling.