Glossary - W

Walkaround cab A cab or throttle that is handheld and connected by a cable to a plug connected to the cab bus at multiple points around the layout. Memory-equipped walkaround cabs allow a train to maintain speed and direction while the cab is unplugged from the cab bus. Walkaround control A system that allows the model railroad operators to walk along with their trains. Walkaround railroad A railroad you can walk around in the course of operation without having to duck under any part of the benchwork. Walkaround controls may be built into the benchwork. Water column A standpipe adjacent to the track and connected to a water supply for filling steam locomotive tenders. Weathering Making shiny new models look more realistic by dirtying them up to simulate road grime, the action of sun and rain, and general evidence of use. Welded rail Real rail sections that have been welded together to eliminate track joints. Also called continuous rail. Wheelset A pair of wheels connected by an axle. Wheel stop A wedge shaped device mounted on the railheads to keep a car from rolling off the end of a track. White glue An adhesive primarily for joining wood and paper materials. Wireless cab A handheld cab that has no cable connection to the layout. Wireless cabs use infrared or radio waves as a method of transmitting information. Wireless cab base A base station for one or more wireless cabs. Connected to the command station via a cab bus. Wye Type of turnout where the two legs curve away equilaterally, forming a Y. Also a triangular track configuration for turning a locomotive or a train or for joining a branch to a main line for operation in both directions. Wye switch A turnout that diverges equally in both directions.

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