News: Company Announcements
This page lists announcements related to company-level information, such as new companies that have been formed, existing companies that are closing-up shop, ownership transfers of companies, or any other such information. Click photos to visit the web sites.
Leadville Designs Upcoming Projects
Bill Meredith, of Leadville Designs, presents all of the ongoing and upcoming projects his company is involved in. While he covers all scales, the company is a major contributor of Sn3 models.
Trains.com Interviews Lionel CEO
The interview mostly covers O scale modeling, but the topic of the future of American Flyer is brought up, basically repeating what has already been disseminated before.
San Juan Details Buys Precision Vintage Classics
Doug Junda announced that San Juan Details has completed the purchase of the former Precision Vintage Classics. Owner Paul Vaughn passed away in December 2024. His company had a lot of interesting and unique products available, mostly for S-scale narrow-gauge modeling, but also for S standard-gauge. Doug announces that they have moved the items to their shop in Colorado and are currently going through them. He stated that they will be integrated as part of their San Juan Details company. Also included in the purchase was Paul's personal Sn3 and On3/On30 items, which they will offer up for sale as well, in due time.
The future of American Flyer products from Lionel
Classic Toy Trains magazine editor interviewed Lionel CEO Howard Hitchcock and asked him about the future of American Flyer.
Scalecoat Paints Returns
Fusion Scale Hobbies started in 2021 as an online shop. Later they decided to open a full-service brick-n-mortar hobby shop. In early 2025 they moved to a new location in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This month they are announcing that they have bought the Scalecoat product line from MinuteMan Scale Models, who had stopped production in 2022. They are still in the process of ramping up production. They have a dedicated web site for just the Scalecoat product line.
Sidetracks on eBay
Tom Henderson, owner of the online retail store Sidetracks, passed away in 2023. Tom's health had been declining, so he was in the process of selling off his large inventory of S products. He still had a lot of items left at the time of his passing. Most items are one-off. Tom's wife, Margaret, has decided to simply sell the remaining inventory via a new eBay store that she has set up. This helps her determine which items are worth selling, and she is also able to manage the workload of listing lots of items for sale. If interested, be sure to visit this eBay store from time to time. So far, Margaret has stated that it is going well and she is happy with the results. Remember, most items are one-off, so be sure to bid on them if you see something you like.
The Aspen Modeling Company Presentation
Alan Anderson, owner of the well-known figures-making company, The Aspen Modeling Company, did a presentation on the Narrow Gauge Off the Beaten Track YouTube channel recently.
NE Model Works
NE Model Works used to only sell on the former Shapeways, but the owner has now started his own web site. He continues to carry S-scale products, including new ones. The Loewy press is an example of the owner having a press made in HO-scale but Bill Morris of NE Prototypes asking him if he could change the lettering and size the model up to S-scale.
Trout Creek Engineering
Trout Creek Engineering's web site appears to be up and active again. Their new contact information is as follows:
c/o San Juan Model Co
8141 N I-70 Frontage Rd Suite 5
Arvada, CO 80002
doug@sanjuanmodelco.com
S-n-S Trains Closed, Temporarily
Bill Sheneman, owner of the repair service company S-n-S Trains, notified us that he has closed the company for the time-being. Bill took over S-n-S Trains from Steve Blackburn in 2022. He moved the company to Yerington, Nevada. However, they are now in the process of moving back to Oregon, to be closer to family. During the move, Bill will offer some limited services. After he is all settled in, he will re-open the company fully, as before.
ScaleTrains And Tariffs
Shane Wilson, president of ScaleTrains, explains the reality of the tariffs the U.S. has placed on Chinese-made products, how that might impact them, and the solution that they have decided to implement to keep the company going. He also answers the question about why they don't make model trains in the U.S. Note that the ScaleTrains S-scale reefers aren't scheduled to arrive until October 2025, so by then the tariff situation may have changed. Items the company still has in stock, today, are not affected.
Railmaster Exports (update)
John Agnew wants to sell Railmaster Exports. If you are interested in either ordering one or more kits, or are interested in purchasing and continuing this important product line (he will work with you to make this happen), please contact John a.s.a.p.
Start an e-mail message (john@railmaster.co.nz).
Trainz.com Acquires Lionel TMCC and Legacy Parts
From the press release: Trainz has acquired all of the Lionel TMCC1 and modular Legacy conventional reverse and sound printed circuit boards (PCBs). These parts include Odyssey 1 motor drivers, Legacy motor drivers, R2LCs, R4LCs, and Railsounds 2, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0, 4E, 5.0, 5.5 and 6.0. Trainz has also acquired conventional reverse units for AC and DC motors, as well as conventional sound units for steam, diesel and electric locomotives. Trainz.com owner, Scott Griggs, stated "There will be a lot of happy Lionel customers when word gets out that they can get [the parts to have] their trains repaired. The outlook is bright for years to come."
Fourth Dimension Moves to 3DP Train
Fourth Dimension used to only sell their designs via Shapeways, but they have now opened a 3DP Train Store. They have S and Sn3 static hand-car models, S coal bin, and S and Sn3 tie stacks.
Introducing Central Iowa Customs
This new store on the 3DPTrain web site makes available many 3D-printed parts for detailing American Models locomotives. These include external details, as well as complete cab interiors. They also offer a detailing kit for Pacific Rail Shops and S Scale America hoppers.
Century Models on 3DPTrain
Century Models, owned by S-scale modeler Bob Frascella, used to be only on the original Shapeways. He has now started to make some detailing parts available via the 3DP Train Store.
Paint Stands by Bonsall Scale Carshops
Bonsall Scale Carshops has 3D-printed paint stands available. There are four to a package, and they can screw into any car body that is designed to take the common 2-56 screw (for trucks).
Dragon Railways System Expansion
In 2023 a company called RamBros' Workshop introduced a track system, engines, and cars, which they named "Dragon Railways", and decided to make it a 1:64 system. The company designed the 3D CAD drawings and makes available, via open source, the 3D-printer files necessary for anyone to be able to 3D-print these components. They and several other individuals or companies have expanded that system in recent months. Note that these are software files only; you will need to provide a 3D-printer or have access to one to be able to print these items.
The RamBros have released an additional version of all of their track components, which now includes simulated ballast sub-roadbed.
Jack Dwiggins' Presentation of Micro Engineering
The Narrow Gauge Off the Beaten Track YouTube channel added a presentation by Jack Dwiggings to update us on what is going on with Micro Engineering. Jack is one of the new owners of the company.
Micro Engineering Buys Tomalco Track
From the Micro Engineering press release:
"Micro Engineering Company is pleased to announce the addition of Tomalco Track and its S scale tooling to the Micro Engineering Family. Micro Engineering will be adding 6 different S gauge items to its line of high quality, prototypically accurate track."
The 6 products to which they are referring are the standard-gauge "scale" weathered and unweathered versions of flextrack for rail codes 70, 83, and 100. These are the same products that Tomalco Track has sold for many years. Micro Engineering was actually the company producing those items in the past.
Micro Engineering recently underwent its own leadership change, so it is still in the process of getting going. Their new web site is still in the works, but they will eventually support online ordering. In the meantime, you can e-mail your orders to their e-mail address. Their press release stated that S-scale flextrack for rail codes 70 and 83 should be available some time in March, and code 100 should be available some time in mid-Summer 2025.
The former Tomalco Track turnouts are not part of this sale, because they were made-to-order by a contracted individual. Requests for information about the status of the other products that Tomalco Track previously produced, such as their metal gauges, track bumpers, and tie plates have gone unanswered.
Start an e-mail message (orders@microengineering.com).
Benn Central Shops Update
Ben Trousdale stated on his Facebook page that he will not be able to resume filling orders for parts until sometime in April 2025. His hopper kits, however, remain available via 3D Central.
No More Lionel American Flyer
Dick Kramer, the NASG membership secretary, attended the 2025 Railroad Hobby Show in Springfield, MA this weekend, and asked the Lionel representative there, point-blank, what Lionel's plans are for their "American Flyer" brand, since they are no longer listing products in their bi-annual catalogs. The Lionel representative stated that due to lack of sales, Lionel will no longer be producing American Flyer products going forward. Doug Peck, owner of Port Lines Hobbies and a Lionel dealer, confirms that Lionel had been hinting at this to him for the past three years. The catalogs only list what they still have available in their inventory.
Introducing Under Construction Replicas
The company was started about a year ago, selling 3D-printed scenery detailing parts in various scales, including S. They started selling on eBay, but have recently added a dedicated web site. They are based in Pikesville, Maryland and attend regional shows, so you can see their products in person.
Introducing Milwaukee Flyer
If you enjoy A.C. Gilbert-style of track and equipment, you might want to visit this company's web site. They have replacement parts for A.C. Gilbert diesel and steam locomotives, and for cars. They have track parts, too. Additionally, they have designed and sell brand-new full- and half-length rerailers, as well as a 45-degree crossing. They sell both via their web site and via their eBay store.
Austin Birkey Visits American Models
Austin Birkey got a chance to visit American Models and documented it with a video. It is interesting to see how one of S-scale's premier manufacturers runs their operation. All assembled in America.
