BLW FAQ

How Do I Get My Project to You?

The shop is located in Maryland just north of Washington DC. If you aren’t local, we can coordinate a hand-off. I go to a number of train shows in the area and on the East Coast/Mid West where I can pick up and drop off projects. Mailing work to me is OK, but please Contact BLW before sending in work.

As far as completed work goes, I prefer to do a similar hand-off, though if we need to mail it, I use only UPS or FedEx.

What Do You Charge?

For information about my shop rate, estimates, and parts pricing, please Contact BLW.

A typical job is structured like this: I will give you an estimate, then send an invoice for parts over Quickbooks. This is followed by an invoice for labor and shipping (if required) when the job is complete.

If preferred, I can also charge one lump sum at the end of the project. Whichever works for your budget better, please let me know.

Do You Work on Models Other Than Locomotives?

Yes I do! I have worked on every part of the layout, from wall socket to locomotives and rolling stock. I can tackle any project you have. Contact BLW to discuss your project with me.

Do You Guarantee Your Work?

Dead Rail Installs: Yes! Dead Rail installs are self-contained systems. So long as the wires are connected correctly and the engine is used within reason, the work is guaranteed. If there are signs of improper use or tampering with the work, then that work will not be guaranteed.

DCC Installs: DCC Installs are done at your own risk! There are a number of factors that can burn out a decoder on a DCC install. I have seen a number of boards get blown out from shorts caused by derailments, locomotives having connector pins connected in reverse while track power is on, and power surges or bad wiring overloading a decoder. I cannot guarantee my work on your layout. You will be provided with a video of your engine running from the shop. If you have a layout that burns out decoders, you may want to speak to the manufacturer of the DCC system.

Have a Question Not Listed Here?

Contact BLW for answers!