Digital Command and Control (DCC) brings a whole new level to the control of trains on a layout, including better low speed running and realistic operation. Many trains can share the same section of track and each train can be controlled separately in any direction and speed. Lights stay illuminated at a constant brightness even when the train is sat idle, and can be controlled individually.

DCC Sound provides an ultimate level of realism to the control of trains on a layout, including better low speed running and realistic operation with real sounds. Sounds are independently controlled and callable via mapped function keys on a DCC controller. Sounds generally include engine start & shutdown, engine running sounds, various horns/whistles, among many others.

Servicing helps to improve the running performance, reliability and longevity of your models. Poor maintenance can lead to many problems over time. Periodic light lubrication is recommended for almost every model, however over long periods, problems start to occur such as poor reliability and performance due to the build up of dirt attracted by oil, poor electrical conductivity of pick-ups, and split gears.

Cab and interior detailing can add a further element of realism to your models and can be undertaken as part of a conversion or on it’s own. Cab lighting can be installed with train crew on diesel locomotives and multiple units, and steam locomotives can be fitted with a flickering firebox with driver and second-man/fireman. Interior lighting and the placement of passengers…

With earlier generation models not having working directional lights, DCC conversion may initially be thought of as a wasted exercise. However, Mark’s Trains can provide a bespoke service to install directional lighting to your prized stock, giving them a new lease of life in the digital world once converted to DCC.

Mark’s Trains now offers a kit building service in all scales. Mark has many years of kit building experience whether it be plastic or brass. This kit building service was not previously advertised owing to capacity issues, however with a new larger workshop work capacity has now greatly increased and so we are able to offer this as a service to our customers.

Mark’s Trains is now in a position to provide a professional spray painting and respray service since we have moved over to our new larger workshop facility at the end of summer 2018. This has allowed a significant increase in the work capacity that we are able to contend with.

If you are looking for an element of extra realism in your models then it is worthwhile considering some weathering. Unless a mainline locomotive is ex-works or lovingly cared for, in reality it wouldn’t appear in a pristine condition and neither should your model when you take it out of the box. At a minimum it would have some roof and frame dirt and perhaps some bodyside grime.