Blog - Dream Trains - Model Trains

Swap meets and fairs for 2026

We are aware of the following swap meets and fairs in 2026, in South Africa: 07 February 2026 – EMRIG, Benoni 28 February 2026 – NTMTK, Voortrekker monument 28 March 2026 – PMTC, Pretoria 18 April 2026 – Edgemead Town Hall 01 May 2026 – Bloemfontein (Cars in the park) 30 May 2026 – EMRIG, […]

Why use a CDU?

Why a CDU? A capacitor discharge unit (CDU) is a device used to throw point motors with a solenoid in, protecting it from “burning”. We sell Peco point motors that operate with a solenoid. What is a solenoid? A solenoid has a moveable ferromagnetic core with a helical coil around it. Once a current passes […]

Kit Assembly – Frateschi Country Station – FRA1526

The Frateschi Country Station is an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned model builders. All Frateschi kits are available at Dream Trains. While these kits may require some work for parts to fit properly, and will benefit from additional painting for enhanced detail, they offer a solid foundation for your layout. What you will […]

Marklinofsweden – Martins Town

In our search for good video tutorials, we came across Marklinofsweden. He has quite a few videos, but we decided to start with his series videos on Martins town. One of the things that attracted us to the videos is the fact that he uses a lot of everyday items to create a stunning layout. […]

New model from Dream Trains

We have been working behind the scenes and released a new model in HO scale towards the end of 2022. The model is 3D printed in South Africa, assembled and finished by Dream Trains. The XBJ-10 cement tanker is available in SAR and Spoornet livery. Both liveries are available with Kadee and Frateschi couplers.

Kit Assembly – Frateschi Water Tower – FRA1512

The Frateschi Water Tower kit is a great kit for new and experienced model builders. All Frateschi kits are available from Dream Trains. These kits need some work done for parts to fit perfectly and will need some paint for further improvements. What You Will Need: Sharp hobby knife. We use Excel hobby knifes and […]

Kit Assembly – Frateschi Platform and Roof – FRA1502

The Frateschi Platform and roof kit is a great kit for new and experienced model builders. All Frateschi kits are available from Dream Trains. These kits need some work done for parts to fit perfectly and will need some paint for further improvements. What You Will Need: Sharp hobby knife. We use Excel hobby knifes […]

Luke Towan – Realistic Scenery Series

Luke’s Youtube channel and Website for more videos. Realistic Scenery – Volume 1 In this video Luke shows the steps to creating a realistic diorama landscape next to a railroad. These techniques can be used on your layout using similar products to create some awesome looking scenes. Realistic Scenery – Volume 2 In this video […]

Two new models from DTM (Dream Trains Model) – HO scale

We have been working hard at two new models from DTM, manufactured by ourselves. The one model is the STJ rough timber wagon and the second model is the SC open car carrier. Below a quick glimpse at the finished STJ rough timber wagon, vacuum brakes. Class ST wagons entered service in 1978 and are […]