Thunder Mesa Model Railroad | Complete Layout Tour Pre 2024 ThunderMesaTrains 2025-08-18 | As I return to work on the reimagined Thunder Mesa layout, I thought it would be fun to take a look back at how the model railroad was in 2022-23 before I began the whole process of dismantling, moving, and redesigning everything. Fortunately, I have extensive coverage of all the scenes that where on the layout thanks to the many "Thunder Cam" videos created during that time. So, this is a re-edit of a lot of that footage, arranged to give a fairly complete tour of the old layout. Much of this has been published before but never in one package as an overview of the entire model railroad. This is something of a historical document, both for me, and for all the fans of the railroad that have stuck with me during the many changes and re-imaginings over the years.Thanks for watching, amigos!DaveBecome a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Lets Build an On30 Work Caboose! | Thunder Mesa Model Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2026-09-14 | Picking up right where I left off on last week's crane car build, I'm building another car for Thunder Mesa's maintenance of way (MOW) train! This time, I'm repurposing the 3-D printed 16' flat car from the EarnestTrains crane car kit into a funky, rundown, homebuilt work caboose with tons of character. Join me as I turn what had been a failed part of the project into a creative opportunity to make something fun and useful.Dave____________In this video: ebay.com/usr/earnesttrains-bajadezertBecome a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Full Build! On30 Crane Car | Thunder Mesa Model Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2026-09-10 | I've been needing a crane car for Thunder Mesa's maintenance of way (MOW) train, and this 3-D printed semi-kit from EarnestTrains fills the bill! Follow along as I build and modify these quality parts into a hard-working, steam donkey powered, flatcar mounted crane for my On30 narrow gauge empire.Dave____________In this video: ebay.com/usr/earnesttrains-bajadezertBecome a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Gold Tooth Mine Build Part 3: Roof, Figures and Final Details | Latigo Boomtown ThunderMesaTrains 2026-08-11 | Welcome to part 3 of the Gold Tooth Mine build! In this installment, I finish up the structure by building the roof, building a simple base from foamcore, painting the figures and details, and adding the final weathering. Plus, a few more tips and deviations from the instructions to help make the kit your own!The first kit from Thunder Mesa Kits is now available and it's the Gold Tooth Mine in 1:48 scale! At the time of this recording, there are still a few kits available but these kits are only being produced for a limited time. thundermesakits.comThanks for watching,Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Gold Tooth Mine Build Part 2 | Latigo Boomtown ThunderMesaTrains 2026-08-06 | This is the second of a three part build of the Gold Tooth Mine, and in this installment, I show how to build the board and batten walls; the doors and windows; and add a weathered paint job that evokes structures of the late 19th Century. Plus, more tips and tricks that aren't in the instructions!The first kit from Thunder Mesa Kits is now available and it's the Gold Tooth Mine in 1:48 scale! At the time of this recording, there are still a few kits available but these kits are only being produced for a limited time. thundermesakits.comThanks for watching,Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Gold Tooth Mine Build Part 1: Headframe Assembly | Latigo Boomtown ThunderMesaTrains 2026-08-02 | The first kit from Thunder Mesa Kits is now available and it's the Gold Tooth Mine in 1:48 scale! At the time of this recording, there are still a few kits available but these kits are only being produced for a limited time. thundermesakits.comThis is the first of a three part build of the Gold Tooth Mine, and in this installment, I show how to build the mine headframe - and I throw in a couple of tips and tricks that aren't in the instructions!Thanks for watching,Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Modeling a Western Street Scene | On30 Goldfield & Calico ThunderMesaTrains 2026-06-09 | I'm headed back to the old mining town of Calico this week to finish the street scene and build a few grade crossings. Starting from bare plywood and cork, I show my process for modeling dirt roads with sanded grout and go step by step through the build of some rustic wooden grade crossings. Then it's time for weeds, weathering, and a Model T truck load of details to complete the scene.Thanks for watching!Dave____________Pacific Northwest Miniatures: tinyurl.com/3a3tawjwBecome a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library
Welcome to Latigo! A New Town for Thunder Mesa and a New Venture for the Studio ThunderMesaTrains 2026-05-30 | I am very excited to announce that a new boomtown is coming to the On30 Thunder Mesa Mining Co layout! Latigo will be a rough and tumble Wild West town rising in the high desert beyond Coyote Canyon as the Thunder Mesa expansion and reimagining kicks into overdrive in the second half of 2026. The launch of this new town - and all of its custom designed structures - also marks the launch of an exciting new venture from Thunder Mesa Studio. Without giving too much away, let's just say that you might just be able to bring some of Latigo home for your own layout!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Thunderbird Finale at the Mini Festa Fiesta! ThunderMesaTrains 2026-05-17 | In this final installment of the On18 Thunderbird mini layout build, I get together with all of my collaborators out in California to put the finishing touches on the project. Gary Beatty and I get the layout mounted on its new stand, and Jake Johnson details the Reptile House and helps me plant weeds all over the layout. With the work all done, we all get to enjoy the amazing models and mini layouts on display at the annual On30 Mini Festa Fiesta, an invitation only narrow gauge modeling event held at a private home.Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Modeling Route 66 | On18 Thunderbird Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2026-05-12 | Racing toward the finish line on the On18 Thunderbird mini-layout, it's time to tackle some very important aspects of the project - like Route 66 itself! In this episode I model a small stretch of this iconic American highway as it would have been in its heyday of the mid 1950's. Along the way, I also finish up the layout fascia, the parking lot, and build Thunderbird's roadside billboard. Then it's details, details, and more details!Thunderbird is a 1950's, roadside attraction themed mini layout that I'm working on in collaboration with Gary Beatty and other modeling friends and we hope to have the whole thing finished by the end of April, 2026. Dave____________Characters Count Miniatures: characterscountminiatures.com____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Train Trestles, Fences and Flying Saucers | On18 Thunderbird Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2026-04-26 | It's time to wrap up several small to medium sized projects on the On18 Thunderbird mini layout. First on the list is the trestle bridge over Navajo Wash, then it's time to detail the wash itself and add an honest to goodness crashed flying saucer with LED lighting effects! I also make a start on the layout's fascia, and add some wooden fences, ground cover and details.Thunderbird is a 1950's, roadside attraction themed mini layout that I'm working on in collaboration with Gary Beatty and other modeling friends and we hope to have the whole thing finished by the end of April, 2026. Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Finishing the Mystery Mine | On18 Thunderbird Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2026-04-19 | It took longer than I expected, but the Mystery Mine is finally finished on the On18 Thunderbird mini layout! In this installment, I build the faux rock tunnel portals using floral foam, add a decorative mine head-frame inspired by Knott's Berry Farm, finish the main blacklight cavern scene, add a roof with realistic weathering, and finish the structure with signs and details. It's the biggest project yet on Thunderbird!Thunderbird is a 1950's, roadside attraction themed mini layout that I'm working on in collaboration with Gary Beatty and other modeling friends and we hope to have the whole thing finished by the end of April, 2026. Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Deep Inside the Mystery Mine | On18 Thunderbird Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2026-03-22 | Picking up right where I left off last time, it's time to start putting the "mystery" into the Mystery Mine! It's crunch time on the On18 Thunderbird mini layout, and things are starting to look more and more finished. The Mystery Mine is the dark ride finale for Thunderbird's On18 park train and in this installment, I make a good start on the interior with behind the scenes views of the painted flats, "rubber bats" and blacklight effects that will bring it to life. I figure a lot of stuff out on this one which will help me finish up the Mine in the next installment.Thunderbird is a 1950's, roadside attraction themed mini layout that I'm working on in collaboration with Gary Beatty and other modeling friends and we hope to have the whole thing finished by the end of April, 2026. Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Gary Beatty Returns & the Mystery Mine Begins! | On18 Thunderbird Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2026-03-05 | My main collaborator on Thunderbird, Gary Beatty, returns to the studio with a load of great new models for the layout that he and Scott Carter have been working on. Check out the "fake" water tower that's really a gas pump for our tractor powered steam-outline engine! Scott Carter sent along a batch of classic cars that he weathered for the layout and Gary and I have an enjoyable time figuring out where to put them all. Plus, I make a start on Thunderbird's main attraction: the Mystery Mine, a 52' long shed that will house the dark ride portion of Thunderbird's On18 tourist railroad. Thunderbird is a 1950's, roadside attraction themed mini layout that I'm working on in collaboration with Gary Beatty and other modeling friends and we hope to have the whole thing finished by the end of April, 2026. Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Grant & Sattler Expeditions 12 Cars | On30 Thunder Mesa Model Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2026-02-12 | Dinosaur fossil hunters have arrived in Thunder Mesa Country!One of the great things about modeling in On30 is that it really encourages fun and creativity. Today I take full advantage of that, building a pair of 12' cars that tell a fun little story all their own. The Western Institute of Paleontology has sent Professors Grant & Sattler down from Montana to supervise the dig on a major T-Rex fossil find. And the rest, as they say, is pre-history!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Narrow Gauge Freight House | HOn3 Barlow Pass Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2026-02-05 | I decided my fictional Colorado town of Barlow Pass needed a freight house to match the passenger station that I built last time. So this week, I designed and built a freelanced structure to capture the look and feel of a high country freight depot along the old Rio Grande narrow gauge. This video takes you through the complete build of the structure, from early design considerations all the way to final details and weathering!Empire Trackworks graciously provided the custom, hand-built HOn3 turnouts for the layout. Check them out at empire-trackworks.comThanks for watching!DaveIn this video:Dioramo Lighting System: dioramo.com____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy of YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
ALL the Projects Coming for 2026 on Thunder Mesa Trains! ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-25 | Join me for a full tour of the studio as we look at all of the ongoing and upcoming model railroad projects for 2026! From the HOn30 Barlow Pass layout, to Thunderbird, Thunder Mesa, and everything in between, I share my future plans for scenery, structure, benchwork, and locomotive projects. Let's daydream and make some plans!DaveCorrection: In the video I attribute a 3-D printed 4-4-0 locomotive shell to Lambert Locomotive Works, I was mistaken. It actually comes from the Cumberland Shops: etsy.com/shop/TheCumberlandShops#about However both suppliers are well worth checking out!____________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Love Park Trains? Get This Book! ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-19 | I love this new book from Barry Hill on America's Them Park Trains! Finally, a book for all of us park train nerds. This is a large format coffee table book from Rivershore Press that's loaded with photos, illustrations and stories about theme and amusement park trains from Disneyland to Dollywood and everywhere in between. Pick one up for yourself at the link! rivershorepress.com/ticket-to-ride
Baxters Trading Post Part 2: Big Pines and Frontier Details | Thunder Mesa Model Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-18 | I'm back with part 2 of "Baxter's Trading Post," a new scene on the On30 Thunder mesa layout that represent the town's rough-hewn frontier beginnings. In this installment, I add real dirt ground cover, and then show my step by step method for making Ponderosa Pine trees. Then it's time to add final details to the scene and light the structures with a simple 9V DC power system. This new area has a real "Big Thunder Mt" vibe and was a total blast to build!Thanks for watching, amigos!DaveErrata: In the video i call the tree branch material "caspia." This is incorrect. It is actually called "Seafoam" and comes from Scandinavia. The more you know! Correct link to product below.____________In this video:Seafoam (NOT caspia) branches: https://a.co/d/7vLP4VnSuper Turf: sceneryexpress.com/DARK-FOREST-GREEN-SUPERTURF-32-oz-JAR/productinfo/EX863BDC Power Buss: https://a.co/d/8TeXhen9V DC Transformer: https://a.co/d/2u23ZAfBecome a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Baxters Trading Post Part 1: Foam Canyon Scenery | Thunder Mesa Model Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-11 | Let's start the new year off right with a brand new project for the On30 Thunder Mesa Mining Company layout! "Baxter's Trading Post" is a new scene that will represent the oldest part of Thunder Mesa town. In this installment, I use the stacked foam technique to extend the mesa and provide a new canyon country home for some old favorite structures. Foam rock carving, finishing, and scenic painting are all covered in this video.Thanks for watching, amigos!DaveBecome a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Touch Up Stain Markers for Model Making ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-10 | I discovered these great "Touch-up" wood stain markers at my local hardware store and the neutral grey colors are fantastic for model making. Check 'em out! rejuvenatecleaning.com/products/wood-repair-markers/white-gray-wood-repair-markers
A Visit to Bandit Canyon ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-09 | The Bandit Canyon Railway is a Wild West themed On18 mini-layout built in 2023-24. It's just 24x48" but the scenery towers to 6 feet high! On18 is O scale, 1:48 trains running on 18" narrow gauge tracks. N scale track, mechanisms, and wheels can be used to model this scale/gauge combination.
Dont Buy the Wrong Hobby Knife! ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-06 | Wondering what kind of hobby knife to buy? Well, there is one very important feature you shouldn't overlook!
Cumbres & Toltec Highlights ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-04 | Some highlights of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad along the Colorado/New Mexico border. The C&T is a 3' narrow gauge line that preserves a historic and spectacular section of the old Denver & Rio Grande Western. Well worth a visit!
Thunder Mesa Excursion Special with No 11 ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-03 | Let's take a ride on the On30 Thunder Mesa line with an excursion special pulled by locomotive No 11, "Sam McKim." This small 4-4-0 American type locomotive was converted to On30 from an HO scale Bachmann Richmond. It's a good runner and usually reserved for light passenger service and excursion trains like this.Music courtesy YouTube Audio Library.
Midday Stop at San Lorenzo ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-02 | E&SG Porter Number 5 pulls into San Lorenzo on a hot afternoon down on the border. On30 model railroading by Dave Meek and Verne Niner.
Thunder Mesa Daily Mail ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-01 | Porter locomotive No 3 fills the daily mail contract with shorty coach No 2 on the On30 Thunder Mesa Mining Company layout.
A Look Back at 2025 | Thunder Mesa Studio ThunderMesaTrains 2026-01-01 | Happy New Year! It's time for our annual look nack at all of the builds, projects, and railroad adventures from 2025. From San Lorenzo to Thunderbird and everywhere in between, I got a lot more accomplished than I thought I did! Please enjoy this retrospective and I'll see you all in 2026.All the best to you and yours,DaveThunder Mesa track plans: thunder-mesa.com/model-railroadsBecome a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
Get Your Tickets Here! | Thunderbird Route 66 Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2025-12-29 | Work continues on the On18 Thunderbird Route 66 roadside attraction themed mini-layout! This week I build the tiny ticket shack and marquee sign for Thunderbird's main entrance. Thunderbird is a 1950's, roadside attraction themed mini layout that I'm working on in collaboration with Gary Beatty and other modeling friends and we hope to have the whole thing finished by the end of April, 2026. Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Thunderbird Station | Thunderbird Route 66 Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2025-12-21 | Picking up right where we left off in the last video with more on the On18 Thunderbird Route 66 roadside attraction themed mini-layout. This week I check a few more things off the list with the construction of a small station for Thunderbird's train ride, and a smattering of other little projects that need finishing. Thunderbird is a 1950's, roadside attraction themed mini layout that I'm working on in collaboration with Gary Beatty and other modeling friends and we hope to have the whole thing finished by the end of April, 2026. There's nothing like a deadline to motivate you!Dave____________In this video: Corrugated roofing from Full Circle Models: fcmkits.wordpress.com3-D Printed details from Miniprints: miniprints.comBecome a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Where the Buffalo Roam | Thunderbird Route 66 Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2025-12-14 | I'm back to work on the On18 Thunderbird Route 66 roadside attraction themed mini-layout this week! Taking care of a few odds and ends with various projects like building a sturdy pen for Thunderbird's resident bison, painting the 3-d printed buffalo, and finishing up the Teepee Village with LED lighting effects for the campfire and some awesome details from Thunderbird collaborators Gary Beatty and Robert Kurner. Let's hit the road!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Rainbow Peak Micro Layout Complete Build! ThunderMesaTrains 2025-11-09 | Here's the full build of the On18 scale Rainbow Peak micro-layout that I built between January and April 2025 as part of Gary Beatty's "Paint Bucket Challenge." Just 12" in diameter, this tiny layout was inspired by Cascade Peak and Rainbow Caverns on the old Mine Train Thru Nature's Wonderland attraction at Disneyland. The ride is long gone but the good memories live on, and I do my best to recapture those with tiny layout. The mountain itself was built from floral foam and the little On18 train uses rechargeable battery power to run so the entire thing can be self contained with no wires sticking out. Waterfall modeling, rock carving, scenery painting and more in this fun build!Dave____________In this video:PWM controller: ebay.us/m/b74Ra712v rechargeable Lithium Ion battery: https://a.co/d/hX7baVhMini pine trees: https://a.co/d/1dDxMQ8Chapters:0:00 Intro1:32 Disneyland inspiration2:03 Base, roadbed, track and wiring4:28 Building mountain scenery with floral foam5:57 How to do scenic painting8:19 Creating forced perspective with trees10:08 Simple wooden trestle bridges and track ballast15:35 Modeling creeks and big waterfalls24:43 Rotating base, battery power and PWM throttle 29:35 Modeling Rainbow Caverns blacklight effects33:15 On18 locomotive and cars39:56 Final finish and wrap upBecome a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Gary & Dave go to Thunderbird! | Route 66 Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2025-11-02 | Good times! Gary Beatty comes for a visit and we have a one-on-one work session on our On18 Thunderbird Route 66 roadside attraction themed mini-layout! This is the first time Gary and I have been able to get together in person since starting this collaboration and, amazingly, we were actually able to get some good work done between the shenanigans. This time out, we install the great models that Gary has been working on for the layout and take Thunderbird's new On18 "steam outline" locomotive for a test drive. Then we mess around with a sound module from ITT products before taking a deep dive into Thunderbird's restrooms. Don't worry, they're clean! It's the next best thing to a '50s roadtrip on Route 66!Dave____________In this video:Terminal strip: https://a.co/d/86YtQcl9v DC transformer: https://a.co/d/ikRwPyUBecome a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Thunder Mesa Track Plan Update | On30 Thunder Mesa Model Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2025-10-27 | I've been back to work on the good old Thunder Mesa Mining Company layout and thought it high time to share the most recent plan and show how everything fits together in the studio. It has been something of a difficult puzzle to solve and the plans have gone through several changes over time. This latest plan shows the new wye section connecting the layout to the On30 Goldfield & Calico, and gives a preview of what's just around the bend in the deep and dramatic Canyon Section with its tall bridges and towering rock formations. I've packed as many of the old favorite scenes and features as possible into the new plan while still allowing plenty of room for us 1:1 scale humans!Thanks for watching, amigos!DaveThunder Mesa track plans: thunder-mesa.com/model-railroadsBecome a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
M T Graves: Undertaker | Goldfield & Calico On30 ThunderMesaTrains 2025-10-18 | This week, I reach back into the Thunder Mesa archives to resurrect a dead and gone structure from the old Gruesome Gulch Railroad project! Calico needed an undertaker shop and it tuns out the one designed for Gruesome Gulch fits the bill perfectly. I make a few significant changes this time around - including the addition of a "roaming ghost" effect behind the upper story windows. The M. T. Graves Undertaker Shop comes back to life in Calico just in time for Halloween!Thanks for watching!Dave____________3 RPM 9-12v DC motor: https://a.co/d/aIpGsy4Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library
HOn3 Barlow Pass Layout | High Country Train Station ThunderMesaTrains 2025-10-12 | It's time to freelance a station for Barlow Pass! This week, I kitbash an old Model Masterpieces structure kit into a high country narrow gauge station that helps tell the story of my little slice of Colorado. I combine details inspired by the Rio Grande with some existing kit parts and some imagination to create a unique and distinctive structure that looks like it could have existed somewhere on the D&RGW system - but really didn't! This is my favorite kind of build and I take you through it step by step.Empire Trackworks graciously provided the custom, hand-built HOn3 turnouts for the layout. Check them out at empire-trackworks.comThanks for watching!DaveIn this video:Dioramo Lighting System: dioramo.com____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy of YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Vintage Trailers & Red Rock Scenery | On18 Thunderbird Mini Layout ThunderMesaTrains 2025-10-05 | Gary Beatty and I have been making great progress on Thunderbird, our Route 66 roadside attraction themed mini-layout! In this installment, we take a look at some of the fantastic models Gary has been working on for the layout, including a scratchbuilt 1947 Airstream trailer! Then it's time to carve and paint the Arizona red rock scenery that forms the base of the layout. Join us for another roadtrip to Thunderbird!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, creative commons license.
Wiring Wyes & Juicing Frogs | Thunder Mesa Model Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2025-09-27 | It's time to get trains running again on the On30 Thunder Mesa Mining Company layout! In this installment, I wire new and old parts of the layout for reliable DCC operations, then add an auto-reverse unit to control electrical polarity on the new wye in a way that's quick and easy. Frog Juicers from Tam valley Depot are added to provide uninterrupted electrical power to all of the turnouts and, last but not least, I hook up a wireless throttle from NCE to power the layout cable-free. It feels great to have trains running again on the old layout!Thanks for watching, amigos!Dave____________Frog Juicers and more from Tam Valley Depot: tamvalleydepot.comDCC systems from NCE: ncedcc.com ____________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/thunderm...All music courtesy YouTube Audio Library, Creative Commons License.
The Hotel Mojave | On30 Goldfield & Calico ThunderMesaTrains 2025-09-21 | The Hotel Mojave was inspired by a real structure in Calico, California - with a ground floor made of adobe bricks and an upper level of weathered wood siding. It's a perfect fit for a difficult corner of the layout and helps to blend the scenery with the backdrop. I had a lot of fun building this run down relic of the Old West with it's many interesting textures and desert weathering, and I hope you enjoy following along with the build. I cover a lot of ground in this one - from modeling the adobe walls to creating an interior set and lighting the structure with LEDs.Thanks for watching!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaAll music courtesy YouTube Audio Library
HOn3 Barlow Pass Layout | Track, Turnouts and DCC Wiring ThunderMesaTrains 2025-09-14 | This week, I get down to business on the HOn3 Barlow Pass layout, putting down some cork roadbed, laying flex track and custom turnouts, and wiring everything for DCC power. Along the way, I demonstrate how to control model railroad turnouts with inexpensive slide switches that move the points while providing power routing to the turnout frog. My little slice of Colorado narrow gauge is well on its way!Empire Trackworks graciously provided the custom, hand-built HOn3 turnouts for the layout. Check them out at empire-trackworks.comThanks for watching!DaveIn this video:3M Scotchlock Connectors 22/14 AWG: https://a.co/d/07QW0PXMini Slide Switches: https://a.co/d/9rWFBWYXuron Flush Cutting Rail Nippers: micro-tools.com/products/xur-2175b____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic:"Jeremiah's Song" by Dan Lebowitz - YouTube Audio Library"Country Cue" and "Rocktop" by Audionautix - YouTube Audio Library
Quick Look | HOn3 Barlow Pass Track & Wiring Test ThunderMesaTrains 2025-09-14 | DCC track and wiring test using Empire Trackworks turnouts and Micro Engineering code 70 flextrack. Electrical slide switches are used to throw the turnout points and route power to the frogs. The locomotive is a Blackstone Models C-19.empire-trackworks.com
Welcome to Thunderbird! | Route 66 Mini-Layout Collaboration ThunderMesaTrains 2025-09-07 | It's time to let everyone in on the fantastic Route 66 themed mini-layout I've been working on in collaboration with Gary Beatty! It's the mid-1950s and the little roadside attraction of Thunderbird, Arizona is riding the postwar boom times on old Route 66. This place has it all - an authentic Indian trading post, live reptiles, real buffalo, and more souvenirs and curios than you can shake a rubber tomahawk at. And, of course, there's even a train ride! In addition to collaborating with Gary Beatty, we've also brought a few other notable modelers on board like Jake Johnson, Robert Kurner, and the dude himself, Scott Carter. In this first episode, I make a good start on Thunderbird, building the scenic base and laying some On18 track for the train ride.Hop in everybody and buckle up - this roadtrip is just getting started!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic:"Greaser" - YouTube Audio Library"Pickup Truck" by Silent Partner - YouTube Audio Library"Get in the Car and Go" by The Unicorn Heads - YouTube Audio Library"Country Cue" by Audionautix - YouTube Audio Library
Quick Look | Thunder Mesa No. 8, The Bob Gurr ThunderMesaTrains 2025-09-03 | Thunder Mesa locomotive No 8 is a modified On30 Bachmann Stearns-Heisler. Named the R.H. Gurr in honor of Disney Imagineering legend, Bob Gurr, this rugged and reliable engine is a favorite of Thunder Mesa crews. Here are some clips of the locomotive in action on the original Thunder Mesa layout.Thanks for watching, amigos!Dave____________________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic: "Cowboy Sting" by Kevin McCloud - YouTube Audio Library
The Rainbow (Ridge) Connection | Thunder Mesa Model Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2025-08-31 | Boy howdy do I have an update for you! I'm back to work on the reimagining and rebuild of the On30 Thunder Mesa Mining Company model railroad and this week sees the addition of an entirely new section of layout: "The Rainbow Ridge Connection." It's an 8 square foot addition that packs a lot of operational and scenic potential into a modest footprint. We go from idea to benchwork to actually laying track and making a start on some scenery. Many old favorites from the original Thunder Mesa layout find a new home on this section, including the Rainbow Ridge structures and Thunder Mesa's riverboat, the Canyon Queen. Along the way, I show how I lay down cork roadbed, build my wye track, add ground throws for the turnouts, and much more!Thanks for watching!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic:"Parkside" and "Jeremiah's Song" by Dan Lebowitz - YouTube Audio Library"Country Cue" by Audionautix - YouTube Audio Library
Flynns Photo Gallery | Goldfield & Calico On30 ThunderMesaTrains 2025-08-24 | It's been too long since I worked on the On30 Goldfield & Calico and too long since I've scratchbuilt a structure - so let's do both! I was inspired to build this frontier photo gallery while looking through a book of vintage Western photos and going down the rabbit hole on C. S, Fly's Photo Gallery in Tombstone, AZ. Here in Calico we've got Gustav Sampson Flynn, well known as a chronicler of the “Great American West”and noted for his images of cowboy life, steam trains, and the American Indian. As the made-up story goes, Flynn lived long enough to see California’s motion picture boom of the late teens and early twenties and became a prominent booster of Calico as a Western movie filming location. This was a fun build and I really enjoyed piling on the details! Thanks for watching!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic:"Straight Weather" by Silent Partner - YouTube Audio Library"Country Cue" by Audionautix - YouTube Audio Library
HOn3 Barlow Pass Layout | Narrow Gauge Water Tank ThunderMesaTrains 2025-08-16 | While I await needed supplies to begin track-laying, we can get a head-start on structures for the HOn3 Barlow Pass project. In this installment, I build a Durango Press D&RGW water tank kit, depicting a Colorado prototype from 1900. It's a step by step build with lots of tips, tricks and finishing techniques you won't find in the instructions for this popular kit!Barlow Pass is my little slice of 1930's Colorado narrow gauge in a roughly 4x8' corner of the studio. Empire Trackworks graciously provided the custom, hand-built HOn3 turnouts for the layout. Check them out at empire-trackworks.comThanks for watching!Dave____________Become a Thunder Mesa Studio Member on Patreon! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a channel member on YouTube!youtube.com/@ThunderMesaTrains Thunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic:"Daley's Reel" and "Lost Native" - YouTube Audio Library"Country Cue" by Audionautix - YouTube Audio Library
Quick Look | On18 Calico Mountain ThunderMesaTrains 2025-08-09 | Let's take a ride through Calico Mountain with the Calico Mining Co, the On18 mining line on my Goldfield & Calico model railroad! This quick look features two scratch built On18 locomotives, No 5, the H.D. Ryman and No 6, the Bud Hurlbut. Though the track actually runs on two separate levels, we get a run over the entire mountain with both locomotives through the magic of editing. You can follow the ongoing Calico Mountain and Goldfield & Calico project right here on YouTube: youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3eO09JFpNL-4RdWgHrC7v37k2S6iZpitThanks for watching, amigos!Dave____________________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic: "Horses, Trains" - YouTube Audio Library
Quick Look | On30 Gruesome Gulch Railroad ThunderMesaTrains 2025-08-08 | Here's a quick look at the On30 Gruesome Gulch Railroad, my spooky Halloween coffin shaped layout from 2022-23. The GGRR now resides in the hands of a private collector, but you can watch the entire build series here on YouTube: youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3eO09JFpNL9rBntvrzo_RQVjlFFWT12MThanks for watching, amigos!Dave____________________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic: "Happy Haunts" - YouTube Audio Library"Spooky Ride" by Twin Musicom - YouTube Audio Library
Quick Look | On18 Bandit Canyon Railway ThunderMesaTrains 2025-08-08 | Here's a quick look at the On18 Bandit Canyon Railway, my 24x36" layout project from 2023-24. The BCRy has since gone off to a hew home but the complete build is preserved in a series of videos right here on YouTube! youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3eO09JFpNL-PW-OZ4kPM-9SHcp1fWYeeThanks for watching, amigos!Dave____________________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesaMusic: "Western Spaghetti" by Chris Haugen - YouTube Audio Library
Quick Look | San Lorenzo Mini Layout On30 ThunderMesaTrains 2025-08-08 | Here's a quick look at the On30 San Lorenzo mini layout, featuring trains and structures by the late Verne Niner. This was my project layout for the 2025 On30 Mini Festa Fiesta and I did a complete series of build videos: youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3eO09JFpNL8mOdBP6fscLDh3kNeUgIJHAll sound effects were recorded live on the layout.Thanks for watching, amigos!Dave____________________Become a Thunder Mesa Member on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and members only parts and details from the builds! patreon.com/thundermesaOr become a member on YouTube!youtube.com/channel/UC2JtlZ2I6X4o1eFKSdJaMsw/joinThunder Mesa Studio: https://thundermesa.studioInstagram: instagram.com/thunder.mesaSpreadshirt: shop.spreadshirt.com/thundermesa