Shapeways Planning Return (Updated)
It appears that the Dutch company, Shapeways, is coming back. They have formed a new management team, a couple of whom were the original founders of the company but who had left the company around ten years ago. They have bought the name, rights, and equipment from the bankruptcy asset holders, and are planning a renewed effort with a company that is on better footing financially.
The latest update from the new CEO is that the whole "Marketplace" system, the way that we as their customers were able to buy individual items that were designed by other designers, has been lost and is unrecoverable due to the bankruptcy. At this point in time they are not planning on bringing the Marketplace aspect back, unless they can figure it out later on. For now, they are going to only be a business-to-business company, meaning that they will produce 3D-printed items for other companies to sell to their customers. The operation in the Netherlands is already doing that now.
Some people had expressed concern about us modelers dropping our support for the handful of companies here in the U.S. that were able to take up the slack caused by Shapeways' bankruptcy, and thus being negatively affected by Shapeways' return. This announcement by the CEO means that they are not really going to be directly competing with those U.S. companies, as they are not going to be selling their 3D-printed items to us consumers directly, at least not in the foreseeable future.
Clover House
The Clover House web site states they are closed for the time-being. It explicitly states that the company is not for sale.
NASG President Converses with ScaleTrains
This following is contributed by NASG president Jim Whipple about his conversation with ScaleTrains president Shane Wilson.
Just this afternoon I had an extensive Internet conference with Shane Wilson, President of ScaleTrains, who was more than generous with his time.
Here is the good news. The company has added additional production managers to their factory in China, and is now prepared for increased production capacity, which of course affects all three scales that they produce (HO, N, and S). Obviously the comparatively smaller market size of S models does not make our beloved scale their biggest money-maker, but it is very much a part of their future plans.
Three more freight cars are scheduled to be announced; you can look for the first of those announcements (complete with road names) in the first quarter of 2025. Re-introduction of more of the S-Helper Service line will follow those three projects.
For those of you not familiar with the S-Helper Service manufacturing/marketing system, rolling stock is sold with hi-rail wheels and AF-compatible couplers already installed, and with NMRA/NASG-standard ("scale") wheels and couplers provided in the box for easy conversion.
Given yesterday's political event, a 60% tariff on Chinese products would have to be passed on to the consumer; however, the last time this was threatened, the toy industry was able to escape the tariff provision. You should contact your representatives to oppose such a tariff being imposed upon toys, which hardly affect national security.
ScaleTrains is also willing to work with co-sponsors for those desiring new projects.
So instead of hand-wringing about the future of S, save up your hobby dollars and support the new efforts of this and other manufacturers.
Jim Whipple
President, National Association of S Gaugers
Dave's Twacks & Twains For Sale
Clay Buckage announced that he is retiring and closing the company. The company was founded in the late 1980s by Clay and his father. Since his father's passing, Clay has been running it himself, which included a move to California. The company sells A.C. Gilbert parts and took over the entire inventory of S-Helper Service parts when SHS had to close. Clay has been providing a very valuable and important service to the S community, and hopefully someone will be willing to take this over. Contact Clay via e-mail or by calling (925) 679-4887.
Start an e-mail message (clay@davestnt.com).
Flextrack by Tomalco Track
Shane Lambert, owner of Tomalco Track, reports that he has been dealing with some health issues, and since Tomalco Track is a one-man operation, he has been unable to fill orders. S-scale flextrack has also been on back-order with the manufacturer, but he reports that he will start filling orders now.
Clifford Mestel
Clifford Mestel, owner of Trout Creek Engineering, passed away on September 15, 2024. Doug Junda and The San Juan Model Company have bought Trout Creek Engineering's complete product line, among them are their own products, Classic Miniatures, BK Turnouts, and Trout Creek was the only company which still carried the Tru-scale Models track system.
Smoky Mountain Model Works Update
Jim King was able to get a message out about Smoky Mountain Model Works and his situation. They survived hurricane Helene and their home and facilities are OK. They don't have power, WiFi, or running water. They have to go to family and friends for either of those. All projects are on hold until those essential services have been reinstalled, which he expects to be at least another two weeks.
Precision Vintage Classics Update
Paul Vaughn, owner of Precision Vintage Classics, announced that the brass caster he has been using for his parts and kits for the past ten years, has retired.
Tebee Models Moves to 3DP Train
Tebee Models (Tom Bell) has been added to the 3DP Train store. He used to list his items with Shapeways, and is moving them to 3DP Train. Currently, he only has some On30 items listed. Presumably, when asked, he can make his S-scale models available again. In addition to the link to the 3DP Train store, also linked are our pages to the S-scale items he previously produced.
Tom Stoltz Turnouts
Tom Stoltz ran a part-time business, called "Tom's Turnouts & Trackwork" from 2005 to 2019 when he retired. Tom solved the problem with turnouts that allowed both "hi-rail" and "scale" wheelsets to successfully navigate the frog of a turnout. In recent discussions it became apparent that his solution is valuable to the larger S community and his engineering work should not be lost due to the passage of time. Tom is interested in selling his design work to a company committed to bringing his design back to the market. He has contacted several companies over the years, but so far no takers. He was quite busy when he had his company, so the demand seems to be there. Tom offers only his designs, and has no CNC tooling available for sale. The designs were drawn in AutoCAD, and using those and an appropriate CNC machine, a company can produce those. Tom will be available to help such a company get started on producing these. Please note that this design and this offer is not available to individuals who intend to only use it for their own use; it is intended to be a commercial product that can be produced for anyone in the S community. Tom produced turnouts (regular and wyes) as well as crossings. Many modelers are using his turnouts and crossings on their layout. Interested parties should contact Tom directly via e-mail (his web site was closed down earlier this year).
Start an e-mail message (tstoltz@roadrunner.com).
Introducing Gotham Rail & Marine
The company has been in business since 2016 and has recently dipped their toes into S-scale. They produce detailing parts for diesel locomotives. All items are unpainted, 3D-printed, using an in-house printer.
Port Lines Hobby Supplies Closing
Doug Peck announced that he will close up his shop on December 31, 2025, a year and a half from now. Between now and then he will be working on liquidating his inventory. His AF Parts business will not be liquidated, but rather he is looking to sell that portion of the business to someone else. Contact Doug if you are interested in that. In the meantime, visit his web site and place your order for anything that you need or want.
The Shapeways Saga (cont'd)
We were contacted by the owner of 3DP Train, David Kmecik, to let us know that several companies or individuals have recently made the switch away from Shapeways to his company. That information is being integrated into our "Resources" section, but that brings up a good point, which is, what are the options available to former Shapeways storeowners?
3DP Train states on their web site that they have been inundated with questions since Shapeways' failure. They have an excellent Frequently-Asked-Questions (FAQ) page on their site. They also clearly state their policies with regard to you listing your 3D designs on their site. Unlike Shapeways, they are more model railroading focused, and thus have a dedicated S-scale section clearly listed on their site. And, also, unlike Shapeways, they are located in the U.S.
3D Central is another company that offers 3D-printing services. They are located in Muncy, Pennsylvania and are also heavily focused on 3D-printing model railroading items. They, too, have a clear page showing just S-scale items.
Then, there are web sites from which people can download STL files for free or for a fee, for those who already own a 3D-printer.
Cults is a general clearinghouse for 3D-printed CAD files covering all kinds of subjects, and there are already a number of S-scale items available on their site. They offer actual 3D-printing services through a third-party. Scroll to the bottom of their web site to find their FAQ page link.
Sketchfab is also a general clearinghouse for 3D-printed CAD files covering all kinds of subjects. There are a few 1:64 items on their site already.
MyMiniFactory also has files for items covering all subjects, which includes over 700 1:64-specific models (mostly related to modeling automobiles), including boats, airplanes, etc. Scroll to the bottom of their page and read the "How It Works" page for details about how to list your designs.
PinShape is another general files listing site. If you search for "1:64" you'll find a few S-scale-compatible items, none specifically model trains-related, though.
Thangs.com is yet another general files listing site. They also have a good-sized collection of 1:64 automobile-related items already listed.
Thingiverse already has several pages of 1:64 items listed. They also list just about any subject, but they are more focused on free items, and believe that any files you list with them are open to anyone else copying your design to put their spin on it.
Of course, nothing is preventing you for creating your own web site and listing your own printed products for sale. The owner of Miniprints, Bernard Hellen, did just that back in 2020 when he was laid off due to the government lock-downs. Now he has a thriving business selling lots of creative things.
3D-printing plays a big role in the future of S, where, as a minority scale, we may not enjoy the large cash investments corporations make to produce new models on a yearly basis. 3D-printing allows us to enjoy models on a much more limited-run, and have more unique and specific designs. Over time, more and more people will have a high-quality 3D-printer at their homes, so people who have the talents and experience creating CAD designs will have a large market opening up for them. Even today, larger communities may already have a "maker lab" available nearby where one can rent or use a 3D-printer to print a design. Ask other modelers who have custom prints made for them, about individuals or small companies that will print your designs for a fee-plus-costs. The listing below is not exhaustive, but it is offered as a start.
Be sure to see all, or other, products announced over the past year via the main News page.